We are reaching the point in time with this event that we have to settle into to doing more meteorology, and a bit less model-olgy... I am not saying stop looking at the models, but starting spending some time comparing short-range model trends with what the actual surface and upper-level plots re showing? Take a look at SPC meso plots every couple of hours and see how those plots align with the modeling solutions for the same time; note trends and differences between the actual data plots and the modeled solutions, at several levels (sfc to 500 mb).
As it relates to the sleet issue, the one thing I have learned over the decades, is the strength of arctic air masses is often under-played by the modeling; the attack and overwhelming of the air mass is often over-played. That is often the case with arctic air masses of less intensity than this one!
So yes, enjoy looking at all the new runs of the model suites, but pretty soon you (everyone, this not meant for Tip) need to start checking on real-time trends not only across New England, but also the Mid-Atlantic, Southeast and Deep South areas, and see if the reality of the current weather jives with the modeled solutions... The bottom line is, enjoy this event...