Beech Tree News Network

Our winter weather has been from one extreme to the other. We’ve seen bitter cold with ice and snow as well as spring-like temperatures – sometimes with thunderstorms. Not being a meteorologist, I depend on weather forecasts; otherwise, I’d simply have to wait and see.

Two predictions for winter weather were made well before the season arrived. The 2018 Old Farmer’s Almanac predicted that Kentucky would be mild and wet: “This winter is forecast to be much colder than last year’s, but—just like last winter—not colder than usual….Precipitation will be at above-normal levels throughout the country, which will translate to equally above-normal amounts of snowfall in parts…” (https://www.almanac.com/content/winter-weather-forecast-2017-2018). Another prediction was made in October, 2017, by WLKY Meteorologist John Belski. He went into the woods behind his Southern Indiana home, searching nature for signs to predict the winter weather. Belski’s prediction was that our winter would be colder than last year’s (https://www.courier-journal.com/story/weather/local/winter/2017/10/12/20...). Based on the winter weather we’ve had to date, both predictions have been fairly accurate.

Daniel Martins with the Digital Reporter described how to dress for Canadian cold weather. He said, “Don't be in denial about how cold it is. If you have to go outside, dress appropriately” (https://www.theweathernetwork.com/news/articles/your-complete-guide-to-c...). Martins’ comment is fitting for a Kentucky winter, and he listed the following tips:

 - Synthetic and wool fabrics provide better insulation.

 - Dress in layers with a wind resistant outer layer.

 - Wear warm socks, gloves, a hat and scarf in cold weather. Be sure to cover your nose to protect it.

 - If you get wet, change into dry clothing as soon as possible (https://www.theweathernetwork.com/news/articles/your-complete-guide-to-c...).

These tips are common-sense ways to take better care of ourselves in cold weather.

When the winter weather forces us to spend time indoors, our entertainment is more limited. I spoke with a few friends about how they spend their time during bad-winter-weather days. Their replies fell into five categories: (1) watching movies or binge-watching programs, (2) playing games or working puzzles, (3) crafts, sewing, adult coloring, or a hobby (4) cleaning or organizing, and (5) doing some chore (a repair or a new task). Some mentioned having less energy on these days and being less active, so many seemed to rest.

Liza Lapira said, “Winter makes me want to rage,” and Hal Borland said, “No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn” (https://www.brainyquote.com/topics/winter). In a few weeks, winter will end, and spring will emerge. Meantime, I’ll watch the weather forecasts – winter’s not over.