Christmas

Monday, January 12, 2015

I Could Have Been...

A Meteorologist!!  Today we had a wintry mix of sleet and freezing rain, that is now changing to just rain, as the temperature rises to above freezing. A look outside shows a very dreary atmosphere, but at least it won’t be the black ice we had last week.

I used that title because I think I’m learning way more about the weather than I ever thought I would! Around here, there’s such hoopla about the climate changes that you’d think it was something earth shattering. I’m sure that not all of the country adds such drama to weather reports – in other areas, they just accept the weather and move on. Now I’m not talking about the terrible storms – ice, snow, flooding, tornadoes, etc. – that warrant attention. But I don’t think that other areas are constantly watching every flake that falls! Last year, when we had weeks of snow, the weather people would commandeer the TV stations to show all areas and how much snow had fallen. We’d see regular reporters all day long, positioning themselves in front of snow mounds, seeming to be blowing away, and wearing gear more suitable for the South/North Pole! Every Instagram and selfie would be shown, and people were interviewed outside the local convenience stores! Seriously?

Today, the news broadcasts began at 4:00 A.M., and no, I did not get up to watch. What can possibly be so interesting about ordinary winter weather? I will say, though, that when I am subjected to the constant barrage of reports, I do try to learn something. Last year, my new word was virga. That means precipitation that evaporates before it reaches the ground. It shows up on weather maps as rain, but it never becomes wet. This year, I learned that graupel means ‘soft hail,’ or frozen precipitation that surrounds a falling snowflake and looks like little white pellets. The weather people have taught me about sun dogs, and I now understand about polar vortices. See – I really am a life-long learner!

The only knowledge I really need on days such as these is the fact that it’s cold and wet! That translates into my once again remaining inside. Yesterday, although it was cold, I still went outside and went to church. I wore my heavier parka, had my Aran knit scarf wrapped around me, along with the matching mittens. Hats bother me, so I just scrunched down into my scarf. I had my boots ready, but I never put them on. The car was pre-warmed, and it’s just a short walk from the car to church, so I wasn’t chilled at all. Now, I’ll just stay warm inside for a few days.

I hope that none of you are suffering from the weather, and I hope you join me in looking ahead to spring!! (Maybe I’ll put up my counter again!)

Peace,

Muff

12 comments:

  1. Hi Muff -same exact weather here in Connecticut!! I will be staying home, reading and staying cozy. Skipp is going to have to get the oil changed in the car. All is well, so to speak. How are you, really?
    Love Gail
    peace.......

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    1. Good news -- it's going to be in the 40s by the weekend!!

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  2. The 24/7 weather stations have to justify their existence somehow and I guess people love drama.

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    1. I'm talking about the regular network local news!! And no, I don't like the drama.

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  3. I do think they all over react these days. I don't ever remember wind chills and feels like temperatures!! If it's 10 degrees, it's 10 degrees....it's winter, it's suppose to be cold and don't even get me started on this whole polar vortex thing!!

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    1. OK -- so we seem to be in the same frame of mind!

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  4. Freezing here but we will warm up at the end of the week then it will be icy. Can't win some days:)

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    1. I think ice is far worse than snow -- it's sneaky!

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  5. Pretty cold here too. I stay in on days like this!

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    1. You and I both!! I'm waiting for cabin fever to set in!

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  6. hi muff, I think longwood has that rule because they feel the conservatory is too crowded and they interfere with others being able to enjoy the exhibits. it was not crowded at all but I also "get it"!!! I am selfish when it comes to selfies!!!!

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    1. Well, I could see if you were impeding someone's progress, but a few photos? Come on. Anyway, I love your pix -- keep them coming!

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