I should be used to it by now but each year I’m surprised and dismayed when it hits. One day it’s balmy fall and the next it’s below freezing. My preference for the seasons lands squarely on fall and spring and every year it seems both are shorter and shorter, with the sudden onset of the cold being the most challenging to adjust to and I’m sure I’m not alone.
While most of us are fortunate to have what we need, let’s all take the time to pay attention to our neighbors and make certain that they are doing okay. Do they have the firewood they need to fend off the cold? Do the kiddos running about have warm jackets? Many of the church organizations will assist those in need even if you are unable to. All you need to do is help them make the connection. Or if you feel uncomfortable approaching a neighbor, an earlier Secret Santa gift drop off of warm clothing would likely be greatly appreciated.
It’s also a good time to keep an eye out for our fourlegged friends. As I was driving through our towns last week, I noticed many domestic pets out and about, some from homes and others left to rely on the kindness of strangers, and with that comes some dangers. First of course is the cold itself. Make sure your pets have a nice warm, secure space to go to on these cold nights. Second, be aware of predators. Just last week coyotes were spotted in Joseph City and many a chicken was lost as a result. Sometimes there’s just no way to avoid that, but do your best to make it a challenge. It’s cold out, but it doesn’t need to be deadly. Let’s watch out for each other and make sure we are all safe and cozy this winter.
