Even most of us who prefer winter to the hot, humid summer are not especially fond of temperatures in the single digits. Arctic air has now settled over the Midwest and it was 7 degrees F as I walked to work this morning. But, with little wind, dry air and both Venus and a crescent moon hanging in the southeastern sky, it was a pleasant, invigorating stroll.
While humans are not naturally equipped for cold weather, most people who despise winter do not dress properly to enjoy it and spend too much time staring at thermometers or listening to dire weather forecasts. Those who venture out (with warm, layered clothing and common sense precautions) are rewarded with solitude, broad vistas and active wildlife. Besides, a taste of the Arctic deepens our appreciation for those plants, animals and humans that live and thrive under such conditions.
Our current deep freeze should resolve quickly as the frigid air mass moves off to the east and southwesterly winds begin to moderate our temperatures. By tomorrow, we are forecast to reach 40 and, by the weekend, a spring-like thaw will invade Missouri.
