Well, despite the recent unseasonably warm temperatures, I think it’s fair to say it feels as if winter has arrived. Single-digit temperatures these past few days, mixed with the elusive wind chill factor, slapped me in the face rather quickly — reminding me how brutal a Midwestern winter can be. I guess I don’t mind the cold temperatures too badly, however, I’m not a fan of snow and ice ... or driving in it.

That last statement seems so out of character for me, for I was one of those invincible teenagers who along with my friends used to go out in the deep and drifting snow ... just to see if we could make it. My how times have changed! Would you call that getting older ... or maybe getting more sensible ... or maybe just realizing broken bones don’t heal very quickly now and car insurance claims ultimately cost a lot of money in the long run?

Oh well ... just be safe out there on the roads ... and even in the parking lots and on the sidewalks, since they can be pretty slick. Dress warmly, and make sure you check on older neighbors, friends and family. Your four-legged friends need extra attention during the winter too.