In Like a Lion...

I think one too many people observed we were having a mild winter. Over the weekend, Mother Nature emphatically reminded us who's in charge. Winter isn't over until it's over. Millions of plump snowflakes created a heavy, fluffy snow which clung beautifully to tree branches. Since I didn't need to drive anywhere, I could enjoy it from the comfort of my cushy easy chair while sipping a cup of hot chocolate.

My old Indy-boy used to love a snowy day. Now he's easily confused. This means I pull on my boots and troop out to fetch him back inside whenever he loses his way. Let me tell you, snow clings better to fur and hair than it does to tree branches. Even after a towel sweep off we're both pretty damp. Snow is pretty, but I'm looking forward to the fresh yellow-green of early spring. I sure hope March intends to go out like a lamb.

Of course, kids adore snow, no matter what fuddy duddy adults say about it. Watching them sled down the hill behind our house until their cheeks and noses are bright red, can't help but make me smile. I think being around children helps to keep oldsters like me feeling young.

Speaking of being around children, I recently wrote a story about my two grandsons which appears in this month's Sasee Magazine. If you have a moment, I'd love for you to pop over for a read. Please consider leaving a comment, if you are so inclined. Here's the link. Sasee is an awesome magazine for women and I bet you'll enjoy flipping through the pages.

Well, yippy-tie-yie-yay, here it is. March has arrived!

An Open Letter

Dear Whomever Is Still Singing and/or Dreaming About a White Christmas,

It is now February. Please stop.

Thank you,

The Critter Alley Crew

Are You Ready for Sno-maggedon?

It's on the way. Weather forecasters are telling us a substantial snow will be starting tonight and continue throughout tomorrow. We could see up to 10 inches before it's all over. But wait! There's more!

On Monday, our "high" temperature is supposed to be only 0 (zero) degrees, thanks to a polar vortex (yikes!) sending arctic air straight at us. This will bring the coldest temps we've had around here in more than a decade. On every channel, the weathermen (or weather ladies) are so excited they can barely contain themselves. There's nothing like a weather calamity to demonstrate what real troopers they are. Each one smiles giddily while orchestrating a tag team of non-stop weather broadcasting. I suppose it's the weather people's version of the Boston Marathon...pushing, pushing, pushing all the way to the finish line.

I've come to the conclusion that snow days have morphed into yet another holiday. We talk about them, plan for them, and get so excited we run to the grocery store in anticipation, because everybody knows you can't enjoy a holiday without plenty of good food. Consequently, store shelves that once were bursting with bread, milk, and chili beans have been picked cleaner than a Thanksgiving turkey.

My pantry is full and I have several good books to read. I'm ready to hunker down and enjoy a bit of our Sno-mageddon holiday. I hope you are, too.

And while you're hunkering, remember snow and frigid temps are NOT critter-friendly. Please bring in your pets and put out some food to help birds and other wildlife make it through the storm.

Brrrrrr! Baby, it's gonna get cold outside!

A Perfect Weekend to Read

Over the last two weeks I think we've gotten more snow than we have in the last two years. It's pretty, but I don't enjoy driving in it. Too many hidden slick spots for my taste.

I suppose in the big picture what we're experiencing is a good thing. Last year we had almost no snow or rain. Plants dried up and the brown grass crunched underfoot. I like to think our snowy days are putting us on the right track for a beautiful spring and summer. That's makes a slick spot or two easier to take, doesn't it?

If you're snowed in this weeked, perhaps you'd like to read a few delightfully romantic short stories. Cupid's Quiver is a collection that contains my story, The Blue Book of Love, along with stories from many talented writer friends. Cupid's Quiver comes in a Kindle edition as found here. If you don't have a Kindle, you can download a free Kindle app on your computer.

The stories go perfectly with a cup of hot chocolate. What a great weekend to read!

A Brief Message About Spring

Despite the annoying fuzziness provided by my cheap telephoto lens, this is most definitely a robin seen in the trees of our backyard today.

I always thought these fellows went south during winter, and returned to be our first sign of spring. Either this bird is confused, my calendar is wrong, or the legend is incorrect.

A little research educated me. It appears that some robins do migrate. Others hang around. The difference is attributed to food sources rather than the need to keep warm. 

I learned that a robin's favorite winter food just happens to be berries (note where he's perched), and despite the heavy ice encrustation, he gobbled down several.

Bottom line: I'm sorry to report that spring is not arriving anytime soon. Seeing a robin is no more an indicator than what we get from Punxutawney Phil the groundhog. Or the local weatherman. Or any other oracle, for that matter.

Despite who (or what) we consult, spring is going to arrive when she decides to come.

And not one single minute before.

Snow-megeddon?

The only way to walk safely today is slowly...with eyes firmly fixed on the ground.

We've got a glaze of ice, with quite possibly more to come. Once the sleet and freezing rain moves out, the weather wizards have warned us of snow that could range up to a foot or more. They're saying it may be a storm for the record books.

Needless to say, this dire news sent people racing to grocery and home supply stores. By Sunday night, the shelves in most places were Old-Mother-Hubbard-bare, as evidenced by photos that were posted on television and social network sites. Food, candles, batteries, generators, ice melting chemicals...anything related to cold weather disaster preparedness quickly left the building.

Today my office closed at noon. That's a rare event and goes to show just how seriously the predictions are being taken. Sprung early from the office, my colleagues and I scurried and skidded to our cars. I think we all felt a bit like kids who'd just seen their school posted on the Closed Due to Weather List. Even scraping ice off car windows didn't dampen anyone's spirits.

It's still not clear exactly how this will all play out. Could we have a true wintry disaster or just another storm in the ongoing saga of our lively winter weather pattern? The next 24 hours should tell the story.

At home things are feeling cozy and relaxed. I'm cooking, getting a few loads of laundry done, and tapping out some words on the computer.

Like Scarlett O'Hara, I'll worry about the weather tomorrow.

A Day at the Saint

On Saturday, Hubby and I made a run to the St. Francis. For those of you new to Critter Alley, we own a very small piece of property on that gorgeous granite bouldered river, and enjoy spending time there whenever  possible. What with the busy holiday season, and bad weather galore, it's been months since we've been able to check on things. So when the weatherman predicted Saturday as an in-between-all-the-snowstorms day, we took the opportunity to get things done at the river.

We were lucky. The temperature rose to over 32 degrees. What little snow lay on the ground (snowfall has been much lighter there) soon began to disappear.

The landscape is still dotted with many trees down from the terrible wind shears of nearly two years ago. We're slowly getting them cut and split. Santa brought Hubby a new chainsaw, and it got quite a workout. We won't run short of firewood anytime soon!

Winter dampness permeated everything. It took a little doing, but soon the first campfire of 2011 blazed warm as an old friend.

We burned leaves, brush, and scrap wood. The heavy smoky scent rolled through crisp air, reminding me of how good it feels to spend time outdoors again. Spring is one day closer.

But whether it's spring, summer, fall, or winter, the Saint always looks beautiful. Here's a few shots of her cold weather face...

As you can see, a critter or two used the snow covered frozen edge of the Saint as a pathway. It wasn't Indy. We left him behind. He's still not speaking to us.

Once daylight turned to dusk, we packed up our equipment and headed for home. Despite the stiff aches and pains of muscles that haven't been used in a while, we felt good. Spring is coming, and our day's ritual of preparation is the first step.

Lady Spring...I know she's lurking at the edges of all this cold, snow, and ice, watching and waiting to work her magic. I've missed her. How I'm looking forward to seeing that woman again!

(Another) Snow Day

Mr. Frog gives his weather forecast: "Ninety-nine percent sure we have snow."

All the signs are there.

Yes, even the front yard has been hit by Old Man Winter.

So, being a good Doggie Mom, I troop outside in my winter boots and heavy robe, sweeping a path for Indy. After all, he's got very short legs. Snow would be mighty cold on his belly. I huff and puff, actually working up a sweat to make things easier for Indy. But that's okay. Nothing's too good for my little guy.

Finally, a path into the grass has been prepared. I put away the broom and allow him to put his dainty paws into the arctic area of the backyard. Here's what happens:

Seriously. I guess he prefers a cold belly.

This is the biggest snow we've had in quite some time, at least nine inches. Every school in the county is closed. You'd think my office would take a hint and do the same. Visions of staying in my robe all day while I write a snow-inspired masterpiece dance in my head.

But no such luck. We're opening at noon, so I better not get too comfortable. I'll be at work later today.

That is, if I can get out of my driveway!

Some Observations on a Snowy Night

Isn't it nice to know there's someone to keep an eye on you? Bogey is my shower snoopervisor, er, supervisor. He ensures that the water temperature is comfortable, that I scrub behind my ears, and that I don't take a slippery dive to the floor. What a helpful guy!

Meanwhile, I may soon need a warm shower. There's more snow on the way. Snow...the four letter word that none of us welcomes. It seems as though we've already had more than our fair share. Tonight the streets have turned white, and according to the weatherman, the heaviest stuff won't even come until later.

I look out the window and wonder at how even a small amount of snow seems to slow life down to a crawl. Outside the temperature is frigid, but inside it's warm and snug. It feels good to sip a cup of hot chocolate without even a thought of leaving the house. Tomorrow may be a travel nightmare, but tonight, things are good. I can feel my body literally melt into the couch.

And perhaps in today's world of bad news, stress-filled schedules, and frantic racing from one place to the next, the arrival of another round of snow isn't such a bad thing after all.

It's Cold and Flu Season...Again

Sniff. Achoo! Snuffle. Cough! Sigh...

For the last week, our house has sounded a whole lot like the waiting room of a doctor's office. Both Hubby and I have been held hostage to the clutches of some Exceptionally Obnoxious Cold that doesn't want to let go.

Only yesterday, a glimmer of light appeared for me. I felt much better. Didn't need to blow my nose half as much. Not a single sneeze jolted me. Then today...kapow! I'm not sure if it's the same bug that's returned just for the heck of it, or if a new one has arrived because it's so much fun to hang out with me. I hear that news travels fast among microbes. Isn't that what coined the term, "going viral"?

Anyway, I can always depend upon my good pals, Indy and Bogey, to help me once I retreat to the bed. Indy plasters himself to my backside, morphing into a furry hot water bottle. Bogey pushes his face so close to mine that his whiskers tickle my nose more than a persistent housefly. This, of course, does wonders to clear up a clogged sinus passage. Oh, the delights of cold and flu season.

But tomorrow is another day. And if I'm lucky, I'll soon be able to breathe without the assistance of Vicks Vaporub.

Uh-huh...It's Cold

Here's our backyard winter wonderland, complete with a path carefully swept clear so Indy doesn't have to be snowbound while taking a potty break. Now is that service, or what?

This little bird made his way on to our screened porch, thanks to the opening left in the door for Indy's convenience. With the door propped open, our little guest soon flew back outside, much to the consternation of Bogey, who had been salivating over the thought of a feathery brunch treat. Plans foiled, he threw me a dirty look and stalked away. It's undoubtedly a lucky thing that I couldn't read his mind.

Brrrrr. All I can say is somebody wasn't looking at the calendar. It's not officially winter yet, but you wouldn't know it by the view or the temperature. The wind is whipping us unmercifully with a truly icy blast that stings any body part not abundantly covered. These are the kind of days that make me happy for the excess fat I've been carrying around. Skinny people may look good, but they chill much more quickly without the extra insulation. Ha! I knew eating all those desserts at Thanksgiving had a worthy purpose.

But still I am concerned. Could the weather be a sign that we're in for a rough time this winter? Or is it simply a little taste of Siberia sent to remind us of how lucky we usually are in the Midwest?

Only time will tell. Meanwhile I'm going to turn on the heating pad and snuggle under the covers while I think warm thoughts. Hope you can do the same!

Groundhog Day 2010

Punxsutawney Phil, looking somewhat startled by all the commotion--Reuters photo

Six more weeks of winter.

That's the verdict from Phil, the hibernating groundhog pulled from deep sleep to give a weather prediction that's probably as accurate as any television weather wizard can give.

As a matter of fact, our local station broadcast the moment of truth "Live". (It is, after all, pretty darn important news) Perhaps weathermen around the world took notes as Phil looked at the crowd and studied current conditions.

He looked reasonably calm, despite the hub-bub that included more men in top hats than seen at a 1950's presidential inaugeration. And after a few minutes of being held up for the viewing pleasure of the crowd, a serious consultation was held between Phil and the hatted heads.

Suddenly the top top-hatter stood tall to read a proclamation that announced, "Six More Weeks of Winter!" A few disappointed observers booed at the news.

Hey folks, don't kill the messenger!

Now Phil's brief day in the sun (literally) is over. He can return to his burrow and snuggle down for a few more weeks of slumber.

H'mmm. Warm and comfy at home? I think Phil's got the right idea.

Black Bear Blues

Lily. Image credit North American Bear Center

Among the latest video crazes to hit the internet is the 24/7 recording of a female black bear called Lily, as she waits out winter in her den. It's her time to rest, living off the fat she's stored after a major summer/fall eating binge. Lily had to prepare for what's to come because black bears give birth during hibernation. And this well-watched Mama has entertained the world by doing just that.

Check out the webcam.

I'm sure the camera is catching information which will lead to a new understanding of black beardom. But I can't help feeling sorry for Lily during the process. Think about it.

Millions of viewers watched her every move as she went into labor. After delivering a single cub, the high-fives resounded. Never mind the tortuous birthing process which did not include one drop of anesthesia. Lily wasn't happy. It's been rumored that while giving birth she kept growling through clenched teeth, "He'd better not come near me again or so help me I'll...!". Ah-hem. You get the picture.

Meanwhile, viewers continue to watch while Lily nurses, cleans and otherwise cares for her naked, helpless newborn through numerous sleepless nights. No one brings her a midnight snack. No cubsitter pops into her by-now-very-untidy den to help out. There's no getaway night out with the girls. Nothing. Nada. Zero. Zip. Lily's on her own and she certainly has her paws full.

Never mind what the experts discover. I've already learned something from Lily's ordeal. It's the reason park officials warn us to be extra careful around bears after hibernation.

Because nothing can be more dangerous than a post-partum Mama.

Hello Deep Freeze!

Nobody loves a good frolic in the snow more than a dog in full warm winter coat. But keep in mind that in this brutal chill, shorter haired pups may need a sweater to protect them when they venture out. And even the hardiest of dogs (think Huskies and Bernese Mountain Dogs) should not be outside for prolonged periods of time. Frostbitten nose or cut paw pads...ouch!

Beware of anti-freeze. This sweet-tasting chemical often leaks from cars to garage floors, and is irrisistable to dogs and cats. It's also deadly. Contact your vet immediately if you think your pet may have lapped anti-freeze.

As I write these words our backyard birds are happily muching wild bird seed. Consider putting out food for your feathered friends. They need the extra calories to help them generate warmth. You'd better put out plenty because the squirrels will come to dinner, too. Hey, everybody deserves a little extra TLC right now!

Most of all, if you see an animal left outside...especially one with no place to take shelter, please contact your local animal control or humane society. Your action may save a critter's life.

Stay safe...and warm!

Wintry Weather

We had a surprise white Christmas this year. Though the weather forecasters predicted rain, we were instead treated to a fine, light snow on Christmas Day. It made for some slick spots on roads and contributed to a few accidents, but all in all we were lucky. The snow sparkled prettily, but didn't bring any festivities to a screeching halt.

Indy is pictured above wearing his warm sweater, a hand me down from the very first Schnauzer I ever owned. I don't dress Indy to make him look adorable (even though, of course, he is). Since he's an older gentleman now, the sweater helps keep his joints from getting stiff in the cold. In fact, just after I took this photo, a blast of icy wind blew snow in his face, so he ran for the door at the speed of light with his legs slipping and sliding every which way. But now he's warm and dry, cozied up by my feet as I type these words.

The snow is still falling and makes me shiver to watch it. Ahhh, winter. I think it's time to snuggle under a warm blanket with a cup of hot cocoa and good book. Lucky me, I got several new ones for Christmas!

May this find you enjoying similar comforts!