10 reasons to embrace this cold snap

It has been a chilly welcome to our new year. As I dress for the frozen tundra of Ohio, it is evident I almost look incognito with little or no flesh exposed to the elements.

There is an elaborate system to each layer of comfort. As a matter of fact, it is almost comical as I attempt to move about the farm like a penguin.

With little or no flexibility, I am forced to slow down my normal pace and, for my own entertainment and attitude, I am thinking of what is good about this cold snap.

So for your humor and entertainment, I have composed my top 10 reasons on why this cold could be worthy of some positive thoughts. As an extension educator, I can assure you these thoughts are based on extensive research and feedback from my constituents.

10. Gone are the pesty flies and hungry mosquitoes that plagued me in the warmer months when calf milk baited them to swarm in for a taste.

9. There is no worry over whether the coveralls make me look fat. Who cares.

8. One of my layered shirts says, “I am a tuff old bird.” No one can see it, (because I do not need to invite further comment) but it gives me encouragement to forge ahead.

7. There is no need to locate a rubber band or clip to tie up my hair. That 2 inches down my neck is welcome insulation and that translates into warmth baby!

6. I can wear my coveralls into the local Dollar General on errands and I do not begin to smell of the barn till I thaw — and that takes awhile.

5. My commute to work does not involve tons of traffic or honking drivers, just a dog that is over playful and the sound of crunching snow.

4. There are some beautiful, photographic moments of icy whiskers on the muzzles of cows and baby calves catching snowflakes in mid-air.

3. At least I do not live in Michigan!

2. The joy of coming into the warmth of our home is a blessing I should not take for granted, especially when my hands warm up.

1. It is farm life and as tuff as the elements are, I am much closer to nature and a spiritual life than 75 percent of all US citizens.

Although I may have provided some comic relief, I also raise a toast to the caretakers who brave the elements to provide care and compassion to their herds.

You deserve additional praise for you truly are the most interesting people in the world and not that guy in the beer commercial! Stay safe my friends.