So — the “ inclement weather plan”is in place here at the old folks’ home this morning. It’s a bit white out there, about 20º. What’s happening all day is what’s called freezing rain. I was unclear how that is different from the ice storms I remember in Oklahoma where we called it sleet and it built up on wires bringing them down. But information these days is right at out fingertips:
“Freezing rain develops when the raindrops do not have time to freeze before hitting the ground. The water then freezes once it hits the ground, making a layer of ice. Sleet is when frozen precipitation melts as it falls through warm air and then refreezes before it hits the ground.” Who knew?
Monthly Archives: January 2024
To Resolve: To Decide Firmly on a Course of Action
In New Years past, I used to come up with a word or two to be my focus for the year. I never wrote it down or told it to anyone. One year it was “be present.” One, it was “let it go.” One year it was “really listen.”
I think the typical plan is to make a list of things you hope to accomplish. Exercise more. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Walk every day. Read more. Lose ten pounds.
Unfortunately, these resolutions are often stated in the negative: Don’t eat fats. Don’t eat sugar. Don’t drink caffeine. Don’t talk about your aches and pains. Don’t gossip. Don’t watch Hallmark movies.
In recent years, my resolutions have taken a turn: Don’t eat anything that’s not delicious. Don’t spend time with people who bore you. Don’t remember things that are better forgotten. Don’t finish a book if it doesn’t engage you in twenty pages. Do not watch cable news.
Whatever you decide, whether to make New Year’s resolutions or not, my advice is to grab a bit of joy anywhere you can find it. Pet a dog. Feed the birds. Read a good book. Grow flowers. Smile at people who don’t smile back. Eat something delicious every day.
2024 has 366 days. Seize each one.