Can you say chilly!

So… the upcoming weekend is a big deal.

First of all, it’s my birthday again, though to be honest, as the years fly by I don’t really consider it to be that important anymore. The real significance, however, is in that right around this date every year, the average temperatures in Maine hit a seasonal low, and more importantly, they then start to rise again!

Initially, any change in temperature might not be that noticeable, and I am under no illusion that winter is ending anytime soon, but still, it’s a big deal. This whole week looks like it will be colder than cold, and even as we get ready to transition into February and hopefully “warmer” average temperatures, I have no doubt that we’ll be plunged right back into another deep freeze before long. However, much like how I derive comfort from the ever so slightly longer days after the winter solstice, the fact that the mercury will be on the rise again… that matters!

This morning’s temperature bottomed out at a quite delightful -20 degrees Celsius (that’s -4 F), so as you might imagine, I debated even taking Oliver out for a walk. Pre-dog days, the possibility of me venturing outside in such frigid winter weather was absolutely non-existent, but now… well, who could resist that cute little face and that busy little tail wagging from side to side?

The low-angled sun was bright, though not warm in the least, as we embarked on our arctic stroll up and down a couple of the local golf course fairways. Though much shorter than normal due to the potential for frostbite from the windchill, our walk was brisk, and as always, the kid had a ball. The bitter cold didn’t seem to bother him one bit. Me… I’m looking forward to the weekend and the beginning of the slow but welcome temperature climb toward warmer weather.