sub zero

Tim just left to go pick up Will from Camp Roosevelt, where the Boy Scouts worked on their Camping merit badge. Will and another boy planned to sleep outside to satisfy some sadistic requirement, why he couldn't have done this when we lived in a more hospitable climate I don't know, but I think the low was predicted at -2F. We have been through a cold snap with highs around 0F and lows some nights down to -15F. It took me a while to figure out that I should tuck in my shirt when running, the wind just snuck fright up underneath my jacket and shirt. My poor tummy was red with cold even after taking a hot shower. I found out that skin turns sort of rubbery when exposed to such bitter cold, my mittens had to stay on even if I was sweating, to protect my hands from frostbite. 

I was so concerned that I bought the kitties a heating pad for their bed in the barn loft, finding them the next morning both curled in it, practically on top of one another in their quest to stay warm. Unfortunately, we haven't had any more snow and there isn't enough left from 2 weeks ago to ski or sled. So we have all the uncomfortable aspects of winter, but none of the perks. However, we are managing by spending lots of time quilting, knitting (Maggie's new hobby), and playing games. Before we know it the air will warm up, the grass will start growing, and the garden will be ready to plant peas. But for now we are huddled together for warmth and staying close by the fire.