Call it the winter season survival plan, cold weather enlightenment approach, or whatever, the raw truth is, we normally get a true winter season here, and if you don’t like it, then you’re living in the wrong part of the country. The once over-used term “global warming” has wisely been replaced by “climate change” by much of the media, following last winter’s hammering of the Mid Atlantic states … states that only occasionally get true winter weather. I’m pretty certain many people in those states would agree with the terminology change after last winter’s record-breaking weather there.

However, we of the northern Appalachian Plateau see winter weather every year, albeit some winters are more severe than others, but even so, cold and snow are the norm for us for at least a few months every year. There are those that dread it and those that welcome it. The difference between the two groups is the former sees it as a hindrance, while the latter views it as an opportunity to enjoy unique activities that are only available once a year. Many are avid snowmobilers, skiers and ice fishers, some also continue to hunt small game and predators through the end of their legal seasons, and still others enjoy walks to take in or photograph the wintery landscapes.