The calm before next week’s storm: Diane Dettmann on February 27, properly layered up.
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AFTON, MINNESOTA, FEB. 27 I’ve lived in Minnesota my whole life and survived many winters—some of which I actually enjoyed. [See “Icicles in Their Hair,” Diane’s tale of childhood Christmases in Embarrass, Minnesota, “The Cold Spot of the Nation.”] This year the polar vortex rolled over the state and we’re experiencing one of the coldest, most brutal winters on record. No matter where you go—Fleet Farm, the local grocery store, or church—this winter’s weather is the main topic of conversation.
So far this winter, we’ve had 57 inches of snow (the usual: 40). Last night, wrapped in a blanket, I sat in my favorite chair listening to the 40-mile-per-hour wind gusts roaring past the window, wondering, “Why in the world do I live in this frigid state?”
I guess that over the years, like an animal hibernating in the winter, many Minnesotans, including me, have devised creative ways of coping with the bitter wind-chills and sub-zero temperatures. In case you’re planning a trip to Minnesota any time soon—or, heaven forbid, planning to move here—the following list might change your mind.
Strategies for Enduring a Minnesota Winter
California painter Julia Kay thought her three-year Daily Portrait blog was just for her. But since then, it has meant much more, for her life, her art, and for her community (including us.)
As always, my children and husband have enriched my emotional education and taught me some things about Thanksgiving.
"Who's bringing breakfast tomorrow?" I asked. The tiny hesitation before her answer told me that my relief had been premature. I closed my eyes even before her words were out. "Uhm, Mama? I forgot to tell you..."
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Toni, This was a very tough winter for Minnesotans, including me. Three generations of my family have lived in Minnesota. My grandparents came from Finland in the early 1900s and eventually settled in Embarrass, Minnesota, often named the coldest place in the U.S. I attribute my Finnish “sisu”-determination and perseverance- for my ability to survive and even enjoy these rugged winters. Today, I did my daily 2 mile walk/run for the first time without the chains on my tennis shoes! I think spring’s on its way. 🙂 We’re already researching warm weather escapes for next year! Let’s hope next year the winter’s better in Seattle and Minnesota!
Diane, I get a chill reading this! Though Seattle is never so cold, this winter was colder than usual and dry. I had dreams of spending a month or two in a warmer clime. You Minnesotans are made of tough stuff!
Sounds like a wonderful plan, Linda! We are seriously thinking, if this year is any indication of future winters in Minnesota, we might high tail it to somewhere warm next year. Today we’re headed for 30 above zero, a heat wave. Enjoy that Tucson warm weather.
Diane, We ran away from home! Yes, we bailed on our fellow Minnesotans. We drove down to Tucson, AZ and arrived here last Tuesday just barely missing the Titan storm. I knew you would want to know Rog, me and our two Golden Retrievers arrived safe. We are planning on sitting out the cold weather until the first of April, or when you give us the “all is clear” signal so we dare return. We acclimated to the 80 degree weather immediately. Trak and Dakota want to know how to shed their fur coats as they don’t need them here, and they really miss the snow. But since their vote doesn’t count on this matter, we are staying put for a month.
Tuomas, I’ve heard that this winter’s been very mild in Finland. The past few winters in Minnesota had warmer temperatures and less snow, which made it easier to get out and enjoy the season. This year we’ve had 49 days of subzero temperatures and many days of double digit below zero wind chills that made even a Finlander like me stay inside. 🙁 I love walking and getting out in the brisk winter air and find it very invigoration. If next winter’s as brutal as this year, maybe I’ll move to Finland! Kiitos for leaving your wonderful comment!
Diane, I would love your weather (except 40-mile-per-hour wind). It’s been quite the opposite here in Southern Finland. February is normally the coldest month. This year the temperature has continually been above zero. There’s nothing to do outside. No skiing, because there’s no snow; skating can be done only inside; no ice-fishing, because sea ice is too thin. It’s been hardest for children, who cannot even do sledding. Everyone is wondering, most complaining, this unwinter. I’ll move to Lapland, or Minnesota, if this trend continues next year!
Leslie, I’m sure your golden retriever would enjoy playing with you in the snow here. You just have to be careful not to fall down. I tried making a snow angel one day, had so many layers on I could barely get up!
Southern Oregon sounds wonderful, I spent time with my aunt and uncle in Oregon years ago. We went deep sea fishing off the coast. Loved it. Thanks for the suggestion!
My golden retriever would love your weather, if I could bundle up enough to go out and play with him in it!
If you want to avoid snow and temps below freezing next winter, come to the southern Oregon coast for the winter. It’s a little-known bastion of temperate weather (and many retirees)…and you get to enjoy the ocean!
You’re so welcome, Fiona! I guess weather’s all relative. Excited that it was 4 above zero this morning, I bundled up in my layers and did a mile walk just to get out. Now it’s snowing again. Can’t win. Thanks for sharing your insights!
From this moment, I promise to stop complaining about the ghastly weather in Manhattan this winter. Thank you for the perspective!
I hear you, Sally, loud and clear! I’m freezing all the time even with multiple layers top and bottom and the thermostat cranked up to 70+. Usually I’m able to get out and walk everyday in the winter if I wear my chains. This year I’ve missed more days than ever. With double digit windchills it’s just too cold! Sending warm thoughts your way.
Here in Connecticut, we’ve also has 50+ inches of snow. I’ve been living in the same 4 or 5 sweaters, a great pair of jeans, and boots. I work with one eye out the window, like many people.
A thousand times — like every night — I thanks the goddesses for my electric blanket. Other than my car with the heat blasting, it’s the only time I’m warm!