Groundhog brings us back to a cold reality

It's virtually the same every year.

That darned groundhog peeks out and predicts six more weeks of winter and a collective moan can be heard far and wide.

Even for those among us who are overly fond of wintry weather, it's that magical time of year when we all say "enough already."

Yet by now we've learned that Mother Nature is fully in control and our ability to change the weather to our liking simply ain't gonna happen.

Have you visited a retail store lately? Spring attire and Easter goodies are already on full display. I sometimes think these merchants are just rubbing miserable weather in our collective faces.

After all, who in their right mind is interested in balmy spring attire when the wind chill is in the single digits?

We live in southeast Missouri and the sole guarantee is that our weather can be highly unpredictable. But we have an assurance that February will more than likely bring weather similar to January and that alone is reason to remain inside, snug and warm while we lament the frigid outdoors.

Last week, when the sun got confused and offered the hope of improved weather, I began to contemplate golf and yard work and planting flowers and an assortment of Spring activities.

But then -- and I blame it again on that darned groundhog -- the reality hit when single digits returned.

Two of my offsprings were in California and Hawaii last week and used the opportunity to emphasize the beautiful weather they were enjoying. I mentioned that their conversation might assure their omission from my will and they became quickly quiet.

So here's what is left to us: We can complain and endure frostbite and cold vehicles and bulky coats. But nothing can induce Mother Nature to change her wicked ways and send us spring weather in February. Our best bet is to hope that March is acceptable and April amazing.

But for now, I would welcome the global warming that has the liberals all abuzz.

I mean let's be honest. Where's that climate change when you need it?!