Last week, as I braved the raging, frigid wind to go into the post office, my friend Howard offered some encouragement. “It’s just a little bluster,” he said.
He was right.
We North Dakotans are a tough lot. Even the transplanted ones from California like Tom and I have toughened up.
We know how to dress. We know when to stay home and what to avoid. Words we know are layer up and windchill.
Tom worked long and hard this week on our Christmas decorations. He knew to layer up before going out in the cold, and he got the job done. Looks great. I appreciate the effort he makes to keep our place looking good in all seasons.
This is my second time living in North Dakota in winter. Back in the 80s, I worked for the Golden Valley Co SCD. Once in winter, when the supervisors and staff needed to attend an out-of-town meeting, I offered to drive. I had a full-size van back then and could take everyone. Long story short, I hit ice on the interstate, spun that van around a couple of times, and landed in the median ditch. I look around to see a cargo of men who had lost confidence in me. When my boss Dale offered to get me out of the ditch and drive us the rest of the way, I readily accepted.
That’s another life lesson. If you feel less than confident and someone else offers to help – let them. No shame in wisdom. I wonder how many of the guys remember that yeehaw ride on the ice?
Life is good today. ■