It was probably my second or third winter here… winter was hard and cold. The cows were out on the BLM where they’re allowed to stay until January 15. If conditions were bad: deep snow, no water, no feed, frigid cold…we would bring them in early and start feeding them hay. That one winter… it was -55*. Yeah, you heard that right, fifty five below zero. I can’t remember if it was in December or January, but I do remember asking Vernon if I needed to ride along. Yes, on horseback – no pickup, no four wheelers, no side by sides – and believe me, riding a horse in cold weather isn’t particularly fun. I’ve led my horse more often than riding just to stay warm. But that -55*, Vernon said I could stay home… I love that guy!
Why do I bring this up?
Because Megan sent me pics while I worked at the library January 15. They were gathering on a gorgeous, sunny day.

Only light jackets required. I told Megan to write it down… this January memory might be her version of my -55* day. It may never happen again.

What a lovely day for her, and what terrible weather you had to compare it to!
There’s quite a difference in our winters now. I can’t imagine -55 at all,
even though I experienced -35 once in college (very northern NY above
the Adirondacks). With no wind, it was bearable. But I really can’t fathom how explorers managed to survive Polar expeditions at all…or ranching/farming in the US before modern machinery and central heating.
But each day is a gift, no matter what the weather!
Unbelievable. It has been quite warm here in Duncan,Ok also. Carol ,you guys are tough. I don’t do well in cold at all so I salute you guys who can get out in the -55!