The Weather Ride: A Winter Tale in Iowa
Laughter does not have to come from a major source. It could be ... relatively minor.
I’ve never been fond of roller coasters. However, in my late twenties, driven by questionable logic and peer pressure, I finally decided to confront my fears and ride one at a bustling amusement park in Des Moines. The ride flipped my seat upside down, making my hair stand on end. Although it was terrifying, I quickly found myself sitting upright in my seat again. The elevated railway continued its steep ascent toward the bright blue sky, followed by a rapid descent. My screams probably echoed two counties away as we whipped around sharp turns, only to repeat the entire process.
This winter has felt like a similar thrill ride. I started the season with mild temperatures and was ready to break out my flip-flops. But as I got comfortable, the weather changed drastically, plunging to sub-zero levels. Then, just when I was warming up to the idea of a brisk walk, the temperature began to fluctuate wildly. One minute, we’re basking in a cozy forty degrees; the next, I’m bundled up like an Eskimo preparing for a blizzard.
Overall, things haven’t been too bad. The weather could have worsened, and sure enough, it did! I used to envy those snowbirds heading south for the winter, but now I see them struggling in the unexpected cold and snow. Suddenly, I’m feeling fortunate to be here! That was until I overheard someone say, “If you don’t like the weather in Iowa, just wait five minutes — it’ll change.”
I’ll need to keep my winter coat and flip-flops on standby, ready for anything. It’s like living in a weather-themed soap opera — every day brings a new twist! Who needs cable when you can watch the skies entertain you with their unpredictable drama? The sun breaks through the clouds one moment, quickly followed by chilly winds, leaving everyone guessing what outfit to wear.
www.wintersetmadisonian.com
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