KBO, as Churchill might have said

Cork is delighted to see ground showing up through the snow at the side of the driveway

Everyone I have talked with this past week, whether they are in the U.S. Midwest or here in Northwestern Ontario, is universally sick and depressed about this long winter! It just doesn't seem like it will ever end.

When things like this happen I often think of a little-known saying of Winston Churchill. "KBO," he would say at the end of every telephone conversation. "Keep Buggering On!"  In other words, hold on, keep going. It's always darkest before the dawn.

Spring will really come and soon. In fact, there are signs of it already -- longer daylight, if nothing else. No matter what the air temperature is, solar gain is melting all the darker surfaces.

We see a lot of SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder here and right now is when it is most prevalent -- the end of winter. If you or someone you know is feeling really depressed about how winter is dragging on, don't be afraid to tell your family and friends about it. You might also want to talk to your doctor. It is a serious problem that won't get better unless you talk about it.

There are some things you can do to make yourself feel better too such as getting out of the house, visiting greenhouses or conservatories -- maybe even the mall -- or any other places with green or flowering plants. Have friends over for dinner. Go to the movies or a play. Maybe you can even take a trip to visit someone. Pick up the phone and call someone you haven't talked to for a long time.

Make up a schedule of things to do each week, even if you don't "feel" like it.

We're going to beat this winter if we just stick together.

KBO!