It's a Dry Cold

 You know how people talk about the summer heat in the southwest or desert part of the US as being not as bad as the heat in the more wetter parts of the country?  How they say the high temperatures are more tolerable there because "It's a dry heat" with low humidity?

Well, right now the Midwest is in a cold spell.  So cold that the area schools (at least those of several counties around this little place here) are closed because it is 'too cold' to be safe for the kids to go to school.

I kind of get it, if you don't have adequate clothing (heavy coat, hats, gloves, scarves, boots, etc) for the winter temperatures.  That can be bad.  And unfortunately it seems that more and more parents don't provide their kids with insulated boots, warm coats, sturdy pants that block the wind, hats, gloves, etc.  My feelings on that lack are rant-worthy.  However, that's not what I'm posting about today.

Because if you do have adequate gear, these zero and sub-zero temps aren't all that terrible.

I actually like these temperatures (barely above zero this morning when I was out doing chores, with moderate wind bringing wind chill to around 5ish below zero) better than when it's in the mid thirties or the forties here.  

Because it's a dry cold.  

There's no component of dampness, and I stay warmer in my layers in frigid air than I do with warmer temps, less layers and higher moisture in the ground and air around me.  Layer up, and keep moving; that's the secret.

Despite the 'dangerous' cold today, I'm wishing I was outside on a pair of cross-country skis.  It's a great day for gliding around, enjoying winter.