While here in Gulf Breeze we are enjoying mostly pleasant weather, it is still very cold. The television keeps bombarding us with footage of various 20-inch snowfalls in numerous Midwestern states.

Naturally this reminded me of the many years I enjoyed the snow and ice in my home state. I can't say that I remember any years when the interstates were backed up for miles, but a 10-inch snowfall was good for weeks of great sledding on Pennsylvania's real hills.

Every day after school I went to a favorite hill and enjoyed belly-flopping with the local gang of kids. This consisted of walking a short distance down the hill and, when one of the boys came past on his sled, we tomboyish girls would leap onto the prone figure passing at high speed to catch a ride to the bottom of the hill. The impetus of our suddenlyadded weight made the sled move even faster, and with the ice crystals from the snow rushing back in our faces, it became an exhilarating ride.

After the ride there was the fun of walking up the hill exchanging wisecracks and witty remarks. I really enjoyed having all these great rides without having to bring my own sled from home!

I hate to admit it, but those Flexible Flyers were much better than my own Lightning Glider in every way.

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Hey, did you know there are supposed to be four servings in one small pint of ice cream? Check the package label and see for yourself, if you don't believe me. And each half-cup serving can set you back at least 250 calories. In other words, eating a pint of ice cream usually costs you at least one thousand calories. Remember that the next time you reach for a pint and a spoon.

It's sad, but maybe you should consider having a popsicle instead. That's only about 25 to 50 calories, according to the Hope Heart Institute.

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Before saying anything to anyone, we are advised to ask ourselves three things: Is it true, is it kind, and is it necessary? If it doesn't meet all three requirements, don't say it.

**** Baptist Health Care reminds us that age is the greatest factor in cataract formation. A cataract is a clouded lens, which is directly behind the pupil. Your eyes' lens focuses light on the retina to produce clear sharp vision.

Progression of cataracts is slow. Several factors, such as the sun's ultraviolet rays and cigarette smoke can contribute to their formation. By age 65, most of us have the beginnings of a cataract, and by age 70, 65 percent of us show evidence of one.

Not all those people will need surgery, only those whose vision is seriously impaired.When the vision impairment interferes with normal functions, it is time to consider a surgical solution with your ophthalmologist.

*****

Here's a quote from Murphy's Law:

"Beauty is only skin deep, but ugly goes straight to the bone."

Makes me wonder what Mrs. Murphy looked like . . .

See you next week.