How to Deal with Negative Numbers

Here in Minnesota a November with routine highs of 60 or more, spooky in its warmth, lulled us into thinking that winter would once again be a non-event like those in the recent past. Scant snow and chilly days, nothing really COLD. You know, the type of weather that comes with bragging rights. Let's just say the month of December reminded us, and not so gently, of what winter deals to those who live in the north country.

Granted, this morning's low didn't set a record, but -20 degrees, not including the windchill of -31, is not a pleasant way to greet the day. Even ensconced in the warmth of home the bitter temperature brought back memories of a very frigid weekend once spent at the cabin.



How to Deal with Negative Numbers


Sixteen below, pines up to their knees in snow,
and tucked into the trees a thin-skinned cabin.

The fire in its belly a half-lit sputter, listless
as a hibernating bear. Under comforters
hip-aching cold despite bodies close as velcro.

Come morning the siren's song
of a false sun. Snowshoes hung in the hall
hover with the reproach of friends ignored.

One night outside and our coddled car surrenders.
Next a search for jumper cables, nearby neighbors.

The price for help: a locals' jibes
as we juice the motor. "Nothin' but a bunch
of trouble ..." "If you didn't drive such a sissy import ..."

The gravelly voice no match for the twinkle in his eye.
The offer of coffee better than an extra sweater: the cold
no longer a bottomless crevasse.



Marilyn Aschoff Mellor