YIKES! It is still in the 30's this morning and dropped as low as 25 overnight. I understand that many places have much colder temperatures however most of them are more prepared.

Warm clothes and heaters are all but gone from the store shelves. The news this morning was filled with tragic stories of fires resulting from people trying to stay warm. Our shelters are setting records for the number of days they have been open and people are being rescued after foolishly using barbecue grills to heat their homes causing carbon monoxide poisoning.

The cold weather up north filled up our hotels and resorts but unfortunately the cold weather here has frustrated tourists and they are checking out early. Some of the attractions have cut their hours or closed completely until it gets warmer.

The impact on our farmers is yet to be determined. They are working throughout the night to keep the strawberry and oranges okay.

On the happy side the sun is shining. We don't have day after day of gray skies and that seems to help moods. Mother Nature is certainly dishing out challenges for people and the economy as we start this new year. I hope where ever you are you are warm and safe and have the opportunity to have a marvelous Monday.

If you have any warm clothes not fitting in your closet remember to pass them on. It is a great time of the year to clean out your closet and donate to shelters, Good Will and the Salvation Army.

I am headed to do my own drop off and then to the mall to walk in their warmth as I continue my quest to increase my stamina and decrease my weight. My hair is slightly more than stubble now so I can wear my baseball cap and my skull doesn't show in the back - yeah! I am happy.

May you have reasons to make yourself smile.