A “Polar Vortex” brought us brutally cold temperatures that were much lower than we’ve seen in years. Then a warm-up brought the threat of flooding from the sudden melting and breakup of ice on the creeks and river. Now that the temperatures are going back down to freezing or lower, I feel colder than ever! I am glad that there was minimal effect from the sudden thaw, and it did give me a chance to fill up the bird feeders (again!) and take the Christmas lawn decorations out of the ground. I do wish we had reason to have at least some lights up until spring the streets look so bleak and dark now. Maybe I could find some lighted snowflakes . . . hmmm.

One of the things that few of us enjoy about this time of year is the task of gathering the papers and documents necessary for filing our local, state, and national tax returns. With a child in college (and the resultant tax credit) my husband is not as disgusted with the job as he has been some years, but it’s still not a favorite way to spend a few evenings.

If you are in need of forms or instruction booklets, I know the post office usually has federal forms, but you can also find most of what you need at the Hughesville Area Public Library. They have a table just inside the main doors and are gradually receiving their annual supply. As of last Friday (January 10) only PA forms were ready for distribution, but they expect to receive the federal forms soon. You may want to call ahead to be sure before you go there. Of course, the library staff members are always happy to have you visit, no matter what your purpose may be! There are many new books as well as old favorites and classics to savor, and with your public library card you may check out your choice of hundreds of movies on DVD for a free four day loan period.

If you haven’t seen the boys or girls winter sports teams in action yet, make it a point to check the schedule and head over to the gym! There are always surprises in store, and it’s a great evening’s entertainment. Besides, the kids really appreciate your support. Go watch today and in a few years these same young people will be helping build up our community!

It’s the time of year when I start watching for local church soup sales and dinners. There are many local congregations that can help stock your freezer with tasty meals and treats. I don’t want to appear to play favorites, and fear that I will miss some groups if I tried listing every such fund-raiser, but I always check for ads in the Luminary or East Lycoming Shopper.

Stay warm and keep your cupboards stocked we seem to be having a winter with frequent storms and I love it when I don’t have to make extra trips in the snow or ice.

Hughesville Events

Friday, Jan. 17, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Pre-school Story Hour at Hughesville Area Public Library. Visit or call the library at (570)584-3762 to register. The library is at 146 South 5th Street, Hughesville.

Tuesday, Jan. 21, GHBA meeting, 7 p.m. at Edward Jones Office, Silk Mill Complex, Railroad St., Hughesville.