Living in a house that was originally constructed before 1900 allows one to experience the fun of discovering the many variations on ?square? and ?plumb? that lurk in corners and underfoot. Those variations can also translate into openings and spaces through which ?Old Man Winter? can insert his icy blasts. It’s quite a job to discover the source of the newest draft! Still, I am grateful that central heating and insulated windows have made today’s discomforts merely trifling when compared to what must have been faced by those who lived through this type of winter in decades past!

We seem to be making up for last year’s mild winter. I think we’ll all remember what this winter was like. Do you think the groundhog will see his shadow and encourage us with a prediction of an early spring? I seem to remember that last year his expectation was not exactly accurate, but it’s still fun and Punxsutawney Phil will be the center of attention, at least for the morning of February 2.

Shortly after his appearance and prognostication is confirmed, I expect that most media coverage will shift to the New York City/New Jersey area where the NFL’s Superbowl XLVIII will be taking place that evening. I’ll be watching the game, but I have no chance of winning this season’s NFL pool in our family. Once again, two of my daughter’s-in-law are the leaders going into this final weekend; I look forward to trying again next year!

Regardless of the weather conditions, there is always a need for our local blood bank to replenish supplies. Many of us are not able to perform the jobs of medical staff or emergency responders, but one way you can help with relief efforts is to donate blood.

Hughesville events

The American Red Cross will sponsor a blood collection drive on Monday, February 3 at Trinity Lutheran Church, corner of Main and Academy Streets, Hughesville. The Red Cross asks that you call to schedule your blood donation at 1-800-733-2767.

Hughesville Area Public Library has a couple of popular events for children scheduled for early February. February’s Pre-school Story Hour will be held on Friday, February 14.

On Saturday, February 8, the Library will hold a Valentine’s Day Craft session 1:30 to ?3:30 p.m. for kids in grades K-6, The library staff requests that you call 584-3762 to register for each event.