[AT] test Now cold and tractor cabs

[Greg Hass]

Here in Michigan we have had the worst winter in over 40 years. In fact, 
I HATE WINTER.  We have averaged at least 15 degrees below normal since 
mid November. When I planted my last field of wheat they said I could 
plant for 2 more weeks yet. However, after I planted we had only one 60 
degree day and all the rest were 40 or below.  I think most of it came 
up but what did got no fall growth so we will see in the spring if it 
makes it.
As for weather, I think we have had only one day above freezing in the 
last two months. For three weeks now, night temps have been at or below 
0 and day time has been between 5 and 20 degrees. The same is forecast 
for the next week or so. I am also getting sick of moving snow at least 
3 times a week. In fact, I have to go clean again tomorrow. For some 
reason, almost all of our winds have been from the southwest which has 
never happened in my memory. The way my place sits, my yard is protected 
every direction but south so the yard gets blown shut every other night 
as well as I have had to clean the mailbox at least 15 times already 
compared to once or twice in a normal year. My method of cleaning is a 
small skid steer (23 hp twin cylinder Honda engine) with only a back 
window for weather protection. The front is open and the sides are 
expanded metal. I suppose I could cover the sides with pieces of carpet 
but then its hard to see. It's amazing what that little machine can do 
but with all the blowing snow it takes a lot of time. The past two years 
I only have had to clean twice a year and then I could have gotten by 
with once but the machine was out so I tidied up.
As for heat, I have a corn furnace. The past 5 years have have used 
under 5 ton of corn a year. This year I got 4  1/2 ton and it will be 
gone in 2 more days. I haven't decided whether to get more corn (which 
at this time of year is a huge undertaking or just go with oil heat the 
rest of the winter. I have heard that LP is as high as $5.00 a gallon, 
and a couple of people with guaranteed pricing got a fillup and were 
charged $2.50 a gallon over their contract.
And finally; winter projects. Every fall we will say; well that's a 
winter project. I'd like to know how, with most nights around 0  or 
below and daytime of around 10 degrees. Plus, for the first time in 
years all my buildings a surrounded by 4 feet of snow. Even in my shop I 
have things in the way that belong in other buildings but I can't get to 
them to get them out of the shop. Yes, as some would say , it could be 
done but I am old enough that I have fought a lot of bad weather and am 
just not willing do do it unless I have to. The only up side to this is 
that I got rid of all livestock about 15 years ago so at least I don't 
have that battle to fight.
       Greg Hass