As December ends with the holidays, the dreadful January through March period starts to roll around with its cold and irritable weather. People normally associate snow and cold weather with December, but that’s not always the outcome. Living in Illinois during the January through March period is probably one of the most unpredictable and dreadful times.

For me, it either has to be cold and snowing or sunny and hot to be enjoyable; there is no in-between. In January and February, it’s mostly always snowing or in the negatives. During those two months, it’s not just light snow; it’s heavy snow with icy roads, which are never safe to drive on. For March, that’s a whole different story. March is most known for its fluctuating temperatures, from one day being 1o degrees to the other being 40. Not only does the temperature frequently change, but so does the harsh weather. If you’re lucky, March will bring rain, but if you’re not, it can quickly turn into snow, which will soon turn into slush. Just as you thought it would be a normal spring in Illinois, it backfires.

The weather also has a big effect on people, from their mood to what they can do in a day. Most people want to go out with their friends and enjoy the day, but how can you do that when it is always cold or raining? In the summer, me and my friends go to the mall and walk around. Although once when winter hits it’s not the same since you have to wear layers upon layers, and still feel uncomfortable.

Not only does the weather stink during this period but so does school. Winter break just ended and the second semester has begun, but there’s nothing to look forward to until spring break. Whereas, the first semester is filled with pleasant weather and more school events, such as football games and homecoming. For me, it seems I am more motivated for school in the first semester than I am in the second.

Not only during the winter, Illinois weather can fluctuate to extremes at any time of the year. The winters are harsh and desolate and keep us inside most days. Just like animals hibernate we too stay in a dormant phase waiting for the crocuses and daffodils to show us summer is right around the corner. So, I’ll be staying inside until the weather gets 75 and sunny.