The end of January in Palmer

Jerky Weather—It’s been a crap shoot dealing with all the weathers surrounding us. We have had such a variety of storm warnings for hurricanes, flooding, snow, wind, icy pellets, and excessive rain. It is impossible to dress properly because different clothing is needed for each different event. At the doorway are lined up 8 kinds of footwear—Icebugs, snow boots, rubber boots, grips, sorrels, and tennis shoes. There are also fancy shoes which don’t even receive a second look in this time of year, along with flip flops. Most people’s cars and offices have a variety of footwear stored up just in case.

January Phenomena—In addition to weird weather, we have some plants waking up, including some poppies, primroses, pansies, forget me nots, and daisies. Mushed grass, abundant dog waste, drowned vehicles and forever lost garbage cans are also true indicators of this strange weather. People report that grumpy and confused bears may be wandering and that mosquitoes, moths, beetles and black house flies are seen.

Denali Wars—It is always a wonderful thing when we pay attention to our most beautiful and largest mountain. But sadly a name change is making our mountain political. Each name has an army of supporters; resentment and great offense are taken at either name’s mention.

Palmer Arts Council—Friday night was the Annual Palmer Arts Council dinner. It was packed. Music was offered by Aaron Peatross and Todd of Wood & Wire. Good food was offered by Turkey Red. Artwork was provided by Palmer High School IB art students. And good company and good plans were offered by the enthusiastic audience and supporters.

The Year of the Snake—This is the major Chinese New Year this week. The Lunar holiday is technically when the new moon is near the midpoint between winter solstice and the spring equinox. There is not much celebration of this mythologic event locally—except in cultural or geography classes. However, it’s a big event for a large portion of the world’s population. Fortunately Alaska and Palmer specifically have no snakes. However the Snake symbolizes wisdom, elegance, and intuition. People born in the Year of the Snake are often seen as resourceful, self-reliant, and determined to overcome challenges. This year is expected to emphasize careful planning and strategic thinking, reflecting the traits of the Snake's personality.In China, snakes are often called the ‘little dragon’ very shy and hides in grass but is also selfless, ambitious, honest, righteous, and foresighted. If you wish to celebrate read up about the holiday, wear red, spread good wishes to your friends and family. And definitely go eat wonderful Asian food.

Barbara Hunt is both Palmer writer and artist. She works hard to keep the robust pulse of Palmer, Alaska. She shares the good stuff in the weekly Palmer Alaska Buzz Column in the Mat Su Valley Frontiersman and daily on the Palmer Alaska Buzz Facebook Group. Contact at bhunt@mtaonline.net or text 907.315.3222.