Everybody talks about the weather....

All of us are impacted by what we get....snow, ice, bitter cold...and in the warm season it's wind, warmth, rain and thunderstorms. 

When you get rain on your picnic it's really disappointing, but for almost three decades I must always pack up much sooner than I want because chances are it's getting bad somewhere and I must stay aware of it. 

When storms show up anywhere from Rockford to Milwaukee to La Crosse to Dubuque, I must always monitor the situation and even leave where I am in order to arrive at work in time for TV coverage.

The worst is when damaging or even deadly storms blow through, and I'm at the helm guiding the Weather Authority ship through the wicked seas while my wife and daughter ALWAYS ride it out, at home, alone.

Family has always come second to weather.  It's not because I want it that way, but the job requires that it be so.  It's rather sad to know that's true.

If the weather is great, I'm right there beside you or attending events with you; however, when the crap hits the fan it seems to spray all over me with no regard to if I'm dirty from cutting the grass or dressed up to attend an important event.

We all talk about the weather...we are all impacted by weather, but only a chosen few must sacrifice many pleasures in life to watch the skies in the name of keeping everyone safe. 

There is great reward in that, but also some regret. 

Someday, I'll probably get my chance to watch a big lightning show on the horizon or hear the loud thunder while sleeping without worry or concern.  The only thing I'm sure of is it won't take another thirty years to get to that point.

You're about to begin your big fun season, so I may not see you as often.  You know and I know too that I'll be here when you need me.

David