Snowbound Billy

  • Published
  • By British Billy
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  It is in the British nature to moan about the weather from time to time. 'This sceptred isle'*, nestling, as it does, between so many competing weather systems, can surprise even the most informed among us with unexpected weather events. My highly developed feline senses normally detect pressure changes, but I didn't see this one coming! December was the coldest in the U.K. for 14 years and January's snow isn't making me feel any toastier.

The snowy carpet that has greeted us all in the U.K. since 2010 arrived has made the landscape appear quite magical at times, but I have been restricted to quarters mostly, apart from the odd trot around the garden to check all is in order, and then a hasty retreat back through the cat flap. I have gazed at the garden birds from the upstairs windows. They are kept well fed by my fellow residents. Freddy the pheasant and his harem of lady pheasants have become permanent fixtures in the front and back gardens, as they take advantage of my temporary imprisonment. They seem to be particularly partial to left-over Christmas puddings that have been scattered outside for them.

At least I haven't had to venture out on the roads. Situated in the countryside as we are, a lot of the smaller roads have been very icy and great care is required in these conditions. The lady of the house skidded on some black ice the other morning and ended up in the forest. Taking heed of the weather forecasts, she was driving slowly, so no bones were broken. Thankfully, I wasn't with her. I wouldn't have been impressed at finding myself upside down in amongst the trees. It was good to know that passing motorists, the police and ambulance services were all on hand to help, and I will get to drive in a new car next time she takes me out. It's about time, to be truthful.

As I am curled up in front of the log fire on these frosty evenings, I feel a tingle of excitement in my whiskers as I know spring is just around the corner. Beneath that snowy blanket lie snowdrops and daffodils - ready to burst into bloom as the days grow longer and warmer. While we're waiting for it, keep your scarf, hat and mittens close by for a few more weeks at least. We're not out of the woods yet, as the saying goes.

Personally, I shall tuck my nose under my paws and dream of mice.

* 'This sceptred isle' is a phrase used by Shakespeare in his play, Richard II, in Act 2, to refer to England. It is part of a very stirring, patriotic speech.