As winter closes in it is time to go south to enjoy warm weather, sunshine and relaxation. The cold temperatures of autumn mark the beginning of the migration to the sunbelt. In many places the severe winter weather is already rearing its ugly head.

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain. Precipitation freezes, turning into snow, making for dangerous driving conditions.

If your like me, winter has gotten to be a lot less fun. I can only put up with frigid weather, snow, traffic jams, and icy sidewalks for so long. Winter weather means heavy shoes, bulky gloves, and big coats, none of which I enjoy.

So close your eyes and picture beautiful surago cactus in a pristine desert setting, or glistening sand beaches, gentle waves, swaying palm trees and colorful flowers. If you’re serious about avoiding winter, you’re probably dreaming of becoming a snowbird. Snowbirds aren't really birds at all. Snowbirds are people who go south for the winter to escape the harsh weather of their main home.