Windshield time

By Holly Martin

Just like I didn't have enough to worry about, a recent study reveals that I could be at increased risk for skin cancer on the left side of my body. Why? I spend a heck of a lot of time driving. Apparently, that increased windshield time means that I am at increased risk due to the exposure to UV light coming through the windows of my vehicle.

That risk has definitely gone up in the last few weeks. I've spent a lot of time recently, traveling up and down the back roads of farm country. There's not much I can do to reduce my driving time; so if I'm going to get skin cancer, my time may be limited. At the very least, I better be productive while I'm driving.

For instance, I've learned that I might be a redneck, several times over, thanks to the warnings of Jeff Foxworthy on the Blue Collar Comedy station on my satellite radio.

I've learned that my favorite song only gets played once and the annoying one is in the rotation every hour.

I've learned that if this editor thing doesn't work out, all I need to do to make barrels full of money is to call an 800 number, watch a video and invest my life savings in a "program" that is a guaranteed success.

I've learned that, as a parent, car time can be invaluable. There are few outside distractions (as long as the electronics are left at home) and it can be a good chance to catch up with my kids.

But most of all, I've learned that I can solve many of the world's problems. Given enough miles, a Diet Coke, and a co-worker to brainstorm with, I could be the next leader of the free world. Now, if I could just get people to listen to me!

As farmers and ranchers, I know you have plenty of windshield time, as well. The windshield may be a tractor windshield or maybe no windshield at all if your mode of transportation is a horse or an ATV. But that time spent in solitude can be the key to your success if you choose to use it wisely.

Ideas come to those who wait--or something like that. And brainstorming, working out ideas and problem solving can sometimes be accomplished when your mind isn't focused on the mobile phone, television or the radio.

Maybe one of those car manufacturers can use their windshield time to figure out a way to block that UV light from giving me skin cancer. That would definitely be helpful.

4/21/08

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