This winter, mega snowstorms and below-average temperatures have been the norm in all parts of the country, causing some skeptics to declare the weather as evidence that climate change doesn’t actually exist. But scientist and kids TV show host Bill Nye says the naysayers are wrong.

According to Nye, who recently appeared on MSNBC’s The Rachel Maddow Show, the extreme winter weather is instead proof that climate change is happening. Say what? Turns out, global warming isn’t just above-average temperatures or below-average rainfall. Instead, it encompasses all forms of abnormal weather—icy cold and record snowfalls included (and is why the phenomenon is increasingly being referred to exclusively as “climate change”).

The takeaway? Eco-conscious families should continue efforts to reduce their carbon footprints. (Can’t stand the thought of being cold after turning the thermostat a few degrees lower? Check out these planet-friendly ways to stay warm.)

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Last week temperatures in the Philadelphia-area reached about 60 degrees. For a moment, I thought we beat winter. Visions of spring – fresh veggies, flowers and warm, sunny days – put a smile on my face. Then, I checked the 10 day forecast. Winter storm approaching. Normally I don’t believe storm warnings, but I grabbed my fabric bag and got ready to head to the food store.My partner stopped me and asked what I would be getting. I answered plainly, “Milk, bread, juice, eggs. The standards.” He challenged me to use what we had in the apartment instead of spending money to purchase food we didn’t desperately need. “Okay,” I replied always up for a challenge. I had chicken in the freezer and veggies leftover from Friday night’s dinner. This should be easy.I woke up today and the streets are snow-covered. Winter prevails and I am home cooking. For breakfast, we ate blueberry pancakes. My chicken soup is simmering in our cast iron Dutch oven. I think I’ll whip up some brownies later. I feel like I won, but more importantly, we won. It is a challenge for all of us in this economy. Let’s think to use what we already have to create something we may not have originally thought of.– Stephanie, KIWI staff and lover of creative cooking