Winter Friend

Snowmen

With Christmas over it's Snowman Season. Here in IL there is no snow. So far we had one snowfall an accumulation of about an inch and only lasted 2 days. Other than that it's been flurries. I can't remember the last time we were this far into January without a real snowfall.

Biking

It's been really warm so far in January and I had the itch to ride my bike today. It turned out to be the dirtiest ride I've taken in 3+ years on this bike. I hadn't figured on mud, but considering it was in 54°F on Friday and it's only been below freezing a few hours at night, it's not really surprising there was a thin layer of mud over much of the 6 mile path I rode. 

I had so much mud on my winter jacket it went right into the washing machine. Here's what my bike looked like after the ride.

Green Shutters

I've driven by this house for years and I think it catches my attention because it's not like most of the "mansions" nearby. I like the whitewashed brick and the arched side entrance. It reminds me of homes in the south or maybe a county "estate" in England.

Dia de los Reyes

Happy 12th Day of Christmas - Epiphany - King's Day, the day the magi brought gifts to Jesus. My friend Vicki lives in Mexico and this day is celbrated with a Rosca de Reyes, a King's Cake. After reading an article she posted on Facebook I decided to buy a cake and share it with my coworkers.

 Inside the Rosca are hidden babies that represent hiding Baby Jesus from King Herod. If you find a baby you have to host the next party. My friend Bonnie found the first baby.