Just Around the River Bend

Sometimes, the adventure comes to you. In typical Ohio fashion, the temperature went from arctic to approaching spring within a week.  And this is what happens when it's caught in the middle.  -A

Merry Christmas!

December Thaw

It wasn't cold out today.  It wasn't warm either.  There was a bright presence long forgotten in the sky that made an appearance, or at least tried, to prove that it hadn't totally abandoned the area.  Very few people besides me decided that it was a good idea to venture to the local Lake Erie beach, but I think times when it is semi-vacant are the most magical.  Even though the snow is gone now, it will come back.  Hopefully in the next couple days, in time for Christmas. -A

Winter Winery

We spent our Saturday relaxing at a couple of wineries with my parents.  Although it is now spring the area where the wineries are located is still snow covered.  It was a beautiful day to take a day trip as the roads were clear and the sun was shining at times.  I think the man fishing under the bridge was posing for me.  He looks content but I can't imagine standing in the icy water.  The dogs at the one winery greet everyone at the door.  A nice day to enjoy time with family, good food and wine. - P

Hay Bales in the Winter

I decided I would recreate a previous post where I was inspired by the Stack of Wheat by Monet.  I thought I posted it in the fall.  After taking the photos today I came home and looked at the post. It was from last January. My intent is to take photos of the hay bales during every season.  I am starting with winter again since I like the photos I took today.  Perhaps I notice them more in the winter since the bright colored trees and flowers stand out the rest of the year. Stay tuned for new ones this spring, summer and fall.  As for now, please enjoy a bit of a repeat. - P

It's Still Winter!

I'm sure that is stating the obvious, at least those in Ohio and the surrounding areas. The last couple of days I've been out and about soaking up what is probably (hopefully!?!) the tail end of winter. A day of snowboarding and then a nice nine mile run at the Towpath. My legs are sore and I'm pretty exhausted (in a good way), but if you need me I'll be spending tomorrow inside. -A

A Little Bit of Silly

During a run today, I came across this friendly creature. -A

More Winter Contrast

Although I've been in town all week, we've had quite a contrast in winter here.  Wednesday and Saturday, about 40 degrees difference.  From running in shorts to sled riding in a week.  It was great to open the windows for a day and also to experience the blanket of snow. -A

Winter Contrast

The view I enjoyed a couple of weeks in South Carolina.

The view I am enjoying now in the Midwest.

They are both incredible views and I like them both.  - P

Don't Tell My Snowboard...

...but my bike has gotten more action this winter than it has.  It was a treat to get out for a 10 mile ride today. The temperature peaked around 60F, so our friend M and I literally rode after work until it got dark.  It was a very refreshing experience not to be bundled up!  Our bikes even smiled.   -A

(PS Don't tell anyone I still kind of miss the snow).

Random Hike

On Saturday A and I decided we would go to yoga and then a 6 mile run. The winter has been mild so far, but Saturday proved to be anything but mild.  After yoga we knew running was out of the question as the streets were not clear, and we didn't want to be out there with cars sliding on the road.  After a few minutes thought on an alternate plan we decided to go for a hike.  We went out for a little over an hour and covered about 3 miles.  The change in plan was nice as we both haven't really participated in any winter sports this year so far.  Although we had our heart set on running I am glad we adapted to a little change in the schedule. We enjoyed the soup my husband made a lot more knowing it was well deserved after the hike in the cold blustery snow. - P

  

Haystacks

As my husband and I were driving around this weekend, I asked for him to stop to take a photo out the window.  He asked me later if I was inspired by Monet's Haystacks.  Perhaps I was. - P