First Shovel Worthy Snowfall

Well it had to happen eventually, we had our first snowfall that required breaking out the snow shovel.  Note that it wasn't enough to warrant firing up the snow blower, but I gave that serious consideration - mostly because it is just so much fun to shoot snow everywhere.  As the snowfall happened the Monday before Thanksgiving it is somewhat worrisome what this might mean for a blustery winter but since the temperatures warmed up this week, I'm hopeful we won't be buried every three days in the white stuff for the rest of winter.  Although it would be nice to get several good snowfalls for some cross country skiing.

We headed over to Madison for the turkey weekend and while there did a little house shopping.  Didn't find anything to buy, but we always enjoy looking.  Jo's sister, Kathy, did her usual phenomenal job with Thanksgiving dinner, the turkey was noted for its moistness by all, and we were joined by several of Jo's relatives (one brother, one brother-in-law, one nephew and his wife, and of course Drew was there so really two nephews).  I did as little as possible during the time in Madison except for some serious time playing computer games and some serious over eating.  Between my laptop and IPad there seems to be a lot of opportunity to waste major portions of my day.  I got in several great long runs including a 8-9 miler which has happened in a long time.  Unfortunately, Jo's knee continues to bother her so she is off running until it feels better.  She actually hurt it in yoga, not running (although, running might be a contributing factor) - so that what you get for stretching.

We came home on Saturday after a morning hike in the Madison Arboretum to watch the Badger/Penn State football game.  As the Badgers played horribly we lost making my father happy and me having to avoid him until he is over the gloating moment - which might take several weeks.  We should still make a bowl appearance so we should get one more opportunity to watch them in action around New Year's Day.

I'm spending the week finishing up my Christmas shopping and getting the house decorated for the short holiday season.  Also made my first batch of Christmas cookies on Sunday - yum.