This month started with a bang, with very cold temperatures and ample snow making it one of the winteriest first weeks of December on record. The rest of the month didn't continue this start however. Not to worry though, as the cold temperatures did last long enough for me to get some great winter photos. As the end of the year neared, I had the opportunity to visit the home of the blues, Chicago.
Downtown Chicago, Illinois, USA
December 30, 2005
Some photos just lay it all out there. A quick glance at this photo tells you everything you need to know ... Chicago Tribune Building, Chicago, Illinois, USA. Any questions?
Chicago Skyline at Night
December 29, 2005
In a city known for architecture, especially of it's tall buildings, the skyline makes an important statement. The panoramic view from the Field Museum is nothing short of breathtaking. (View larger version).
White-sided Dolphin Watchers
December 29, 2005
There is no doubt about it - dolphins are amazing animals. The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago is a great place to watch dolphins (and hundreds of other aquatic animals) do their thing underwater.
As the Globe Spins
December 24, 2005
The holidays have given me a bit of time to reflect, both on where I've been and on where I'm going. One of my favourite toys and tools has always been a globe. I really enjoy spinning a globe just to see where it will stop.
Cracked Ice
December 20, 2005
The coldest days of the month helped firm up the ice pretty quickly, but the daily fluctuations in temperature did create some lovely cracks.
Frosty Spokes
December 18, 2005
Another bike covered in ice ... what's the deal? Apparently these bike owners just don't love their ride enough to make space indoors.
Tough Shifting
December 18, 2005
It's going to take a little more TLC than usual to shift gears on this bike -- braking might not be too fun either.
Oak Leaf in the Snow
December 17, 2005
I couldn't help but think of my original Leaf on Snow photo when I saw this leaf. A little different than the original though, this leaf is half buried in the snow rather than sitting on top. Nice just the same.
Half-Court Offense
December 12, 2005
The UW Badgers run the half-court set in the first half against UNC-Wilmington at the Kohl Center in Madison.
What's Up Doc?
December 09, 2005
Taking a brief break from the food hunt, this squirrel cast a brief but haunting glare at me. Life may never be the same again.
Morning Diversion
December 09, 2005
With even more new snow to ride through, I'm nearly up to my rear derailleur already. Who says that Wisconsin doesn't have a 12-month long riding season? Not me.
Calm After the Storm
December 04, 2005
The morning after the first real winter storm of the year was a thing of beauty - soft, warm light, no winds ... a real stillness all around. Winter is the season for me.
Frozen Circles
December 03, 2005
I'm not sure why they are there, or what caused them, but I was intrigued by these unusual looking circles in the water. Within 48 hours, this entire stretch of the lake was frozen solid.
Red Berries in Winter
December 03, 2005
I don't know how many times I've witnessed (and photographed) this same scene, but, I keep going back for more. The brilliant red berries just seem so out of place. Simple natural beauty.
Snow on the Path
December 03, 2005
The cold snowy weather of early December 2005 continues. I have biked this path practically every day for the past three months, but today I'm enjoying it on foot.
State Street in the Snow
December 01, 2005
A cold snowy morning greets me as I bike up State Street. The fresh snow makes the winter lighting seem more appropriate.
