I consider winter to be more than half-way over around this time, late January/early February. February is usually brutal, but at least I know spring is around the corner. This year, November, December, and now January have passed with only a few super freezing days and two noteworthy snowfalls that melted quickly. I haven't even put studded tires on Oma yet.
By enjoying this extremely mild winter, I feel like I've gotten away with something major, like a jewelry heist. I almost don't want to write this ...
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Have I mentioned that winter's finally come to Chicago? And she is not messing around.
This morning I biked to work in 15 F temps. My alley was an ice rink, but the streets and bike lanes were clear and dry. That's good, because I haven't put studded tires on Oma yet. I was totally comfortable throwing a puffy vest over a wool skirt suit and wool undershirt, plus cotton tights, snow boots, scarf, gloves, and earmuffs. I stuck heating packs in my mittens and boots, otherwise I wouldn't have made it.
By...
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Chicago's monthly Critical Lass ride continues on, even in the dark cold!
Usually I avoid winter group rides because biking for a long time at slow speeds in freezing temps is a great way to freeze my extremities off.
The ladies behind Critical Lass understand these problems and have adjusted the winter rides accordingly. For the next few months, the ride will be short (3-4 miles) and end at neighborhood bars that are close to home for as many of the lasses as possible.
This plan worked perfectly for ...
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Bright red seems like the best color for city cycling, getting drivers' attention while still looking stylish off the bike. Chic, classic, and bold.
For this reason, I've been searching for the perfect red coat for two years, especially since seeing this post on Copenhagen Cycle Chic. Yesterday, the miraculous happened: I finally found "my" red coat. I was walking through Anthropologie during my lunch break, which I often do to torture myself because I usually can't afford their beautiful clothes, when I spott...
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On Sunday, Chicago's lovely bike ladies got together for the final brunch of 2011. The weather in Chicago is unseasonably mild and I was able to get by without a coat, wearing a sweater dress ($2 from Salvation Army!) and glittery Cynthia Rowley tights (a gift from Trisha last Christmas).
About 15 of us met at The Southern in Bucktown and boy was it good!
I had to get the fried chicken, biscuits and gravy (hey, I'm from North Carolina!). There was enough left over for yummy dinners on Sunday and Monda...
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The past two days have been rainy and super windy, so I've taken public transportation. The L train is no fun compared to my bikes, but I'm grateful for its convenience when needed. The combination of bicycling and access to great public transportation is what allows me to live without a car
Happily, today is sunny and dry, although 39 degrees - brrr.
I'll not complain about fall weather too much, because I know what's coming.
Gotta remember to appreciate the present. Happy Friday!
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This is a post where I get to use our "a-holes" tag.
Yesterday morning, during the portion of my commute where I have to use a busy road, I approached an intersection (Wells & Division) with the green light and I kept a sharp eye on opposite traffic to make sure no one turned left in my path. That is a common occurrence because drivers either don't pay attention or think they are fast enough to dart through, so I'm always looking out for it.
I entered the intersection and the opposite driver, who had a clear ...
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The delightful, crisp fall weather has turned into lots of rain and somber grey skies. The past five days have been pretty crappy, weather-wise. I took the L because of the rain on Monday and that experience reminded me that riding a bike is always more enjoyable, even if in the rain.
An upside of fall, regardless of the exact weather conditions, continues to be seasonal clothing. I've been enjoying all my tweed and wool and - yes - velvet. Very librarian chic. LC of Naturally Cycling: Manchester recently talk...
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Yesterday I wore tights for the first time since May (according to the archives), as the temps dipped to the high 50's and low 60's. Trisha has mentioned the best thing about the summer/fall temperature change is the introduction of tights into the wardrobe and I totally agree.
I appreciate carefree summer dressing, but something about pulling on tights and a light jacket or sweater excites me. Fall has always been my favorite season, with its crisp air, blue skies and orange leaves. Definitely the best time f...
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The summer heat has (temporarily?) given way to cooler air - 61 degrees this morning! It's the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing ride on Chicago's Lakefront Trail.
The fresh air off Lake Michigan, scenic views of the skyline, and escape from city traffic combine to make the trail the most pleasant way to get downtown.
As summer winds down, don't forget to stop to smell the roses and take the long way home.
If you are lucky enough to have such a beautiful route option, why would you not...
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