Sat 24 Jan

Getting ready to head out around 9 am. Yesterday we learned that our initial flight was canceled so they rebooked us on KLM leaving at 4:25 pm. Means we can't do church in Chicago as planned, but we can catch the service online. We will have a 6.5 hr layover in Amsterdam on Sunday, so we can find a spot to watch on a phone. Hopefully everything will go smoothly and safely today. Food: 7:15 am Wildberry oats, 1/2 c skim milk, 83 g blackberries, coffee

Fri 23 Jan

Last day of preparation before the month-long exodus to Spain. Temps this morning are -21°, though thankfully the wind is at least temporarily calm. Good day to stay home and get organized. Food: 7:55 am Wildberry oats, 1/2 c skim milk, 80 g blackberries, coffee

Thurs 22 Jan

Down to +3° again this morning, and tomorrow promises to be considerably colder. We're getting more of a real winter this year in Wisconsin after several mild years. Can't complain too much. especially since we get to escape to sunny Spain for a month. Food: 8:10 am Wildberry oats, 1/2 c skim milk, 85 g blackberries, coffee

Wed 21 Jan

A whole month past solstice; it's getting lighter in the mornings now. Temps at +9° this morning, so not quite so bitter as the last few days, but predicted to get worse again soon. Got to start reviewing my already-packed items and figuring out what remains to add so I'm not rushing at the last minute. Food: 7:55 am 78 g almond kringle, 89 g blackberries, coffee

Tues 20 Jan

Oooh, frosty morning. -8°, though winds don't seem as strong. Roto Rooter guys are here as Bob's shower backed up yesterday in the basement. Massage this afternoon if no one is sick. Food: 7:55 am 80 g almond kringle, 96 g blackberries, coffee

Mon 19 Jan

The cold is here. This morning it's -7° with a -20° windchill at the moment. No OBT today due to cold and also MLK holiday and Salvation Army staff being out of the building. Will only venture out this evening for choir practice. Food: 7:55 am 62 g OH almond kringle, 95 g blackberries, coffee

Sun 18 Jan

Today's the day the bitter cold moves in, along with winds to make nasty wind chills. Won't be going out any more than necessary, and not walking to church either. Indoor walking will have to suffice. Food: 7:55 am 75 g Costco cinnamon loaf, 98 g blackberries, coffee