IN THE MEANTIME...

Author's note: I recently spent some time in Iowa, where I was able to gather my research for this post. I would also like to dedicate this post to my friend Dean... cause he loves the snow so much!

Living in the south has allowed me the ability to ride all year long and post my wonderful road miles for all my northern brothers and sisters to enjoy while they wait for Spring. I have been told by many of you, that you live vicariously through us warmer climate riders to help you get through the winter months. Believe me, there's nothing I would hate more, than looking at my beautiful ol' girl everyday and not be able to hop on and go for a spin. So in effort to help you snow covered bikers in the north, I've appointed myself activities coordinator to show you what you can do with your spare time while you wait for it to thaw.

SNOW FITNESS
It's real easy to get lazy and put on a few pounds during the winter, so one way to keep fit and healthy is shovel to the sidewalks! That's right. You heard me. Put your snow blowers away and go at it the old fashioned way. Shovel... shovel... and shovel some more! What a great way to build up your upper body strength while at the same time trying to keep ice crystals from forming in your lungs cause it's too frickin' cold to be outside! I haven't had to shovel snow in over 30 years, and I was reminded just how much fun this is. It's kinda like ridin' a bicycle... you just don't forget how!
Bonus tip: Angry at your neighbor? Just shovel your walks at the crack of dawn! Sccccrrraaaaape... foosh! Sccccrrraaaaape... foosh! Better than any alarm clock ever made.

HOW TO MAKE A BEAUTIFUL SNOW ANGEL
First... you have to find a nice little area of unmarred snow. Shouldn't be too hard, since ya'll have been getting plenty of it lately. When you've decided where you want your glorious creation to appear, turn your self around and plop down in the snow on your ass... being very careful not to touch the ground with your hands. Warning: Don't plop too hard... the snow is not as soft and fluffy as it appears. Ouch!

Second... Lay back in the snow, keeping your arms at your side and your legs straight. Ignore how cold it feels and resist the urge to hop back up. Yes, it will be slightly wet, but quit your cryin' (You can go in for hot chocolate in a minute).

Third... Keeping your arms flat on the ground, bring them up over your head as if you were making the letter "Y", then bring your arms back to your side. Act like a bird and flap your "wings" several times to make your impression on the snowy ground. Don't worry if snow falls into your coat sleeves, it'll just melt and make you wet. This is all part of the experience.

Fourth... Slowly and methodically, open your legs up wide (get your mind out of the gutter, we're makin' snow angels here!), pushing the snow with your thighs and calves as you go, then close them back together (besides... you'll melt the snow!). Repeat this step as many times as you feel necessary. Usually three or four spread eagles is enough for me. This too, will make your jeans wet. But don't worry, the wetness will freeze hard because it's only 6 degrees outside.

Fifth... Now here's the tricky part. Even though your cold, wet and your ass is frozen, you need to stand yourself up without using your hands. Once you've accomplished this somewhat challenging maneuver (with stiff icy jeans), gingerly step away from your newest creation, turn around, and behold...
... a beautiful snow angel!

EXPAND YOUR IMAGINATION
Look at me... I'm a reindeer! (or just another crazy chick with frost on the brain!)

Well... there you have it. Just a few ways to keep yourself busy while your snowed under with those pesky flakes. I feel very confident that this little guide will come in handy for many of you, and don't hesitate to write me for clarification on the proper technique for any of these activities. I'm happy to be of assistance!

I had a great time while visiting my family in Iowa during the Christmas and New Year holiday. I hope you can forgive me of my "tongue in cheek" version of dealing with winter... but I love the snow! I also realize it's because I don't live there anymore, so for me... it was a nice treat. I feel for those of you who have to deal with it for more than 10 days while on vacation, but they way I see it... there's plenty of room down here in the south if anybody wants to come join us. Otherwise... Spring is on the way!

In the meantime... I'm back in the south with no snow and warm temps. Since miles make smiles, I guess I'll go riding.

Lady R