Get out the sunblock - it's 20 degrees!

You know it's been a long winter if you're excited about 20 degrees, but that is exactly what happened today.  We've dealt with a string of chilly weather.  When I say chilly, I mean wind chills of 30 below.  It hasn't been pleasant, but when it hit 20 degrees it felt like you could walk around without a coat.  I know it's not even February yet, but I'm ready for Spring.   

Chili Cookoff

It's not everyday eleven people march into their office carrying a crockpot, but that's exactly what happened at the station this week.  It was the first annual chili cookoff.  A few foodies organized the event, which was such a hit people are thinking up other 'cook off' ideas.

All eleven crockpots were lined up with numbered sampling cups next to each pot.  The goal was to try each one, and vote for your favorite.  I've never made chili before, honestly I'm not a fan of beans which I associate with all chilis, so I didn't enter.  However, this changed my mind.  I tried some pretty tastey chilis, and might just try to make my own sometime soon.

Happy New Year!

We didn't go far to ring in the new year, we stayed at a hotel about 15 minutes away.  We checked-in in the afternoon and quickly found the hotel hot tub - which was outside.  It was a balmy 10 degrees, snow was on the ground, and it was hailing (lightly) outside.  Sounds like the perfect hot tub weather doesn't it?  We bolted into the water as fast as possible.      

 After we ran back indoors, and adjusted to the 100+ temperature swing, we got ourselves ready to go to dinner.  We made reservations at a steak and seafood place across the street, where a slightly crazy waitress took our picture. 

Then we spent the rest of the night at the hotel bar.  We had a great time, and spent the rest of the weekend being lazy.  All in all, a great way to bring in 2011!