The quintessential Midwestern winter sport; ice hockey! Kids can’t wait for the several days of below freezing weather necessary for a body of water to freeze. Local Park District workers flood whatever flat spot is available in the park and let the weather do the rest. In my old neighborhood they flooded the basketball court, here they flood a section of the soccer field, then the fun begins!

We probably won’t be able to see the special lunar eclipse tonight (between 2am & 4am CST) because of clouds,  falling snow and the fact that we’ll probably be asleep. It is special because it falls on the Winter Solstice, the ‘shortest’ day of the year and the official start to the winter season. Daylight will begin to increase by increments tomorrow! A great reason to celebrate with lights.

The moon will have a coppery red color during the eclipse, but I think this beautiful blue has a lunar aspect to it.

It’s been in the teens temperature wise so we decided Mavrik needs some extra insulation! He doesn’t seem to mind his new sweater, jumping and running after his ball like usual. This model even has a little pocket on the back so he can carry his personal items!

Last shopping Saturday before Christmas. The Village of Hinsdale provided free horse drawn wagon rides around town (15 minute ride unless a train caused traffic delays) and free gingerbread man decorating!

Bill & Jack pulled the wagon around town.

Oh No, somebody took a bite out of my head!

We’re off to take our night time dog walk (for our benefit as well as Mavrik’s). It’s the perfect time to see all the Holiday lights, to ward off the SDYS; ‘Shortest Day of the Year Syndrome’, fast approaching.