Trying to catch up

I was just thinking now that it's the beginning of January, I needed to get caught up both at work and at home.   Next thing I know, it's January 18 and I still haven't caught up.  Gosh, I feel like we just celebrated Christmas! 

There was a question on one of the morning programs recently asking if Americans are weather wimps.  I think it's the news broadcasters and weather forecasters that are making such a big deal about it.  When I hear that it's going to be sub-zero temps and snowy, I think, "Well, of course, it's January in Illinois.  It's supposed to be cold and snowy!"   Seriously, sometimes they make it sound like we've never seen snow before. 

Ok, enough of my rant.  Here's a look out my window over the past couple of weeks.

Despite the winter storm, I still found some beauty of the season.

Granted, I didn't like shoveling the snow over and over again.

I've got lots of these Sparrows perched in my apple trees 

and emptying the feeders.

 The little Woodpecker keeps busy

There are many more Juncos this winter than previous years.

As I write this, it's snowing here again.  It was supposed to be 4 inches of the fluffy, white stuff, but we already have over 8 inches.  I spent 4 hours outside shoveling this afternoon, which wasn't how I planned on spending my afternoon, but I figure it's good exercise.

I've been working on the consignment pieces and a couple of gifts and exchanges, so no stitching pics to share this time. 

What are you all working on?  Have you started any Valentine stitching yet?