Madison, WI

Started walk at 7:15 a.m.

Yesterday's afternoon meltdown was obvious on today's walk. The trails were slick with a noticable absence of snow for good traction. The open water on the ponds regained territory during the last 24 hours -- enough so that two ducks could paddle almost to the edge of the island.

The sky was overcast and and the temperature was warm for a January. The weather forecast calls for a high of 47. If this weather pattern continues, it will be very difficult to recognize the "January Thaw" when it comes.

The coffee was good -- Costa Rican. Cranberry muffin -- spongy -- gave most to Chance.