Christmas SUP and Ice Skating

On Christmas Day in Chicago, the weather forecast predicted temperatures in the 40’s with mild winds - perfect winter SUP weather! I spent Christmas Eve working followed by dinner with friends - which has become a tradition - but Christmas Day is reserved for adventure, weather permitting. I was torn between breaking in my new hockey skates and paddling on a very calm Lake Michigan, so I didn’t choose - I did both!

Maggie Daley Park is in my backyard and home to the infamous skating ribbon - I can watch skaters from my apartment. The skating ribbon is extremely popular with locals and tourists. Ice skating on a path that winds around rock climbing walls with a little incline and decline - just to make it fun - is more appealing than the typical outdoor rink. Not to mention the breathtaking views of the city in the background. The ribbon gets very crowded, especially during the holidays, so I’m always there waiting for it to open. You can skate comfortably for about an hour before things get crazy!

After skating, I immediately went home and changed into my winter paddle gear. The lake was calm with light winds and partly sunny skies - perfect. The sun can disappear quickly in the winter, so it’s a good idea to get on the water while it’s shining. I drove to Burnham Harbor and launched my board - more on how to paddle the harbor soon! The sun was peeking through the clouds making for an artistic background for pictures. The water was calm and the city was on display. Paddling on the lake in the winter is so peaceful. No boats and jet skis to churn up the water! Just you, your board, and nature - along with the geese that seem to enjoy the lake more in the winter, too!

Exploring Lake Michigan and ice skating on Christmas may seem crazy, but it was a perfect day for me. Winter can be horrible in the Midwest, but it can also be glorious - it’s really what you make of it! Besides, I needed an excuse to indulge in all the tasty food and desserts that come along with the holidays.