Many of you have emailed or asked me recently "What is up in the Weather Department?"  Why aren't you on when you used to be?

My schedule has changed here at 5 Eyewitness News.  After nearly 3 years of forecasting each day for the early evening newscasts at 4:30 and 5pm, I'm now working as the weekend meteorologist here at Channel 5.  The change happened in late August when Meteorologist Rob Koch was let go.  I can't begin to tell you how bad I felt when I learned that the weather department was being downsized.  And it's tough to be the one that moves into that position.  I know a lot of you have really enjoyed watching Rob deliver his forecasts over the years!  Now, I hope you'll invite me into your homes each weekend to get your latest forecasts for all that's going on in the Twin Cities, Minnesota, and Western Wisconsin.

In addition, I'll be doing some occasional weather reporting, so I'd love any story ideas you might have!  If you've got a suggestion for a weather/science/or environmental-related story, I'm all ears.  Just drop me an email at cwindler@kstp.com.

Finally, I appreciate your patience!  I'm finding that by not being in every day during the typical work week, I have a lot more difficult time responding to all the email I get from viewers like you on a timely basis.  Just know that if you do send me a note, I do get it...but it might be my day off or I may be out on a story at the time.  But I will make every effort to get back to you once I have the time.

Moving to Minnesota was a leap of faith for me and my family.  My first time visiting the state was on my job interview 3 years ago.  I had heard all the stories about how Minnesota was the "Arctic Tundra!"  I wasn't sure what to expect!  I'm glad that I took a chance in moving here.  Minnesota has far exceeded my preconceived notions and I can honestly say I love it here.  Even when it's 20 below, I love it here.  Granted, that's because I've got a great pair of winter boots and plenty of extra layers to throw on when I need to!  It seems there's always a fun family festival or outdoor fair to attend.  Every community has its own celebration and I never grow tired of exploring new places, going to new events, or even going back again and again after knowing what fun I had the previous year!

It's been such fun raising my little girl Austen here too.  She turned 2 on Friday and just watching her grow up and thrive here is more than I could ever ask for.  She's healthy, happy, and full of energy.  A big positive about my new schedule is that I'm now able to have days off with my husband and Austen.  We were practically the ONLY family out picking apples the other day at Aamodt's on a chilly Tuesday morning.  We got to take advantage of the Mall of America's "Toddler Tuesday" program last week.  We're finding that family time is just as fulfilling.  No lines, no waiting, no crowds.  That's a silver lining for sure.

By the way, if you've followed me over the years, you know I have both a passion for weather AND for photography.  Each weekend, I'll continue to share shots (I call them "Chik's Pics") that I've taken from events and outdoor activities across the Metro.  Give me a holler if you've got a suggestion for where I should go next! cwindler@kstp.com

Have a great week and I'll see you on 5 Eyewitness News next weekend!

-Chikage