I use the METAR desktop gadget for windows. Microsoft has removed the gadget gallery (the link says in preparation for Windows 8) but you can still find gadgets online. I found it on this link: http://www.thoosje.com/vista-sidebar-gadgets-tools-utilities-3.html, five rows down on the right. I think the programmer does not actively support it anymore but it has worked flawlessly for several years. You can configure it with your nearest local reporting station and then clicking it will bring up the latest METAR for that station, decoded, along with a radar image and 7-day forecast. There are links in the report that will open a web browser to give you animated radar or find weather for a different location.
