The miracle of roses in winter

Christmas 2008

Christmas day hike to the Tabaguache with the doggies. The dogs got one dog bed for Christmas and one toy for Jasmine (up to this point they have been using folded-up blankets). Eventually we will get them each a bed. They were all curled up on the one doggy bed. They didn't mind and they were SO thankful.

The next day, Crystal and I traveled to Utah to be with extended family. It was a blur of sweets, Cranium, and sledding, visiting with family and friends. I love this time of year and the gift of being able to be with loved ones.

Sledding! As one can see from the pictures, we all had fun. I wisely declined going down the really, really steep hill, and sat it out with Kate. My old bones have let me know more than once things are not the same as they once were but still thankfully healthy enough to get out there.



Andrew and Kate! Kate is thrilled in this one.

Family portrait.

Crystal!

Austin!

Snowshoein'

I got the snowshoeing bug (after a year respite) over Christmas, snowshoeing up Rock Canyon. So after not going at all last year, I have been 3 times in the last week and a half. Living 50 miles away from the most prime snowshoe spot on earth, the top of the Grand Mesa, is like heaven. Someday when I can afford skis, I will do cross country skiing, I think it is still good exercise but can go much further. Yesterday's snowshoeing it was 10 degrees on top when we started (me and 4 dogs), but as long as we kept moving we were warm. The sun was shining brightly and there was 6-8 inches of fresh powder.

Elle's snow shoe tracks on pristine snowfall.

Stop sign and Buddy on top.