




Today we drove into the mountains with Lola and took pictures in the snow. Gwen insisted that we listen to holiday music throughout the journey. Feliz Navidad has been blasted into our heads and the image of Gwen dancing in the front seat with a huge, toothy grin is now a permanent Christmas memory. It was a perfect 70 degree day with blue skies and beautiful scenery. We encountered deer, eagles, hikers, and snow. Once in the mountains, we had breakfast at a little lodge which consisted of bacon, waffles, potatoes, cheesy scrambled eggs, avocado omelets, and coffee. After a leisurely meal we got back into the car and went to higher altitudes. We found a short trail head near the ski slopes and took Lola for a short walk where we took more photos. For me, this was a perfect beginning to the holiday season and a family ritual that I look forward to continuing. Usually, Mr. Hanky, the Christmas Poo (South Park character) gets the two of us ready for the Christmas season. Mr. Hanky is a little turd that hosts a Christmas special.