Vacation Time -- SNOW

After several months of adjusting to Eastern New Mexico life, it was time to head West.  It just happened at the same time Grandma Donner was visiting.  Thus, we picked up Grandma and headed toward Albuquerque.  We settled into a great rental home near the Sandia Peak Mountains, complete with a hot tub and fire place!  We arrived late Thursday night, lit a fire, settled into the hot tub, and then found our beds.  Friday was a trip to the Sandia Park Tramway -- the world's longest.  At 10,378 feet up, there was quite a view!  We also enjoyed some good Mexican food at the base. 

At home, we enjoyed some good hot dogs and s'mores.

On Saturday, we played on the East side of the mountain -- SLEDDING!  The girls had never been sledding, but they caught on quickly.  All in all, the girls gave a thumbs up to snow.  They had fun sledding, making snow angels, and hiking through it.  We also enjoyed Courtney's chili, Mark's hot chocolate, and Grandma's coffee in bed.

Roadster

PC270010, originally uploaded by counsel14.

At least we have 13 more years before she hits the road!

Visitors -- Happy New Year

Grandpa and Grandma decided to make the trek to New Mexico to bid farewell to 2010 and greet 2011.  More than anything, they just wanted to play with the grandkids!  They had fun reading books, playing Don't Spill the Beans, Old Maid, and Chutes & Ladders.  The kids got to show off their favorite park, despite the 20 degree weather (it was a quick trip), as well as their dress-up clothes.  As for a New Year's celebration, we stayed up long enough to watch the New York ball drop, toast, and go to bed.  Granted, that is 10:00 p.m. New Mexico time.

Katelee listens intently (to the tv) while Grandpa reads

Olivia (and Tennyson below) sport their new Grandma-made night gowns

Admiring Reflections

Not Rain, Nor Fog, Nor Freezing Cold

It was sub-freezing this past week, but that did not stop Olivia from enjoying her new trampoline.  She took a broom out to sweep off the ice before jumping.  Granted, she did not stay outside very long . . . but you have to admire her dedication!