Sled Dogs

While we were at Surfside Nicole and I spent some time one morning on a sled dog ride. We have often wanted to try that when up our annual trip, but never took the time. The gal that gave us a ride mushes full time as her profession. She competes in races all over the country and gives rides when possible, according to her she is able to pay for her food bill throughout the year by offering rides (she has 45 dogs to feed!). Our total ride time was 20 minutes, which went by very fast, but we had ample time to talk with her before and after, so all together spent over an hour with her and the team.

This view shows the beginning of the team being hitched up, 10 dogs were used total to pull 3 people. They didn't even flinch at the weight. We're viewing a snowmobile trail, after the bridge there is an old trail to the right that we veered onto.

The final 2 dogs being brought down to be hooked up. I love the view of the dogs because they were so hyper to get going. Most of them are looking back to see how much longer of a wait. Nicole (in the tan carhartt's) is chatting with the musher.

Nicole with the most friendly dog (they were all friendly). He wanted to lean into anyone that gave him some affection and was happy to give you plenty of "kisses".

Surfside

A week ago we spent some time at Surfside on Lake Superior with the Berge's and Hjelle's. This is our fourth year in a row taking our annual trip to the North Shore. As always, our time went by too fast and the sights were amazing.

Sundown

Frosty trees and cloudy/foggy views. (Taken on Mount Oberg during a hike)

The gang on our hike, without the fog we'd be seeing a large vista in front of us, oh well.

Nicole and I during the hike. Nicole displaying her sleepy eyes; this was take 2, take 1 she had them completely closed. (a couple readers will know where she gets this from)

Our unit was right behind Nicole. We had the bottom floor all to ourselves. Complete with a kitchenette, jacuzzi, fireplace, tv, king size bed, and a wonderful bathroom.

Christmas - Round 2

Round 2 was spent in Minnetonka at Nicole's parents in mid January. Below is a typical picture after the two daughters finish opening their stockings from Santa. I believe this has been every year and is a fun tradition. Nicole was commenting on how different she and her sister look in this picture, but I see a few similarities.

Our nephew brought over his Wii to play. Golf, bowling, and boxing were quite fun.

Christmas - Round 1

I'm sensing a theme here: wow, it's been a month already since my last post. Oh well, here goes... round 1 of Christmas was spent in Reynolds. If I remember correctly we had 2 full days at home with the family which was nice since it's been quite a while since I've been home for more than a day at a time.

The traditional family pose, minus the 2 spouses and kiddos. Please note the tree in the background, circa 1979, yes its still alive a kicking, although barely.

I am particularly fond of this pose. We asked for them to give each other a hug; this was as good as it got.

And Christmas wouldn't be complete without Nicole making at least 1 type of pie or dessert.