Heading Home…

This morning the girls and I left my parents house bright and early after a lovely visit with my parents and sister. As with every trip to Montana, I hated to go but we have to return back to reality at some point. That and Grandma Zoe would be arriving in Seattle tomorrow for a belated birthday visit!
So we headed out jsut after the sun came up. This time I took a back route out to I-90 to see if the bull moose we had seen last night might be out again in the morning. When we got to the river, not even a deer could be spotted. Oh well, it was a hope and even though we didn’t see anything, the back route over was absolutely beautiful during sunrise.
Heading over the Continental Divide at sunrise.

According to Uncle Barry “If you cant find it at Herberger’s, then you don’t need it!”

We crossed the Continental Divide just as the sun was really beginning to rise and we stopped in Butte for some breakfast. Aside for bathroom breaks and a stop for lunch in Post Falls, Idaho the rest of the trip was pretty uneventful. As we drove through the Columbia River Plateau we saw a huge grass fire just starting to gain some strength and create some pretty heavy smoke. My hope is that this fire is put out quickly as it was getting close to several homes and the fields of electrical windmills.

We made it home in the late afternoon after a drive through Fall City, Snoqualmie and Redmond to avoid afternoon traffic. It was a beautiful drive and a nice end to the trip. It was great to be home! Now its time to prep for a visitor!

Visiting Family in Anaconda

On Sunday Great Grandma Laura, Auntie Diane and Uncle Barry and David came over to Bozeman to have dinner with the family. It was a quick visit but so nice to see everyone. I have not seen my cousin David since our wedding, so it was absolutely wonderful to visit with him. I am hoping that sometime in the near furture we can get all of the family together in one spot!
After a lovely dinner with the family yesterday, we headed out to Anaconda today to visit with Grandma, Diane, Barry and David. Heading out that direction gave us more of a chance to sit and just relax with everyone. Abby and Ellie had the chance to play, chase Sasha the cat around and put on a show for everyone. Great Grandma Laura laughed and smiled the entire time. I know seeing the girls brightens her day, no matter what!
Great Grandma Laura, Grandma Denise, Abby and Ellie. Three generations of family in one place.

Cousins! Although its not complete without Michael. Hope we can all get together soon!

Ellie was putting on a fashion show. She has got the look down!

Fashion show duck face!

Great Grandma Laura, Auntie Jillian, Me, Abby and Ellie. Some very lovely ladies!

The motley crew from Anaconda (and Arizona). Gonna miss these people a lot. Until next time!

As a treat we took Grandma to the Haufbrau, one of her favorite places to eat. The food was delicious and the time spent talking with one another was even better. Anaconda is a very small town and because of that, you get to know a lot of the people who live there. Its nice to head to a restaurant where Diane, Barry and Grandma know so many of the people who work there. Such a sense of family and community!

After dinner it was back to their house to gather our things and say goodbye. I hated to leave, as I felt I needed more time to visit, but we needed to get back to Seattle. I know we will get to see everyone again soon but leaving is always tough. Yet, the show must go on and life isn’t one big vacation!

On the way home we had one last sighting that made us all giddy and happy. Standing out in the middle of  a large pasture was a big bull moose. My parents had seen this moose just a week before standing in the river not far from where this pasture was. Its not common for moose to be down in the valleys and lowlands, especially this time of year, but this moose had been frequenting the area quite a bit. He was a very big guy, even bigger then the one we had seen in Yellowstone several days ago, so I am sure he felt safe enough to stay out in the open. It was near dusk and there wasn’t a safe place to stop the car so that I could grab a picture but it was still a spectacular sight. A nice little parting gift before heading home tomorrow!

Yellowstone! Its Pretty Much A Given…

Yup, its Summer (not that that matters), we are in Montana, and there is time, so guess what? We took a day trip to Yellowstone! Yeah, its pretty much a given that if we have the means and opportunity, we will take a trip. So blessed that my parents live close enough to take just a day trip to my favorite place on earth!

The day in the park was perfect, a little warm but what can you expect for August! Grandpa let the girls use his binoculars and they were really excited about it. They became our animal scouts for the day!  I worried that constantly looking through them as we drove along might result in the need for some car sick bags.

We started our trip as we usually do, heading out to the Lamar Valley area. Summer time allows for us to go a few extra places within the park, one of which is a favorite along the Blacktail Plateau. Its a nice spot off of the beaten path where you can sometimes see bear, wolves, eagles, hawks, marmots and more. Most of the drive produced a lot of dust on the dry dirt road, a prairie falcon watching us from his rock perch and some pretty wildflowers in the open fields. We had made our way through most of the drive without seeing anything and then, there he was!

A very small group of people had stopped just off of the road near an open field. We were stuck behind a small hill but got out of the car to see what was going on. Just as we made it to the top of the little hill we saw the big bull moose, sauntering across the field. He was less then fifty yards away but well within a safe a difference from us. It has been a long time since we have seen a bull moose and this close too! He seemed content with us nearby and just went about his business walking through the field and up into the trees. We hopped into the car and drove further up the road to a pull out near petrified tree. From there we pulled out our binoculars and watched the moose head to a small meadow. He took his time there, eating and drinking from what must have been a small stream or pond and then decided to lay down for a late morning snooze.

Our animal scouts hard at work.
The beautiful big bull moose came sauntering out of the trees and less then 50 yards from where we were standing.
Such a big and beautiful animal. Its been a long time since I have seen a moose this close and a bull at that.

After the excitement of the moose we continued on our way out to Lamar Valley. Lamar was pretty quiet and the heat of the day was most likely keeping the larger animals in the shade of the trees. We did see plenty of pronghorn, some of the big male bison and an eagle off in the distance. We went as far as we had time for and then turned around. The next plan of action was to find some lunch and hopefully a few more of the big animals. So with that we headed up and over Mt. Washburn and down to Canyon Village for some lunch.

After lunch we headed out to Hayden Valley with hope of seeing more then just bison and other hooved animals. But that was not the case, unfortunately. It was a beautiful drive though. Hayden Valley is just one of those places you have to see for yourself. The wide and meandering Yellowstone River and the rolling green and golden hills are peaceful and stunning. Its one of many reasons Yellowstone is my “Happy Place”.

We could only go so far through Hayden Valley if we wanted to have time to see other things, so we turned around and headed back towards Canyon Village. During the drive back both girls fell asleep. I couldn’t blame them. The day was sunny and warm and there was a nice cool breeze blowing. Who wouldn’t want to fall asleep?

Lots of fun, sunshine and mountain air makes kiddos tired. I know someone else who used to cover herself with a blanket in the car.
This yellow-bellied marmot was one regal looking fellow.
Hands off of my berries!
I think this little chipmunk was hoping to steal a berry from the marmot.

From Canyon Village we drove through Norris and back up to Mammoth. We decided to take one last drive out to Lamar and through Blacktail Plateau. Maybe, just maybe we would see a bear or a wolf. But alas, we did not. The late afternoon drive through Blacktail was beautiful. The sunlight lit up the remaining wildflowers and remnant burned trees from the fire of 1988. It was a wonderful last picture to have before getting ready to head home.

Blacktail Plateau Afternoon Sunlight
The lone coyote spotted by our little hawk eyes!

As one last little jaunt through the park, we took the secret road from Mammoth to the north gate. Last year when we took this same road Abby spotted the bones of a bison sitting right on top of a small hill. She wanted to see if they were still there. As we turned up and around the first hill she spotted them! Some of them were gone, most likely taken by tourists or other animals. Abby was pretty happy and I think she hopes to see them the next time we travel there.

On our way through the narrow, one way road we spotted a young bull elk getting an early start on his harem of ladies. Then Abby started yelling that she saw something. At first we thought that she was being silly because she had been using the binoculars to spot Grandpa Jerry. But she was being serious. Her sharp little eyes found a lonely coyote walking along the hillside. Neither Grandma or Grandpa or mommy had seen it! She spotted her first animal all on her own! What a way to end the trip through Yellowstone.

That coyote was the last animal we saw that day but it was a special sighting. The drive home was peaceful and quiet. The fresh mountain air and the beautiful day had left us relaxed and happy. Can you see why I call this place makes me so happy? No? Well then I suggest taking a trip there sometime, its worth it.

Hyalite Canyon Drive

Today was pretty quiet and relaxing. Everyone had to work today so the girls and I took some time together to do a little shopping, have a lunch date and then we took a drive up through Hyalite Canyon. Being that its the beginning of August, the wildflowers have bloomed and are starting to fade away but the shaded areas along the canyon walls and the rivers are still hanging on. I stopped for a few pictures although the bees were hard at work collecting pollen, so I didn’t get as close as I might have liked.
They might be weeds to most, but they are still pretty to me!
Love the wildflowers along the canyon.
Hyalite Creek
Hyalite Reservoir on a beautiful summer day.
Cute little smiles from my awesome little traveler.
Smiles from ear to ear!

The drive is a quick one but beautiful in the summer. The road is only open from June until about September, so its nice to actually have the chance to go all of the way up to the reservoir. There were a few people enjoying some time on the lake, but other then that it was quiet and perfect. We didn’t stay too long as Grandpa Jerry was able to get off of work early so we went back to the house and got ready for dinner. It was great to have some time out. Nice after all of the stress of moving. Shaun needs to come out too as I know the stress was even more for him!

An Afternoon at the Museum

Today was fun one, as always! Grandma and Grandpa had to work today but Auntie Jillian had the day off. SO after a relaxing morning we decided to head to the Museum of the Rockies for an afternoon of fun. The summer exhibit this year was about space travel, one I know Abby would not want to miss. That and I knew the girls wouldn’t stop asking until we went, many thanks to the Yellowstone play area for children.
We arrived just as an afternoon thunderstorm was trying to make its way into the valley. I was secretly hoping that we weren’t inside the museum too long. I didn’t want to miss it! Until then we would enjoy the museum and have a lot of fun.
Afternoon thunderstorm… Love it!
Abby and Ellie standing with Steve Hawley’s flight suite. The very last one of its kind.
Sitting in the kitchen, or a mock up of the kitchen, in the next craft intended for use by NASA.
Touching a real moon rock! Pretty cool if you ask me.
Fishing time! Who will catch one first?
Sisterly Eagle love… hmmm, that sounds awkward, but that’s ok.
Sisters in Eagle masks… AKA personal petri dishes.

The girls had a great time at the museum and really loved the NASA exhibit. They had the chance to see parts of the old shuttles and what the capsules looked like, They also had the chance to see a real flight suite and also touched a moon rock! We even had the chance to walk around in a mock up of the living area of the newest project by NASA. Afterward we headed up to the Yellowstone Adventure area to play for a bit. This is really what the girls came for and the NASA exhibit was a big bonus. As always they had a blast laying around and it was like pulling teeth to get them to go home.

When we left, the thunderstorm that was rolling had decided to get a bit bigger and the wind was blowing like crazy. We stopped for a yummy treat of frozen yogurt on the way back and when we left we had to book it home. Several surrounding areas were reporting major wind gusts and tornado warnings. The wind blew, we had some rain and thunder and continue to have some as we speak but nothing worse then that. It was yet another awesome day and we were so happy to spend it with Auntie Jillian!

A New Road Trip…

After a lot of time and effort spent unpacking, its time for us to head to Montana for a quick little visit. My cousin David will be in town visiting and I couldnt miss the opportunity to see him. We have not seen one another since our wedding six years ago! 
This trip, the girls and I would once again be flying solo. Its a new one for the girls and its a drive I have done only a few times in my life. It should be quite the adventure. Shaun had planned to come with us but the job search started to heat up, so we felt that staying behind in the event of an interview was the best thing to do. As always I will miss not having my partner in crime on the road with me.
The girls and I left very early this morning with the hopes that we could avoid traffic heading into Bellevue and on I-90 heading towards Snoqualmie Pass. That and the drive is about 11 hours with stops, so I wanted to have plenty of time to travel but still get in at a decent time. So we left home just as the sun was starting to rise and it was beautiful.
Good morning Snoqualmie!

The drive over Snoqualmie was beautiful. It was a cloudy and somewhat drizzly morning, with some low hanging clouds through the pass.The girls quietly watched movies and drifted in and out of sleep. The drive out through central Washington was a smoky one. Fires in the Southeastern Cascades were growing due to the heat of the summer and the wind was blowing east, right into the valleys. It was still a pretty drive and of course I had the stretch of highway, about 18 miles worth, that had all of the local crops labeled. It keeps you busy for a while.

A stop in Spokane for some lunch and gas gave me the break I needed just before heading over 4th of July and Lookout passes. Both have very steep accents and descents, so its nice to rest the brain and the eyes before tackling them. Luckily driving through Idaho’s panhandle and the two passes was a breeze. The weather was beautifully clear and traffic was minimal. My type of driving.

Pit stop just inside Montana State Lines. Even the rest stops here are beautiful!

Heading over Homestake! The last major mountain pass before our destination!

Summer thunderstorm rolling in, so pretty!

The remainder of the trip was pretty uneventful and absolutely beautiful. Its so true that my heart belongs in the mountains of Montana. Every time we visit, I love it more and more. Driving from Seattle now gives us the chance to see more of it too! The mountains, the big beautiful and meandering rivers, and the amount of uninhabited open space. There is just something magical about this place that I just cannot describe.

When we arrived late in the afternoon a summer mountain thunderstorm was rolling in. What a greeting! You could smell the rain in the air and feel the warm temperatures cool a bit. The lightening and thunder tonight have been spectacular and I have a feeling there will be more. Nothing really beats a summer thunderstorm in the mountains. So glad to be here but missing Shaun a lot.

Heading Home

Our final day in Bozeman was very low key. Most of the time was spent doing laundry and packing up all of the goodies we collected from our trip and Christmas. We ran a few errands and packed up the car. That night we enjoyed dinner from Santa Fe Reds (yummy) and some last moments with the family. As always it was hard to say goodbye and our hearts were heavy when we left that night. Leaving Montana is never easy for me, but I know we will be back soon and I am pretty certain that everyone will be down to visit soon!
In the morning we left early and grabbed breakfast. There was a storm front moving in across the mountain areas of Idaho and Utah so we wanted to get ahead of it as best we could, and we did. We actually made such amazing time that we continued past our original stop in Pocatello and stayed in Salt Lake City that first night.  From there we stopped in Vegas and then home! 
While I hate to come home from any vacation, once you have started the process of doing so you almost feel like you are in a hurry to get back. We couldn’t get home soon enough! So when we finally arrived and walked through the door it felt so great to finally be home. I actually looked forward to unpacking and sleeping in my own bed sounded like heaven to me. I am sure Shaun felt the same way!
In the car, stopping for gas and heading our on our way!
This is the “dont bother me I am busy in the car” look.

Lunch with Everyone!

After a low key day yesterday, we had one final hoorah with all of the family. Auntie Diane, Uncle Barry and Great Grandma Prueter came over from Anaconda to have lunch with all of us at Ted’s. To top the whole afternoon off, my cousin Mike and his beautiful fiance’ Sue came with them! They were up from Arizona to visit for the New Year and we were lucky enough for our trips to overlap. The only thing that would have made the day even better is if my cousin David had been there too. He couldn’t be there physically but as always he was there in thought.
Lunch was delicious as it always is at Ted’s but the best part was all of the conversation and catching up that we were able to do. Growing up Mike, David and myself were very close. As life moved us in different directions the time together became less, so when we have the chance to see each other we enjoy every second of it. I was also very excited to meet Sue and welcome her into this nutty family. Let me just say that she fits right in and I can see why Mike loves her so much. She is beautiful inside and out and has one of the sweetest and warmest personalities. Abby really took a liking to her and I think was a little sad when we had to go. It was such a wonderful lunch and as it always seems to happen, our time together moved too fast.
Before everyone parted ways, we took a moment to get pictures together. Its not often that we get the chance to take a picture with most of the family. Love having the memories like this and to see so many generations of family in one place. 
Ellie is a little unsure about the high fives from Mike.
Hanging with Great Grandma Prueter and Auntie Jillian
The Wharton Gang with Great Grandma Prueter
The Whole Gang minus Grandpa Jerry (the man behind the camera) and David!
Cousins! So wish you could have been there with us David!

After lunch and saying goodbye, we did a little shopping down Main Street. The big girls (me, Jillian and Grandma Denise) took some time looking in the cute boutique shops while Shaun and Grandpa Jerry took the girls to the toy store to play a bit. This made them happy and kept them occupied for quite some time. When all the shopping was done, we headed to the Chocolate Moose which is an old fashion candy shop and soda fountain. We indulged in a little bit of ice cream and candy, some of which were favorites that I have not seen since childhood. Such an awesome place, especially for families. Before long the temperature outside was falling fast so it was time to get back to Grandma and Grandpas house. What a great final adventure before heading back home.

Its Not Montana Without Yellowstone!

Visiting with my parents in Montana always means being tempted with a trip to Yellowstone. Each time, Yellowstone wins. How could it not? Its such a beautiful place and even though the winter keeps all but one road through the park closed, it still holds something magical to all of us.

This trip found us taking a day trip to Yellowstone. Once again we couldn’t resist. Luckily my dad was able to rent a car large enough for all us. This meant that we didn’t have to travel separately and we could enjoy the time together. The one perk for Abby and Ellie is that the rental had DVD players and screens in the backs of the seats. They could enjoy movies when boredom struck and as much as they love Yellowstone, boredom strikes fast with them. So, with DVD’s playing and the car all packed up, we took off early in the morning for Yellowstone. Luckily for us the weather was gorgeous and perfect for a drive through the park.

On the road and almost there. As you can tell the DVD player  is keeping Ellie so happy.
Overlook from Upper Mammoth Terrace looking down at the Gardner River
Steam and frost along Mammoth Terrace. Picture courtesy of Jerry Taylor
Its amazing what the steam from the nearby geysers and hot springs can create when its so cold out.
When we arrived we headed up to Mammoth and the upper terraces. From there we had a beautiful view over Mammoth Hot Springs and out towards the Gardner River. We couldn’t go to far so we turned around and headed out the only way we could go, to Lamar Valley. We kept our eyes peeled for animals. People were stopped along the way looking with spotting scopes. The wolves were out but off in the distance and too far for us to see. We did see bison along the way, mostly the big males who were out sunning alone. We did see a lone coyote hunting mice and voles in the snow. We watched as he patiently listened but kept a sharp eye on us. Eventually he jumped into the air, pounced and pulled a tasty snack out of the snow. Once he had it, he continued on his way trying to find a place to stop and eat.
Relaxing and sunning in the snow.
Carefully watching us as he or she hunts for a snack.
Afternoon Sun on the Snow
A long day in the fresh mountain air means sleepy children.

We continued through Lamar Valley, enjoying the snowy landscape and taking in as much as possible. We stopped for a bit of a lunch break and then made our way back to Mammoth. In Mammoth we did a bit of shopping at the General Store (a few snacks and little souvenirs for the girls) and then said goodbye to Yellowstone.

That night on the way home, Grandma and Grandpa treated us to dinner at the Rib and Chop House. I was in heaven. I love the food there, especially the stuffing! We each enjoyed a yummy dinner after a gorgeous day in Yellowstone. That night we all slept well and maybe even had a few dreams about our next visit to Yellowstone, whenever that might be.

Museum Time!

After a relaxing New Year celebration, we thought it would be nice to get out of the house and do something for Abby and Ellie. While playing in the snow would keep them happy for hours, they have also continuously  asked to go to the Museum of the Rockies. Since Grandma, Grandpa and Auntie Jillian all had the afternoon off we headed for one of their favorite spots.
On the way there we did stop for lunch at Rosie’s pizza. I just had to mention that because it was our first time eating there and boy was it yummy! It was there that Abby discovered the yummy goodness of Parmesan cheese on her Pizza.
Time at the museum was pretty simple. We headed up to the play area first so that the girls had the chance to run out some of their craziness and we wanted to make sure that we didn’t miss it. We might not hear the end of it if we did.
Doing a little bit of fishing…
I caught one! Grandpa Jerry and Grandpa Pat would be proud!
Taking a break from cooking and other fun things.
I’m an Eagle!
I am Abby the Eagle!

After the play area we headed out to see some of the new exhibits. The first was all about building and engineering. At the front of the exhibit was a low table covered in wood building pieces. Museum patrons were invited to add on to the structures already created by others or start one of their own. Abby, Ellie, Daddy and Auntie Jillian did just that and had a blast doing so. Shaun’s structure looked pretty cool by the time he was finished with it.

A Family that builds together… well… has fun together!

After construction was completed we moved on to the next exhibit. This one showcased Montana artists and their furniture and woodworking. What beautiful and amazing pieces of work. I found myself saying that if I had a big beautiful cabin in Montana somewhere, I would want everything on display. From dining room tables and clocks to drafting tables and wet bars that looked like a train caboose, I wanted them all. I also wished that I had a skill like that that I was good at, but that’s another story.

Beautiful wood carved clock. Love the wolf on it!
Beautiful carved table top with the Teton range. Love this one!
When we were done wishing we had everything in the exhibit, we moved on to Abby’s favorite place… The Dinosaurs! Abby sat with daddy and watched a video about how birds are related to dinosaurs, which had Abby completely fascinated. We saw the “living” Triceratops as well as all the fossils of triceratops at different stages in life. This time around, Ellie seemed even more excited and interested in the dinosaurs. I love the enthusiasm she shows now!
Abby and Daddy watching a video about birds and their connections to dinosaurs.
Sunset at Museum of the Rockies

After our walk through the dinosaurs it was time to go. We really didn’t want to leave, but it was getting late and the museum was closing. As always we had a blast and the girls learned a lot. All Abby could talk about the rest of the day were the building blocks and of course, the dinosaurs. You know you have had a good day when all your kiddos can talk about are the things they did!

Celebrating the New Year

New Years Eve
New Years Eve was another quiet and relaxing day. Shaun and I slept in as best we could, although the girls pretty much keep to a schedule which means being up by 7 (even in another time zone). We did some more shopping and outings around town. In the evening we picked up our traditional Chinese food dinner and enjoyed every bite of it. After dinner we played games with the girls, had long conversations and passed the time until we rang in the New Year. Almost all of us made it to midnight, except Ellie. She was the smart one and passed out cold on cozy blankets in front of the fire.
We hope that everyone had a safe and fun New Year. We hope that 2013 brings happiness, prosperity and wonderful things for you and your family. Enjoy the year and don’t let it slip by too fast! I know we plan to try and make it last for as long as we can.
Happy New Year from dream land!
Happy New Year from Abby! Dont worry, its only Martinelli’s Sparkling Apple Cider in her cup
Auntie Jillian enjoys a bit of the bubbly to ring in the New Year.

New Years Day

New Years Day was once again full of tradition. We slept in a bit and then headed back over to Grandpa and Grandma’s house for our traditional Eggs Benedict brunch. We were lucky the weather was beautiful too. This allowed for Aunt Diane, Uncle Barry and Grandma Prueter to come over and join us for brunch. As always, brunch was wonderful and I was amazed to watch Ellie, my picky eater, shovel down nearly two helpings of poached eggs, ham, olives and English muffin. Kudos to you Grandpa Jerry!

After brunch we sat down for another belated Christmas and opened presents from Grandpa Prueter and the gang. The girls loved their presents! They each received a tie-dyed stuffed moose and new pillow cases and a doll that keeps the monsters out from under the bed. However, in true child fashion, the hit of the day were their cards from Diane and Barry. Nothing beats a card that sings and dances! I think those will be hidden in a box on the way home.

A little snuggle time before having some yummy food.
Opening presents with Great Grandma Laura. Sorry about the game on TV Shaun.  Just pretend the score isn’t visible.
Great Grandma Laura opening up her present from the girls.
Ellie really loves her moose!
Their Christmas cards were the hit of the day… As you can tell.
Opening presents with Auntie Diane.
When all was said and done, Abby was back to her “Reader Book”

The remainder of the day was occupied with family and football. We enjoyed one anothers company and spent time catching up. Once again it was a simple day but it was nice to do simple things with family. I know we were sad to see Barry, Diane and Grandma leave but the good news is that we will be having dinner with them in just a few days! Better yet, my awesome cousin Mike and his fiance’ will be there too! So much to look forward to.

A Day of Simple Things

Today was an easy day. We didn’t plan or do too much other then spend time with Grandma, Grandpa and Auntie Jillian. All of the girls in the family went out and did a bit of shopping. I was hoping to find some of the same bargains that I did last Christmas when we were up but alas… nothing.
Abby and Ellie were content with shopping, playing with their new tablets and playing in the snow again with Grandpa Jerry. It was a day that went by too fast but we enjoyed it so much. We didn’t do anything in particular, but that’s just what we needed!
Enjoying her “reader book” in the window seat of the hotel.
Sitting at Grandma and Grandpa’s kitchen table, doing a bit of coloring. She was playing coy with Grandpa.
Abby the snow bunny
Two little snow bunnies and an almost full moon. 🙂
Trying to make snowballs with snow that was so perfectly cold, it slipped through their hands like sugar.
Taking a walk with Grandpa in the snow.
Giving the sled a try.