Snow Fun Part I

So as a holiday recovery strategy, Heather and I decided to get out in the snow.  Last weekend we loaded up the truck with dog and snowshoes, somewhat guiltily dropped Cailan off at grandma's, and headed up to the Mesa.  The weather was forecast for some clouds and a chance of snow in the afternoon, so we tried to get going a bit early.  We need not have worried: once we left the low altitude thermal inversion that frequently turns GJ into a cold, hazy hole, we entered a magical land of brilliant sunshine and warm temperatures.  The Mesa was in perfect condition and there were NO other people when we started (we eventually found a few folks).  Our last two snowshoe attempts were not particularly successful, due mostly to Cailan not having fun.  This had something to do with his grandma visit today...

One of the most unusual features was the enormous ice crystals that had formed in some areas.  They looked like full sized feathers made of ice.

As I mentioned, we had the place to ourselves for most of the day.

After I finished marveling at the crystals on the ground, I looked up to find some nice ones on the branches.

It's probably due to the running, but Heather is much more fit for snowshoeing than I am.  As a result, I frequently "hang back" to take pictures (read as: "rest").  At least it lets me try artsy shots...

It was easily our best snowshoeing day in years.  That said, the little man will go with us next time...