Snow Mountain Ranch Jan10

We, and several friends, enjoyed a blast of winter recreation at the YMCA of the Rockies Snow Mountain Ranch, in Colorado SW of Rocky Mountain National Park.  The snowshoeing and cross-country skiing were excellent with perfect conditions.  The Ranch trails were right outside our cabin, and in RMNP, just 1/2 an hour north, we relished in having Park trails pretty much to ourselves. We thoroughly enjoyed a full-moon sleigh-ride drawn by two beautiful Belgians that included hot chocolate and roasting marshmellows around an open fire.  There was ice and roller skating, foosball, ping-pong, lots of cabin games, and working jigsaw puzzles.  All the fun was always in sight of the spectacular snow-capped Rocky Mountains.  Inside our cozy cabin, we shared delicious meals and great stories and all agreed that this venue stays on the bucket list for a return visit.

Carlsbad Dec09

It was the "Christmas on the Pecos" river boat ride why we and some friends took our RVs to Brantley Lake State Park just north of Carlsbad, NM.  You would think December in southern NM would be warmer than at home in Edgewood.  NOT.  In fact, the whole time, temps were close to, and even broke, low temperature records.  It was flat out COLD.  But, in spite of a few frozen water 'issues', we had a great time, even did a hike at Sitting Bull Falls.  The camaraderie of friends and festive spirit of "Christmas on the Pecos" made this RV adventure memorable and lots of fun.

Coyote Creek / Angel Fire Sep09

Antsy to RV, we parked at Coyote Creek State Park for fall colors and a long overdue visit with our friends the Koehlingers.  Coyote Creek is a lovely campground nestled in the canyons south of the Moreno Valley and Angel Fire, NM.  During the few days of our visit, we saw quite a few elk and wild turkey, and a variety of birds. 

The visit with our friends included a day at Rick & Virginia's almost at the top of Angel Fire Ski Resort.  Their home is called a 'Ski-in, Ski-out'.  Just a few dozen yards out the back door to the slopes.  Swoosh down, ride the lift back up to the top, swoosh back down to the back door.  You're home.  We hiked to the top to over 10,000 feet and had chilly, but incredible, 360 degree views of Angel Fire and the Moreno Valley far below.  What a location for a home!  Boundless opportunities to experience the beauty and wildlife of northern New Mexico.  We loved visiting our Koehlinger friends, including Chris, Kelly, Sasha, who is such a joy, and precious baby Grace.