Morning ritual

Most mornings I take Emma and Torin to a lovely trail that runs behind our house for a 45 minute hike.  In addition to wonderful trails through beautiful woods beside a river, there are also ground squirrels for added entertainment.  Occasionally we bump into a runner or mountain biker, but I generally like to believe this is our own secret place.

Hurry up, mom!

Emma in her spiffy pink coat

Most mornings we do two laps around the valley which is the best way I could possibly imagine to start the day.  Right now the river is pretty much frozen over with a whole flock of ducks paddling around in the one area where the running water keeps the surface from freezing over entirely.   Dang those ducks are hardy - even in minus 20 degree Celsius weather they are quacking and paddling around...probably thinking "Why don't you bring us some food??"

And when we get home, this is what happens...  Comas until noon!