A Christmas to Remember

And I quote, "Mom, this will go down in the books as one of the best Christmases ever!"

We've talked for years about a destination Christmas.  Well this year--albeit last minute--we (sort of) planned a ski trip to New Mexico.  And by that I mean I planned a ski trip to New Mexico.  So not only do I accept the blame for poorly planned routes, I also claim the credit for a wonderful Christmas vacation.

Despite long hours in the car (my grandkids are the best travelers in the universe) and a few treacherous roadways, we had a very memorable holiday in the Sacramento Mountains.

Oh the weather outside is frightful,

But the fire is so delightful,

And since we've no place to go...

Let it snow,

let it snow,

let it snow.

33" base.  Ruidoso has already gotten over 67" so far this year!!!

Thanks goodness for Nintendo DS.

Jeff & Heather snowboarded.

 The rest of us preferred skis.

I didn't even miss the turkey and dressing OR the pumpkin pie!

This is Lauren's expression from the minute she gets up in the morning until she hits the sack.  Unless you interrupt her in mid-song.  Then she gives you the evil-eye.

Here are a few things we learned:

1.  Tire chains or 4-wheel drive is a must.

2.  Heavy duty trash bags will NOT hold up at a speed of 75 mph.  Bite the bullet and purchase or rent an enclosed carrier for the luggage rack.

3.  There are no towns/restrooms between Odessa, TX and Ruidoso NM.  (At least none worthy of a rest stop.)

4.  Phone signals are few and far between in New Mexico.

5.  Kids need ALL-DAY ski school.  Not just 90 minutes.

6.  As much as you may love coffee, the third cup is not worth the ordeal of removing layers of ski clothes in a tiny bathroom stall.

7.  Santa CAN find you in Ruidoso and doesn't need a chimney to enter the cabin. I know. Freaky.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Blevins!!!!!