Surviving the Cold

So. this week, I wanted to share what the Minnesota weather has been like. Up until about three days ago, Casey and I thought it wasn't so bad, and quite frankly all these Minnesotans were a little bit of wusses. Well, we were wrong, they were all just in a bad mood because they knew what was coming. If anyone watches the world news, I'm sure you heard about the front that made its way from Alaska to the wonderful state of Minnesota. This front decided to hang out for a little bit (about 90 hours to be exact) and make our lives miserable!! My first experience with it is when my gas tank almost froze over. I like to push my car and wait to get gas even after the light has come on, but up here in the cold country, you can't do that, because your gas tank will freeze. That morning, I broke down and filled up my tank, since I didn't want to be stranded on the road in negtive FIFTY wind chill....and no need to double take that temperature, because I will gladly say it again...NEGATIVE FIFTY!! The moral of this story is don't push your car to the limits in the cold, it just can't handle it. Luckily, that front is gone after spending 90 hours in below zero weather, we are back to normal with beautiful snow flurries, and the warm weather of 20 degrees. And for all of you Floridians, no one better complain to us that it is cold. :)

Taking advantage of the sun! - and GO GATORS!

This weekend Casey, the dogs, and I decided to take advantage of the wonderful weather we were having and go on a hike. While it was a little cold (about 20 degrees) it was so much fun! For those of you that know us, you know Casey and I love the outdoors, and love to hike. Well, this time was no different. It was amazing to see the snow cover the trees, and ever cooler to see the lakes and river frozen. While the river was mostly frozen, there were a few thin spots where Kodi and Aspen fell in, but not to worry, it is only about an inch deep. I, of course, start freaking out, until I realize they are fine, and love every bit of it. As we were hiking up a path, that is definately harder to do in the snow, we get a glimse of one of the largest white tails we have ever seen. Unfortunately, we were not prepared, and missed a picture, but Kodi was definately on it's scent. Casey and Kodi went to look for it while Aspen and I took a break, and just enjoyed the solitude. Sometimes you forget how beautiful nature is, until you take a minute to just stop and take it all in. We are looking forward to going again, prehaps after next week, when the high is below zero. Until then, hopefully you enjoy the pictures... And yes, that is Aspen walking Kodi. As we all know, women are the bosses!

On a side note, as many know, the gators did play and win the national championship. We just wanted to let everyone know they were represented well up here in Minnesota. Lots of phone calls home, and even a few brewsky's were accounted for. I even rubbed it in at work, since most of them were rooting for the sooners. They didn't have much to say that Friday morning. :)

Happy New Year!

After a long and busy holiday season, it is finally back to normal. Don't get me wrong, we loved almost every second of it! We had our wedding shower with friends and family. Then, we ate Christmas Eve dinner at my cousins house. We woke up early to go open presents at my parents house,so we could get back just in time to open presents at the Smith house. Santa was very good to us at both houses, we have never felt luckier. It was wonderful to see Casey's grandparents Mama Jean and Papa, since we don't get to see everyone that often anymore. While we left just before the new year came in, Pops came up to drive Jamie's car back to Florida on New Year's Day. It was great to spend time with just him and be able to talk to him about everything. We had a wonderful time with his short visit, but it was hard to say goodbye in the morning. This year was a little harder to say goodbye, since we knew we wouldn't be seeing our family in 3 months, but living so far away also allows us to appreciate everyone just a little bit more. We appreciate what everyone did for us this year, and hope this new year treats everyone with as much love, health, and happiness as it has us so far. We look forward to seeing everyone in March, for the big celebration, until then, let's remember not to sweat the small stuff! Things could always be a little worse.