Snowy Christmas

We got to experience a white Christmas! When we got into Portland on Saturday morning (12/20) there was light snow and our concern was the drive up to Seattle. Here's what I-5 looked like in Portland. We were originally going to stay with Gabe & Miche, but then we thought that Maile and Brannon were closer and safer for us that day. Mom & dad's Subaru Outback was great! We didn't need chains, but it was scary. Luckily Bear is an awesome snow and ice driver.

This is what the road looked like on the way to Maple Valley. At Maile and Brannon's we got familiar with Rock Band and some various animated series. Thank you Mai & Brannon!!! We had a blast!









We made it to the Seahawks game! We got to see Gabe & Geoff (sp?), the Zooks, Wellmans, & VanderLindens. It was extremely cold and fun! The only part that was trying was on the way home, sitting on the Sounder (commuter train) waiting for the rail folk to thaw out the switches. We inched our way past Quest field for 45 minutes! We were lucky to be sitting inside a warm train, though. If we didn't get on the train when we did, we would of waited out in the cold for who knows how long!






Christmas day we still had snow! Here is our nephew and dog niece, Ellie.

Jenny & Chijo let us have a free hotel night in Portland at the Hotel Monaco. It had really nice decor in the lobby and they had a happy hour from 5-6 in the lobby with free Merlot, Reisling, & various beers like Deschutes brewery's Jubelale (one of Bear's favorites) and Snoqualmie Wildcat IPA (Bear really liked that one, too!) It is also pet friendly and while we were having our wine we saw many cute doggies and there was some lady who is like a "Dog Talker/Whisperer" that was circulating talking to owners and their dogs. In the lobby you can see a large dog bet that belongs to Art the "director of pet services". Pretty cute. After happy hour we headed to the Red Star tavern which is conveniently attached to the hotel and had dinner and drinks, again courtesy of Jenny & Chijo. We are very spoiled by family. The must have dish there is the Short Rib Pot Roast, Bear loved it!

Here we are at Zoolights in Portland!