Winter Camping - burrr!

I know it sounds crazy, camping in the mountains in the middle of January, but it's really not so bad.  Sure there was snow on the ground, and yes, I pillaged my way through a whole bag of toe warmers in less than 12 hours, but I think there are few things better in life than intentionally trading the hustle and bustle for the fresh air, simplicity and serenity of the wilderness; especially if you can share that experience with good friends!

Clockwise from top left: Joe, Steph, Eric, Chloe, Josh, Becky.  

Unfortunately, Brandon couldn't make it due to his new work schedule =(

After kick-starting our adventure with an artery clogging breakfast at the Coyote Cantina, we sweated our way uphill for a few hours with 40 lbs. of gear strapped to our backs, and then finally set up camp despite numb appendages just in time to watch the sun set behind the trees and frozen lake.

The boys "Tebowing" it before the hike (that's a Bronco's football reference, for all you non-Denver fans)

That night we stayed warm by slipping on our down booties, huddling together (dog included) into one 3-person tent, and drinking some good ole honey whiskey.  After the wind died down, we strolled across the frozen lake for some stargazing and general mischief.

I loved snapping pictures of Chloe, who looked eerily primal in the woods when not sporting her harness pack.

The following day we woke - fingers and toes still attached - and headed to another lake for an afternoon of ice skating, sledding and pirouettes.

Good times. You should join us next time!