Happy New Year!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and that you are looking forward to the new year.  2011 seemed to fly by, as they all seem to do lately!  Mark and I spent a very quiet Christmas in our home.  I did go on a hike the 24th but other than that we just chilled out here and enjoyed it.  I made chili for Christmas Eve and French Dip sandwiches on Christmas with my new crock pot, a gift from Mark.  I also received a Shark hand held vac.  That is the problem with two homes....what you have and are used to in one, you want in the other, too!  I also received some money for shopping.  Well, he might have said it was for my savings account but I am not certain I heard that part correctly!

Christmas Day Drew and Kayley skyped with us and showed us what Santa brought them.  It appears they won't be bored over the rest of the holiday.  Plenty to play with from what we saw!  It was so much fun seeing their excitement but we didn't talk long...there were toys that needed playing!

We are still hanging around the home this week.  I did hike yesterday and today, though.  I think I am addicted to that activity.  I never, ever tire of the view or the challenge.  Today a helicopter was hovering over the mountain and circled it several times.  I hope no one fell or had a heart attack!  The news this morning talked about all the rescues they have had to do because of all the visitors going on hikes and they aren't used to the terrain.  They are falling, breaking body parts or becoming ill from the elevation, etc.  The majority of the rescues have been on Camelback Mountain which is NOT for the faint of heart or for those out of shape.   I have hiked it once with Megan and once with sister Sharon and have no desire to do it again.  I am not tempting my luck!

The Hawkeyes play in the Insight.com bowl in Tempe Friday night.  We went to it last year but I think we will pass this year.  I think the Sooners will have their way with my Hawks and I just couldn't stand to see that happen.  Mark and I plan to go to the pre-game parties and fun for awhile but then will come home to watch the game.

I hope all of you have a safe and Happy New Year and a fantastic 2012!

Some very random pics:

via Megan's phone:  Drew very happy with Grandpa's gift!

Having fun at Greasewood Flats on a Saturday afternoon with friends.

via Andy's cell phone:  Mr. and Mrs. Claus

One of the trails I hike on North Mountain