Holidaze

 The Holidays absolutely flew by this year. But first things first, last Sunday Carlos did not come in to the lodge after a day on the trail like he always does. We didn't think too much of it and thought possible he was in a cabin. Next day no Carlos and the calls around and a search to see where he might be came up negative. Carols defines a man's best friend. There have been very few trail runs, mountain bike rides and kick and glides where Carlos did not join. Jonell said Carlos is the best pet ever. He truly is a charmer and an amazing dog with all the people that come to Maplelag. Word is out about his missing...hoping he returns home safely.

 

 Christmas eve over to Park Rapids to spend with Grandma Judy.

 Great family time.

 Lutefisk on the menu again. Prepared proper, quite doable.

 
 Despite the thin base, the skiing was just fine between Christmas and New Years. Able to set tracks on about 15km of trail and have a somewhat normal start to the season. Great to have Jake home and joing him for a handful of workouts.

 Last weekend I took Jon up north for three games vs Roseau, Warroad and Thief River Falls. All strong traditional northern hockey teams. It was a great trip with the team taking three wins. The opening game vs Roseau, Jon scored his 50th goal on the season en route to 8 goals total on the weekend. I didn't think I would be able to make it earlier in the season but with no new snow and a great staff to cover, I was able to sneak away. Love the hockey cultural and awareness in these towns. The clerk at the hardware store showing Jon how to check sticks proper.

  High end hockey sticks in a hardware store.
 
 In between games watched more hockey as Warroad was playing International Falls. Jon played with kids from both teams with the CanAm team and fun to watch them play.

Jake got in to giving lessons big time over the break. Helping mtbr Calvin Sanderg with skating.

 I took a bit longer this year with the up and down weather but the backyard rink finally got in to action.

Cheers to a great year!