New Year's Day Hike

We had a lot of fun bidding farewell to 2009 and welcoming 2010.  On New Year's Eve we traveled to Denver for a delicious Indian dinner of Korma's, Masala's, Vindaloo's, and coconut Naan.  After impregnation, we allowed our food babies to properly gestate by returning home and watching a movie followed by playing games and eating more party food!  We had a great time as a family.

The next morning (almost afternoon??) we arose and decided to enjoy the sunshine and somewhat warm weather (40's!!) by heading to Chautauqua Park on the south western edge of Boulder for some hiking.  It was nice of Leo to pull us up the snowy paths, but scary when he kept wanting to pull us down the icy downhills.   Our hike provided us with ample opportunities for great photo's as well:

 This is the view from the base of the 3rd Flatiron.  Notice Leo is smartly wearing his orange bandana for warmth.

This would be a great spot to stop and do some bouldering, but that should probably wait until summer.

 Some spots were heavily wooded and cold due to the shade they provided.

But all of a sudden you would emerge from the trees to see some pretty fantastic views.  From this ridge we could see the city of Boulder (bottom left area) and the University of Colorado (orange buildings in bottom center).

Lisa and I with a view of the 3rd and 2nd Flatirons.

Nate took the above photo.  Below is what happens after you hand a camera to Nate.

It always seems as though the sun sets early in Boulder since the town is overshadowed on the west by the Rocky Mountains which arise suddenly.