The white edge of winter

 

Yesterday we went with the kids to cut their Christmas tree on the vast national forest land that surrounds the Methow Valley All you need is a $5 permit and follow a few simple rules. This has become their Thanksgiving weekend family tradition. 

Tom drove up a narrow road along the Chewuch (pronounced "chi-whack") River outside of Winthrop. We passed through miles of burn zone before reaching a good spot and cutting the perfect tree. The fun is in the hunt.

Truly the edge of wilderness, we all marveled at the enormous wolf prints. We are driving back to Seattle today. Bittersweet for me this time of year, as visits become less frequent.

I wanted to let you know that our dad entered hospice care at home yesterday. Only in Las Vegas can things happen so quickly and efficiently. And all thanks to my sister, Marji. Within a few hours they had already made him more comfortable with a hospital bed and delivered oxygen. He is resting in the family room, where he can see the sky through the high windows and look at Marji's beautiful Christmas tree. Our hearts are heavy, but what a blessing.