Christmas in South Dakota

We had the joy of visiting relatives in South Dakota this Christmas.  This time the weather cooperated.  We even got to enjoy 40 degrees one day in Sioux Falls, before it went back to typical sub-zero temps. I think the highlight for Penny was spending time with her cousins and getting to see the Disney movie "Frozen".  It was very a fitting title given that we were spending time on the frozen "tundra" of the northern plains.  Here are a few photo highlights from our week.

On our way home we stopped by Cabela's, where Penny could see the many mounted animals.  It was scary that Jay fell on ice outside of Cabela's.  But, thankfully, nothing was broken and he didn't hit his head.  Just a few achy muscles reminded him to be extra careful to watch out for ice hidden under newly fallen snow.

We also stopped by the famous "Wall Drug", where I got a cup of coffee for 5 cents and we got to see all kinds of different things related to the Wild West, including mounted Jackalopes.

Then we went on to Rapid City, where we braved the cold by going outdoors to see the Christmas light display at Storybook Island.  It was really beautiful and they played such wonderful Christmas carols.  But, after the chilly outing we were more than ready for the hot tub at our hotel!

We cautiously ventured up the ice stairs to get at least one photo shot of the famous dinosaurs overlooking Rapid City.  It was fun seeing the T-Rex decked out in his winter garb.

Then we took a scenic drive through the Black Hills on our way back home.  We even got to see Mount Rushmore.

It was a fun trip.  But, we were very glad to arrive home on New Years' Eve.  It was good to be back in our own beds, where Penny and Jay could rest, as they both started coming down with colds.  Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all!