Happy Harley Holidays, everyone!
Here’s what my December 24 looked like: Sarah and I got in 18 holes of golf. Then, I went for a pre-Santa ride in the Rockies.
We didn’t play 18 holes, that’s for you sun worshippers in La Quinta. The courses here in Colorado are closed this time of year, but they’re very walkable. So today, we walked the entire Aspen Glen golf course, where we’re living while our house is under construction nearby. It took us two hours and eight minutes to walk 18 holes; we covered 6.24 miles. Fitbit-worthy.
On the back nine at Aspen Glen, on Christmas Eve. That’s Mount Sopris in the background: 12,966 feet. It should be in pretty much every photo, and the view from your back yard, if you can swing it.
Next, I fired up the Harley and rode into Carbondale. Why? Pretty much so I could say I rode the Rockies on a chilly winter day. My ride covered 12 miles, round trip, in 34-degree weather. Riding the Rockies on Christmas Eve. Yeah, baby!
Great day for a ride. Or for finishing your Christmas shopping. Already figured out what I want for Christmas next year: heated grips for the bike. Seriously. #coldhands,warmheart
On Christmas Eve, I rode six miles, to River Valley Ranch — in Carbondale. This view is right next to the lot where we’re building our home. Yes, that’s Mount Sopris in the background.
***
So, that’s what happened today, on Christmas Eve.
This blog is normally a description of beautiful roads I’ve ridden and unhealthy food I’ve consumed along the way. Today’s blog post is a bit different.
As you may have noticed, I’ve been on blogging hiatus since ending my last Harley trip in Carbondale on August 15.
Quite a lot has happened since then. We became permanent Colorado residents, making Carbondale our home. We now have Colorado drivers licenses, and Colorado plates on our vehicles. We’ve watched our new home being built, and are looking forward to moving in some time in the spring (no pressure, Kent and George). We’re gradually adjusting to life in the Rockies. We miss our old friends in the desert, but are pretty sure they’ll find Carbondale a fine place to visit.
Today, on Christmas Eve, I thought I’d take you on a trip, metaphorically anyway. It’s just a simple way of bringing you up to date on what’s been happening in our lives since mid-August, the date of my last blog post.
***
In August, on the San Francisco side of the Golden Gate Bridge. We hiked across the bridge, both directions.
We spent the summer in San Rafael, California, living with my cousin Rich, who was kind enough to open his home to me, Sarah, Lucy and Betsy — until our rental in Carbondale was available. Eleven weeks of unconditional hospitality. We took advantage of the proximity to the Pacific Ocean, knowing it may be some time before we have a chance to get salt in our hair and sand in our toes again.
Got sand in our toes at Stinson Beach.
***
While we were in Northern California, work on our new home in Carbondale continued. Almost every day, our builder (Key Elements Construction) posted photos on a website so we could track the progress. As you may know, we’re calling the house our “Cozy Carbondale Cottage.”
It’s been fun watching the house become a home.
Yes, that’s a ridge beam, and those are rafters. The bluest skies you’ve ever seen are not in Seattle, they’re in Colorado.
Our great room will be a nice space, with a fantastic view of the mountain.
***
On September 14, we said goodbye to San Rafael, and headed for Colorado. After an overnight in Elko, Nevada, we arrived in Carbondale on a beautiful almost-autumn afternoon.
We immediately checked out the homesite. It looked a lot like our builder’s photos, but we finally got to be in the frame.
Here’s Sarah, showing off the view from the Guest Bedroom. Best view in the house. Nice mountain in the background. Lucky guests!
We’ve had a good time exploring the local area — the Roaring Fork Valley. There are breathtaking views around every corner. It’s almost like being on a Harley ride.
Here’s Sarah, on the famed Satank Bridge, just outside of Carbondale. Love the red mountain in the background.
More of the Satank Bridge, which spans the Roaring Fork River.
We hiked up Red Hill, where Colorado Highways 82 and 133 meet, just at the North end of Carbondale.
The view from Red Hill, looking south toward Mount Sopris. Quite spectacular.
***
Our cats, Betsy and Lucy, seem to be enjoying life in Colorado. They are fascinated with the view, with the deer in our back yard, and the change of scenery — it’s their first time out of California.
The girls admire the view of Mount Sopris. Who wouldn’t?
Betsy has decided she likes sitting by the fire, basking in the Colorado sunshine.
Lucy found her favorite spot, on a faux animal fur throw, from Pier One (it was at the rental house when we moved in). That’s my cousin, Rich, in the background. First cousin, once removed. Anyone know what that is?
***
We’ve had a number of visitors here in Carbondale. They can confirm we are actually here. Our hospitality “brand” is the same as it was in La Quinta: Five-star Quality, Zero-star prices.
My cousin Rich visited in December. He flew to Aspen, and rode the bus in to Carbondale (and back). Thought it was the best deal on the planet: free plane ride, free bus!
John Tracy visited from Alaska, along with his wife Donna and son, Cole. We think he’ll be back.
The McBrides visited from Palisade, Colorado’s peach and wine capital.
We had a lovely dinner at our house with Sarah Murray (what a name coincidence!), her husband Clay, and their cute twins, Si and Jesse.
***
We’ve been trying to walk most every day. The exercise routine is a bit reduced, compared to what it was in California, but there’s good reason. On November 2, Sarah had rotator cuff surgery at the world-famous Steadman Clinic in Vail.
At the Steadman Clinic, pre-surgery. Sarah and Gronk now have something in common. Sarah may sign her golf shirt, and send it to the clinic for framing, to be hung in a conspicuous place.
The morning after surgery. Looking good!
Only days before, Sarah and I played our last round of golf for the year. On October 27, we checked out the course at River Valley Ranch, where our new home is being built.
Here’s Sarah, crushing it on the 14th hole. We thought we’d never play golf in anything but shorts and a short-sleeved shirt … but hey, we’re in Colorado now. That’s our house, in white, at the end of the fairway. It’s a good target off the tee, but un-reachable — unless you’re Justin Thomas.
***
We’ve managed to ride the Harley a few times, and always, stop somewhere with a Mount Sopris view. The mountain is just a few feet shy of 13,000 feet — and very photogenic.
Back in September, before there was snow on the mountain.
In October, the mountain looks better with snow on it — and with Sarah in front of it.
A cool November afternoon.
The view from Aspen Glen.
Also from Aspen Glen. Love Sarah’s sunglasses. Walmart!
***
Finally, a few wintry shots, then it’s time to get ready for Santa’s arrival in Carbondale.
Here’s one that has December written all over it:
Um, yes … looks like December, but it was actually early October in Aspen. That’s pretty much all the snow we’ve had; it’s probably the worst season for skiing in 40 years!
Christmas tree lighting in downtown Carbondale.
Merry Christmas, from the White House Pizza in Carbondale.
***
Well that’s it. A rather unusual blog post, considering I’m a Harley travel blogger. Never thought I’d do a holiday letter online. Thank you, Al Gore, for making it possible.
Whatever.
Happy Holidays to all and to all a good night. Hope Santa is exceedingly good to you, unless of course, you’re one of my Jewish friends or family — in which case I hope Harry Hanukkah took good care of you earlier this month.
Look forward to seeing you in 2018, here in Carbondale, or wherever you may be.
Let’s ride. Vroom, vroom!
Gary
P.S. We woke up to a White Christmas! Every little child’s dream. Here’s the view from our patio at 7:45 on Christmas morning.
A White Christmas at 59 Primrose Road in Carbondale!
Riding With Gary 
Thx for blog. Enjoyed hearing about ur doings. Send pic of house. It must be lockable (closed in) by now
Merry Christmas
Tina and Ray
LikeLike
It’s lockable, but we’ll unlock it for you, Tina!
LikeLike
Gary great blog and just glad to see you two are so happy!! Where is Sara’s Yoga Studio? Enjoy the holidays and have a wonderful 2018 in your new digs!!
Rich and Paula
LikeLike
Good to hear from you, Rich. No yoga for a while — gotta recover from shoulder surgery first. Hope to see you and Paula here one of these days.
LikeLike
Gary/Sarah,
Very cool !!!! Hope you have a Great Holiday Season and a Happy and Healthy New Year !!!!
We’re at La Costa for a quiet Christmas.
Cheers,
Steve
(707) 246-4355 sweiss@mc-sw.com
>
LikeLike
If Mama Bear is there, hard to imagine you’ll have a quiet Christmas.
LikeLike
First, winter in the Rockies is no excuse for talking about a measly 12-mile ride. Get your gear on and ride, refuel, repeat! Hey, love that pizza shot. I expect not to hear Sarah’s scolding of our diets on the road anymore. Ha! Seriously, thanks for the update. Blessings to Sarah on her recovery. And Merry Christmas to you both!
LikeLike
To be fair, and might as well start now … how many miles did you ride today, Dave? Thought so. With that in mind, my 12-mile extravaganza isn’t looking so puny! Happy holidays to you, Gail, Nathan and Tess.
LikeLike
Ha! Actually more than 12 miles, but, to be fair, it was 74 California degrees. Stay warm friends!
LikeLike
Did. Not. Know. You. Rode. Yesterday. I take back everything I said about your wimpy ways. Two thoughts regarding your ride and other 12/24 activities: 1. Pics, or it didn’t happen. And 2. Did you sneak in any fly fishing? (Christmas Eve calls for a mini-decathlon of sporting endeavors)
LikeLike
Gary and Sara. Great blog with fabulous pictures. Thanks. New house and location look beautiful. I have played golf at Aspen Glen in the Habitat for Humanity Charity. Great organization and truly special setting. So Merry Christmas and a Happy Hanukah and enjoy all the savings on State Taxes. We had so many enjoyable grandkids for the Holidays and we are spending New Year’s at Oxnard Beach with son Ken and Family. Looking forward to more news from Co.
LikeLike
Happy Hanukkah, Don, and hi to Carole.
LikeLike
I’m reading this as I am cooking dinner (Yes, shocker!). So glad to hear you are there and doing well!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We miss you guys!!!!
MB
Mary Caldwell Sent from my iPad
>
LikeLike
What’s for Christmas Eve dinner, Mama Bear?
LikeLike
The BEST! Merry Christmas!!!
LikeLike
Merry everything!
LikeLike
Thanks for catch-up mg us up. You’re both looking great. We’re getting your snow in Camas/Vancouver WA. Actually just a covering but a lovely white Christmas with family. Back in the desert by 27th. Merry Christmas
Linda and Toby.
LikeLike
We woke up to a White Christmas this morning, Linda! You can’t have all the fun 🙂 Hi to Toby.
LikeLike
Sounds like it was a great day Gary! Took a short ride myself today…… to the store and to get gas. You and Sarah have a beautiful holiday and hope to ride with you again soon.
LikeLike
Merry Christmas, Scott. Glad you got out and rode on Christmas Eve. That’s two of us. 12/24 non-riders are just wimpy wannabees. Hope Santa is good to you. Let’s ride!
LikeLike
A very merry Christmas; Happy Hanukkah and a heathy New Year in your Cozy Carbondale Cottage.
LikeLike
Same to you, Judith. Hope you have a Christmas fit for a Queen — you, not that dottering old lady in Buckingham Palace!
LikeLike
Merry Christmas, Sarah & Gary! Miss you both so much… can’t wait to see the house finished. Glad you’re enjoying the process. Lots of love xxx
LikeLike
Miss you, too, Cassie. Loving Colorado. We’re having a White Christmas here (snowed all night, and woke up to a whiteout). Anything like that in La Quinta? Hope you and Nick can come visit some time. It’s a nice getaway.
LikeLike
Wow how special is that Christmas snow? I think God is smiling on you two. We on the other hand have snow but -4 the HIGH today with a dangerous windchill. Playing games with the family later today so we might just send you a video of our antics. Christmas “ cheer” involved 🤪
Love to you both xxoo
LikeLike
Welcome to Colorado, kids. I knew you would love it. Can’t wait for your visit this week. We have a very aggressive itinerary set up for you. Get some rest 😉
LikeLike
Aggressive? We were hoping to visit an aggression-free zone. Merry Christmas.
LikeLike
Merry Christmas and Harry(?) Hanukkah! Great holiday letter. Oh yes, the Tracy’s will be back. I’m guessing some summer soon.
The next couple of years should prove interesting. One more year of gainful employment, then sell the house and start the next chapter in Mesa. Though you guys make Carbondale look pretty tempting.
Visited Ken a couple of days ago. He has purchased a trailer you can fit two cars in back to back. He’s planning several trips to AZ with it. I’ll take at least one with him to get some of our toys down there.
Santa did his thing last night. Probably our last Christmas in Alaska. Have a great holiday and I hope we see you soon!
Love,
John and Donna
Awkwardly typed with one finger on an iPhone!
>
LikeLike
Last Christmas in Alaska? Maybe you could stay and just switch over to Hanukkah celebrations instead. Gotta love eight days worth of gifts. Being Jewish, or pretending, has its benefits. Hope to see you both soon.
LikeLike
We hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a HEALTHY and happy new year!!
Love the pics of your new abode being built.
Remember to send updates – we always love those.
Having 12 of us here for Christmas dinner – 25 pound turkey in oven, ham all the trimmings. Are you sure you don’t want to come back just for that?
Miss you smiling faces here.
XOXO, Jim and Barb
LikeLike
How do you get to the store with all that snow on the road? Say hi to the gang, and send us leftovers. We may not be able to eat for a while (no vehicles with snow tires, and only enough food to last for two weeks).
LikeLike
Fun to see your pix! Marry Christmas to you and Sarah. Hope you’ll be coming to LaQ this spring?
LikeLike
Spring skiing in La Quinta?
LikeLike
Wow.so fun reading your blogs……..hope Sarah heals quickly rotator is tuff recoup. Glad to see you two enjoying life.
Have a very Merry Christmas 🙂
LikeLike
Life’s good … and we’re forever grateful to you for placing Betsy on our doorstep. She loves Colorado! Who knew?
LikeLike
Your “videography” skills remain EXEMPLARY, whether describing a Harley ride or sending a “holiday greeting” update! It sounds like CO living is agreeing with you both (in spite of shoulder surgery-sorry, Sarah!), and it’s always a LITTLE easier to miss people when we know they’re in a “happy place”!! Happy Holidays, and keep those blogs coming (as well as holding that “guest room” for a Carbondale visit sometime!) xox Marde and Ole
LikeLike
The guest room booking sheet is filling up fast, Olsons. Get yourself a reservation at the Cozy Carbondale Cottage, put the top down on that hot rod, gas up at Costco, and we’ll see you in Colorado!
LikeLike
Merry Christmas Gary and Sarah, come to back the desert whenever you think you had enough of snow❌❤️❌❤️
LikeLike
Hey Salve … thanks for the desert invite. We’re just getting the hang of this snow stuff, so we’re not quite ready to leave. Yet. You might like it here. There’s even yoga! Namaste …
LikeLike
Nice Goin’ Gaaaahhrreeeeee!!!!!
>
LikeLike
So glad to hear from you and Sarah. It sounds like you’re really enjoying your new home in Colorado. I absolutely love the views of the mountains from your home. You really chose your location with great care. My Christmas holiday has been relatively low-key this year. I was glad to have an opportunity to visit with my daughter for five days in December and my son at Thanksgiving time. I’ve enjoyed Rich’s Company while he’s been recovering from his eye surgery. He’s looking much better these days. Wishing you a fabulous new year. Please keep me on your update list. I love hearing from you. Jo
Sent from my iPhone
>
LikeLike
Colorado is awesome. Glad you enjoy the views from our house. Wanna enjoy it even more? Plan a trip to Carbondale. We think you’d like it! (Now taking reservations for 2018-2020)
LikeLike
Thanks for the update. I must say the two of you are so photogenic! You guys cannot take a bad picture, loved all of them.
The two of you have been busy and it sounds exciting to be building a new home and being close to moving in soon. Sarah I hope that you are recovered from your surgery. Gary are you planning your trip for the summer with your Harley buds?
Have a Happy Safe New Year.
Deborah
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good to hear from you, Deborah. No plans yet for a 2018 summer trip with the Harley gang, but we hear July in La Quinta is fabulous. Any suggestions?
LikeLike
Hi Gary and Sarah, Sorry for not replying sooner to your great email blog. Loved hearing all about your exciting times and seeing your new and wonderful Home. Colorado is so perfect for you two and obviously your kitty cats too who seem to love their new scenery. Thank you again for always sharing your times with us both. I’ll reply for David too in case he never did?? – he loved hearing and seeing your new area and Home too. Best Wishes and Happy times for a wonderful Happy and especially Healthy New Year. Hugs to you both Lorraine and David PS love the view from your “guest” room😍
Sent from my iPhone
>
LikeLike
Well hi, Lorraine and Dave. So good to hear the sound of your voice, even if it is just typing on the internet. Glad you like the look of our guest room. Hope you and Dave come to Colorado and try it out sometime on your way to New England!
LikeLike