Mt. Baker/Artist Point

I had another lovely weekend with Jessamyn and Scott. On Friday, we visited Scott's sister Karen and her daughters Olivia and Sofia. (sorry, no pics). Jess and Scott picked up Thai to go at Thai Ginger in Factoria (http://www.thaiginger.com/). We also enjoyed the last of the huckleberry pie that Mrs. Annie made for Scott's birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SCOTT!

On Saturday, we headed up to Mt. Baker for a snowshoe trip to Artist Point. Artist Point is accessible by car in summer to view Mt. Baker, Mt. Shuksan, and vistas of the North Cascades. In the winter time, the location can be reached only by a long trek over snow. Jessamyn and Scott busted out their snowshoe gear and a new ice ax for this hike.

The day brought for a challenging hike as there were some steep sections with fresh snow. Incoming clouds brought in near "white-out" conditions as it became difficult to see. A couple passed the three of us on their way down, and after a few more minutes we also followed suit.

After descending to a lower elevation, Jess broke out her new ice ax. Scott and I gave her some tips as we practiced glissade, self-arrest, front pointing, and the french step. On our way down the mountain, we posed for photos.
"HOMIE CEDRIC ROCKS"

We stopped for photo's in these small caves between the upper and lower lodges. Then it was off to Graham's Restaurant in Glacier (http://www.grahamsrestaurant.com/). We had biers, frambois, and din din. I especially appreciated the Norwegian flag hanging near the kitchen.
These trips into mountains remind me of home.

It's so fun to play in the snow with Jessamyn and Scott!