View from Molas Pass 10,900′ of Needle Mountains – click to enlarge and scroll left or right

Indian Summer lasted well into October this year, but the first snows arrived right on schedule.  We’ve had one more dump of snow since this photo last Monday so it’s time to think about going south for the winter.  However, we’re not leaving until after the end of the year this season because the Grandgirls are coming for Christmas in Durango.  First time we’ll dig out the Xmas ornaments since 2001.

We’re literally wrapping up projects, like the solar systems I’ve been helping install.  One solar system has passed inspection and one to go.  Our 4 year anniversary of a solar-powered condo was two weeks ago, so it’s fun to see friends getting to take advantage of the free electricity as well.  These array’s are going in at about $1 a watt, if they don’t have to pay the power company for line upgrades.

We’ve spent quite a bit of time up in Silverton getting units turned over in the Highlander and making a few renovations before winter sets in and the snow birds fly toward the equator. Also got to help Kurt retire his tri back onto the trailer for sale rather than sail. Don’t bother calling the number for Pilot Yachts, Tony hasn’t been seen back in the country since the days of Paracas.

Worth clicking to enlarge and panning left and right

Still managing to exercise daily before projects, and even got a hike in above Durango on a trail I’d never hiked.  Durango really is a special place to live if I’ve never mentioned it before.  We’ve got miles and miles of trails leaving from town for excellent hiking and biking like this one up to Raider Ridge on the north end the the city limits.  Two and a quarter miles including the 800′ up gets you some spectacular views.