Another benefit to this wonderful, festive time of year is added family time. Life can be so busy with schedules, work, and responsibilities. So at this time of year, from Christmas through New Year's, with school holidays in progress across the country, it is comforting to see families enjoying fun activities. Colorado provides ample opportunities and places for those seeking winter activities.

This image was captured at Evergreen Lake which has been rated as one of the top ten ice rinks by Sunset Magazine. Families and friends gather here for fun. And on New Year’s Day there is a Polar Bear Plunge which draws people to extreme fun in a fundraiser benefiting Drive Smart and the Evergreen Park & Recreation District Special Needs Program.

Quality time together with those you love is a treasure, and I am grateful for these opportunities. It was more enjoyable being out on this photo opportunity with my husband along.

“You can kiss your family and friends good-bye and put miles between you, but at the same time you carry them with you in your heart, your mind, your stomach, because you do not just live in a world but a world lives in you.”– Frederick Buechner
Peace.