Christmas Eve/Day Hotel

Julia made sure we knew all the important things about the hotel.

It has become a tradition for us to enjoy a hotel room on Christmas Eve. This year took us to the Springhill Suites in Council Bluffs. It was nearly vacant, with only five other vehicles in the parking lot. And that was just fine with us.

As usual, getting the girls to bed was a chore. Julia and Olivia insisted on being noisy and having a late night pillow fight, even as Santa was on final approach to our area. (We were tracking him via the NORAD website.) Overall, it was quite enjoyable and the breakfast was very good. Emily was not with us, as she was working the late shift at Aksarben Cinema.

We enjoyed a nice hotel room in Council Bluffs.

It wasn't long before it had that "lived in" look.

Veronica was clearly enjoying the bed.

Julia (left) and Olivia were a bit more crowded.

Lauren claimed the couch.

Breakfast was amazingly good.

Veronica (left) and Olivia enjoyed breakfast at the bar.

Julia made sure housekeeping knew we enjoyed the room.

Fun With Dad

A stop at the playground was in order before Veronica's visit to the dentist.

Veronica was able to enjoy a nice day off from school today. But with a visit to the dentist scheduled, it was not all fun and games.

Well, there were fun and games. Veronica and I ate lunch at Freddy's Custard in Council Bluffs, then hit the playground at the Harrah's Sports Complex (where we met another elementary school-age girl who was apparently playing hooky).

Then it was time to head off to see Dr. Rensch, where she (thankfully) got a good report about her teeth.

Finally, A Ride Outside

My view (looking north) along the trail in Council Bluffs.

Before Thursday, the last time I had ridden my BMC outside was Feb. 9. In other words, a long time ago. So getting outside to ride in 50-degree weather was quite a treat yesterday. And then, again today, in 60-degree temperatures.

It was a nice feeling, riding around and not having to haul about 25 extra pounds. And all that riding on the trainer this winter has gotten me in pretty good shape. In fact, on today's ride, I came across a bunch of teens who were riding casually along. There were about five or six in front, with another girl trailing about 50 meters behind them – and struggling.

I rode up on her and asked if she was with them. She said, "yes." I told her it was awful they left her behind and told her to stop pedaling. I grabbed her seat and started pushing her toward them. A few of them looked back and saw her coming as I pushed her straight through their group and into the lead. I'm guessing she felt like a million bucks and the star of the show. It was all quite fun.