The morning was still and clear: a perfect time to head out to the mountains north of Albuquerque and for Caroline and Scott to try out snowshoeing for the first time.  We loaded our rented snowshoes and other gear into the van and after a yummy group breakfast at Weck's Restaurant, friends Naomi, Petra and Tanya piled into the van with us and we headed north into snow country.  It was pretty nerve-racking at first, after driving for more than an hour only to find dry roadways and snow-less mountains.  But we persevered and finally came across the East Fork trail, marked with a small cross-country ski sign on a tree.  The snow looked more than plentiful - we were in business! 

Our party, headed up by Naomi, was comprised of three novices and two experienced snowshoe-ers.  Being two of the three novices, we weren't sure exactly what to expect; snowshoeing always seemed like something that, while handy if you need to walk across snow you might sink into, a lot of work that can be avoided by not snowshoeing.  In some places, it definitely seemed helpful to have the snowshoes, like we were moving with greater ease by not breaking through the top frozen layer of snow.  Since we were mostly walking on a frequently traversed path, however, most of the snow was pretty well packed.  Scott, of course, needed to spend time off the path to make full use of his equipment, and was surprised just how far you can sink into the snow even while wearing snowshoes.  Although fairly easy to move about in - after all, Naomi was able to show us dance poses and Scott was (nearly) able to click his snow-shoe-heels - both (and only) Caroline and Scott managed to trip themselves and fall over into the snow (once each).  Fortunately, no greater injuries were sustained than the blisters on our heels.  It was a great day, and all in all, a good time was had by all participants.  The trail, flanked by tall evergreens on either side as far as the eye could see, was snowy, serene and beautiful and we were even  treated to a little sunshine on our return trek.  Although not as difficult as Caroline had initially feared, it was quite a workout and proved to be a perfect post-holiday outing - thanks for the great idea, Naomi!

Naomi, Petra, Scott & Caroline are ready to hit the trail!

Naomi & Petra pose one more time

Scott & Petra practice their tandem snowshoeing

and decides to keep going...

and going...

Naomi takes a 'snow angel' break

Petra treks on through the trees