Black Friday in the Black Hills

Hello from South Dakota!

It was a little tricky getting out of Denver in the snow this morning, but after crossing over into Wyoming, the roads and the weather cleared.

The Beverly Hillbunnies hit the road early!

We made it into Rapid City, SD early this afternoon, dumped Loo Loo Bell at the pet-friendly hotel, and high-tailed it to Mt. Rushmore. We haven't been in 10 years, since we moved back to da mainland from Hawaii.

And when I say "dumped the rabbit," I mean that it took us a good 20 minutes to get her settled. You guys have seen this process before, but let's take a minute to refresh your memory so you can fully appreciate the chaos and drama that is owning a rabbit.

Patiently waiting while daddy sets up her big cage.

Ready...

Set...

Go!

Now get outta here so I can enjoy the peace and quiet.

We made it to Mt. Rushmore in the early afternoon, just a couple of hours before sunset. There are trails that wind at the base of the mountain, allowing you to see each of the presidents' faces framed in the trees, but in the like sub-zero temperature, the thought of that was a bit much. I'll just recall whatever memories I can from a decade ago.

Visitors walk down the avenue of flags to see the monument. Each state is represented by its flag and the year of its inclusion into the union.

The stones in front are left over from blowing up the mountainside with dynamite.

Look at the detail in the eyes.

See the rim and the bridge of his glasses? So incredible.

After exploring around in the freezing cold for a while, we walked around downtown Rapid City and wound up eating Tex Mex. You can't go wrong with some spicy deliciousness.

I have to point something out. See G's fork? In the background? Poised for a bite? The poor man is trained to wait until I snap a picture before diving in. Husband points.

When we rolled back into the hotel room and face planted on the bed, G commented that it was only 6:30. SIX-THIRTY???? It feels like it should at least be midnight.

Ok, back to Virginia Woolf paper research. For like 5 minutes, who am I kidding, and then I'll be snoring away. Mrs. Dalloway will understand.

Another day of exploring tomorrow! Hope you peeps are enjoying the holiday weekend!