https://i.imgur.com/4HmisiU.jpg

Sorry about the lack of posts today. I was talked into a trip up to Timberline Lodge. Of course none of us had the good sense to check the weather report, otherwise we'd have known that there was a snow storm happening. We wound up having to stop to put on chains halfway up.

The right tire's chain came off twice. We made it within a few hundred feet of the parking lot entrance when we lost our momentum, having to stop because of several stuck cars ahead of us. One guy apparently stopped and couldn't get going again, which caused the same thing to happen to the guy behind him and so on.

A massive snow plow was sent out to clear the accumulated snow in front of us, but while some cars with 4WD were able to make it, we just couldn't quite do it. It was a shame to come so far only to have to turn back with the end literally within sight, but that's what we wound up doing.

There's a Max train tunnel that goes into a mountain, a stop inside, and an elevator up through the mountain that lets out on top at the zoo. I wonder if such a thing would be possible for Mt. Hood? It would certainly make it more accessible for people without SUVs. 

Anyway on the way down, we stopped near Government Camp at a little coffee shop to get hot cocoa. It seemed unacceptable after all to come so far and leave empty handed. I got to feel like a big manly man putting on the chains for the two women in the car, so that's something. 

I wish I'd brought my heated snow pants, boots and gloves. I had my heated jacket but that wasn't enough by itself. I didn't even bring ear muffs or goggles as I assumed we'd only be walking between the car and the lodge. It's inspired me to add a bunch of stuff to my Volt's rooftop storage container specifically for snowy conditions.

https://i.imgur.com/4tk9Ah4.jpg

We didn't take my Volt, but rather Amanda's van, which is usually better for driving in snow. The good company lifted my spirits somewhat despite the fact that each time I got out to put the damn chains back on the right tire, when I got back in all the snow on my clothing melted, soaking it.

Snow is bullshit and I don't abide it. Abolish snow forever. One of these days though, we'll make a new attempt to get up the mountain if only out of spite. I had really been looking forward to cozily lounging by a big window in the lodge, sipping cocoa and watching big fluffy snowflakes drifting down from the clouds. 

Anyway, that's why there's no video or story chapters today. Expect business as usual to resume tomorrow now that I'm back in civilization with all of my fingers and toes intact.

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*<sup>Stay Cozy!</sup>*