So, its 6:20 am on Wed. November 5th. We have a new president. I'm really glad that McCain announced defeat so early and with so much grace. No dragging it out.

I started voting in 1976 after I turned 18. I hardly remember what I felt then, but now, I'm glad to be seeing the country make such a historic choice as Obama. (Yes, I'm a Dem) I talked to Elin about why she has been such a big supporter of Obama and her response surprised me. She doesn't look at it as a black/white issue or experience vs non-experience, she told me that he can overcome all the problems just because he has been called bad names which has given him a different "tilt", and that has made him strong enough to overcome all the biases and do good for this country and the world. She is such a gem. Her Social Studies class did their voting and only one child voted for McCain out of 26.

McKenzie Pass closed this morning for the winter. One of the shortest open seasons it has ever had. Cascade Lakes Loop has also closed. WE GOT SNOW in the mountains! I could hardly believe it on Monday driving home from Bend when the clouds lifted and I could see the white stuff in the Ochoco Mountains. Chains are required on Santiam & Hood this morning!