I’m certain the ski resorts are ecstatic about this sudden change in weather. Resorts all over the mountain west will be opening this coming week in time for the Thanksgiving skiers. I was just thankful for a warm, dry car and reasonably dry roads as I made my way 45 minutes south of Pocatello to the Arbon Branch for a speaking assignment this morning.

I must say, though, that it was a pretty drive. The first real snow for this season is a significant change from the gray-brown colors we’ve been seeing for the past couple of months and the change is pleasant.

My new iPhone 4 has the ability to take movie clips in pretty nice definition. So, for grins and giggles, I’ve been playing around with that capability. Uploading these movie clips to YouTube is a snap. So, I’ve taken a couple of shorter movies and uploaded them. Here’s the links:

First: the birds in the backyard before the snow came.

Second: the birds in the backyard after the snow came.

Finally: the drive up the hill and home in the snow. WARNING: I’m driving with one hand and holding the camera with the other … those prone to motion sickness may get more of a ride than they planned….

Meanwhile, I’ve taken the Salt Lake Express bus up to my work in Idaho Falls. I was the only passenger last Thursday. It was an easy, pleasant ride with a very competent driver. I was quite pleased with the process so I’ll do it again tomorrow. It’s cheaper than driving and a whole lot more relaxing.