Most of Oregon is tasting winter this morning, with fluffy snow falling across the state. For skiers and other snow-players, the lovely white flakes are a welcome site. There are lots of good reasons for excitement at the first real signs of winter here in La Grande and the surrounding area: skiing, wildlife watching and Christmas shopping!

Ski Anthony Lakes opened today with 12" of new snow overnight, making a base of base 22" and 28" at the top of the mountain. The scenic ski resort is located high in the Elkhorn Ridge of the Blue Mountains, where the highest base elevation of any Oregon ski resort translates to excellent snow quality and a typically long season. Go to www.anthonylakes.com to keep track of the latest conditions and events. There is always something fun happening on the mountain and the sparkling, jagged granite peaks make the scenery exceptional year-round. See photo in album.

Down at the base of the mountains, the snow has brought Rocky Mountain elk out of the high country and into the meadows along Anthony Creek, 8 miles west of North Powder. Why there? After nearly twenty years of the Elkhorn Wildlife Area's elk feeding program, they know they will find some delicious alfalfa hay set out just for their hungry tummies. They also know their friends will be there to greet them. Friends? Yes, T & T Horsemanship is launching their elk viewing excursions for the season today. And it's a pretty exciting day for all involved. There is a new team of black Percheron draft horses pulling the wagon. T & T bought the team this fall when it became evident that the team and driver they had used the past four years couldn't fit the excursions into their schedule. So, Waylan and Jed are hitched to the wagon, providing people with the extraordinary opportunity to see the magnificent elk up close (and I mean very close!) while hearing all about the animals' history in our area and the reason for Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife feeding them here every winter. This is an experience you won't want to miss. About 1500 people enjoy the excursions from mid-December through late February, every year. The cost per person is just $7 for adults and $5 for youth. The memories are priceless. See photos in album and go to www.tnthorsemanship.com

Downtown La Grande is festive and filled with holiday spirit as all of the stores welcome shoppers during Santa's Play Day, December 13. There are games for the kids, an outdoor warming station, and Santa will be around throughout the afternoon. Downtown La Grande has an amazing selection of gift items in the many specialty shops, furniture, music and electronic stores and J.C. Penney. Come join in the festivities and Make It A La Grande Weekend!