Big Sky, Montana

For my days off this week, Tianna came to visit! I showed her around Billings and then we made our way to Big Sky. 

The 3-hour drive was scenic.

The hotel, Rainbow Ranch, was pretty nice. Our one room was actually two rooms! We a great continental breakfast the next morning. 

Our view from the porch

After breakfast, we went on a hike.

There weren't many people on the trail, but we asked someone to take our picture when the opportunity presented itself.

Lots of snow! 

Mid-hike selfie

After the 2-mile hike, we headed to the base of Big Sky Ski Resort. It was just Tianna and I, our guides, and photographers for our zip lining experience, which was awesome! Tianna decided she wanted to buy the pictures afterwards. A few:

Very fun time with beautiful views.

Fishtail, Montana

Last month, my friend Tracy from work did a story on a general store in Fishtail, MT. It's the oldest general store in Montana, having opened in 1900––watch her story here.

In the process of pulling the story together, she got close to the owner, Katy. Tracy promised Katy she'd come back and get her Christmas tree there...which is the backstory of why we went to Fishtail!

 Katy took our orders at the deli/bakery tucked in the back of the general store.

A couple Tracy and I talked to over lunch. They live in the town next door, but come to the general store for gas. They've been living in the area for 50+ years, and visiting the general store for just as long. Everybody who walked into the store was a regular and greeted with a hug from Katy. Katy invited Tracy and I to Christmas dinner at her home since we don't have family here (unfortunately we'll both be working, but the kindness and friendliness of Montanans never ceases to amaze me!).

Tracy officially adopted Comet, then we took a scenic drive through the mountains to search for the perfect location for a photoshoot.

  Christmas card pictures

 We came back to Billings and bought a tree stand, tree decorations, egg nog, and watched Elf while decorating it at her apartment. The perfect Dec. 1. I'm officially in the holiday spirit!