Decision time

Talked to the Bila residents about the next leg of the trip. They are advising us that the road conditions ahead very tough. They are surprised we are attempting the Nordics leg with the Panda. (the 13 1/2 hours to cover 376 km comes to mind). Gigi is under the weather with a bad cold, and my back is starting to feel tight (need doctor Ante). Physically and mentally the toll of the trip is starting to weigh in. Weather forecast is also predicting heavy snow in the Baltics. We had a long talk this morning and the general consensus is that we would be pushing too much, trying to make it back in time for my flight to the US. I promised my wife (Saint Katie) and my daughter (IsabUella) that we would not take unnecessary risks. In Everest terms we have reached the 2:00 pm turn-around time. Didnt quite accomplish the whole 30 countries, but 23 countries and 24 resorts in 13 days is still a spectacular feat. The places we have visited and the people that we have met have made an incredible trip that will always have a special place in our minds. At the end, the Russian winter has proved to be too tough, again. (history repeats itself). Looking to start the long exodus down South today. Hopefully we can still squeeze some good skiing. Ciaooo