We rented a Ford Kuga w/ 4WD and studded tires to drive the ring road from Reykjavic to Akureyri. Most was smooth (not all), and most was clear of snow and ice (not all). Overall a good road, but parts were very remote and the weather very changeable, often with high winds. We were happy to have the 4WD and studded tires.

More than anything else, it was beautiful. Snow-covered rocky outcroppings and passes, in some places absolutely no other cars or signs of habitation visible, wild views everywhere. I had a palpable sense that this was not Maryland anymore. Luckily, we had pretty continuous cell service and downloaded maps.

Great meal where Rosana treated everyone for Chinese New Year.

Plan was to have a sled and two dogs per person and race. Turns out the snow was too icy, so it turned into an indoor dog extravaganza with Gunni, followed by harrowing cliff roads, tunnels, sheep testicles, and whale blubber.

Headed over 83/84 mountain pass (instead of the tunnel) to the Lake Myvatn Area. Stopped at the Godafoss waterfall, Dimmuborgir (volcanic rock), Namaskard (bubbling clay field), the Nature Baths, and finally Vogafjós, a cowshed restaurant.

Very good lamb and pulled-pork "hot dogs" (no dog in the bun), and Hallgrímskirkja Lutheran Cathedral.