Skiing the slopes

We didn't have firm plans to go skiing this break, which was a first for us. But Dave really wanted to watch the snow to see if it was going to be worth it. As we headed into Christmas, it looked like there would be some decent snow, and fresh snow at that, so Dave started booking our trip. We stayed in a condo next to the lodge, and it was perfect. We were a little worried in the beginning because everyone said "this condo is not our favorite." So it wasn't updated, but it was warm and clean. It worked perfectly for us! We got there in the afternoon and got the kiddos fitted for their skis, helmets and boots and also got our lift tickets. Everyone was super friendly. That night, we had dinner at the lodge. Talk about yummy! I was very impressed, as it wasn't typical lodge food. They also had some game tables the kids got to play at. The best thing, it wasn't crowded. We also played in the snow the first afternoon! 

How many times can we hit dad with a snowball before he throws back?

Ready or not....here Jackson throws!

Addison had fun making it snow on herself!

And you have to taste the snow...she did make sure it was completely white!

I love the snow when I'm warm!

The second day we were there, it was ski school for everyone. Jackson and Addison ended up being in the same class, there were just three of them. I had a private lesson and skied until lunch time. It was COLD! The wind was blowing which made it even colder. I am definitely a blue sky skier. When we came in for lunch, I actually started to cry my fingers hurt so bad. Jackson and Addison had a good time in ski school also. They are definitely better than me. But we did all decide that we all needed more clothes on the following day.

All ready to go!

In his element!

Smiles.

Jackson getting off the ski lift.

Addie getting off the lift!

Snuggles together to warm up.

That night we went to the lodge and had the most delicious ice cream sundaes for dessert. They were in a dark chocolate bowl with vanilla bean ice cream, a touch of whipped cream and the topping of your choice. Delicious! The best part of the day was being able to sit with Dave and enjoy a glass of wine while the kids played games. We all played a family game later, and the girls one! 

Our third day of skiing had everyone adding layers to their clothes. We also changed the kids gloves to the kind that you can put the hand warmers in them. We hit the slopes before ski school and all skied together as a family first. After a few runs, I was done. It was -6 out and windy...not my kind of weather. I bailed on my ski lesson, but the kids braved ski school. They skied for half a day with school, and then Dave skied with them for the afternoon. They had a blast! It was awesome to watch Dave and the kids skiing together, knowing this is something Dave LOVES and Jackson and Addison do too. 

I still had smiles.

Dave and the kids warming up before lunch.

All set to go!

Family picture after skiing.

We spent New Years Eve hanging out, watching movies and playing Yahtzee. Everyone had a good time and we hit the sack before 9pm East Coast time. It snowed that night, and we had a safe trip down the mountain going about 10 miles an hour. Definitely a trip I'd take again!!! Looking forward to next year, I just have to figure out how to keep my hands warm.

Christmas with Grandma and Grandpa H

After Christmas, we got an overnight visit from my parents! They were driving through to my sister's house, and stopped by here first. We were excited to see them. Addison was thrilled because Grandma H was able to get her started on her Santa sewing machine. They stitched and stitched away, learning all the little quirks of the machine and basic sewing. Jackson had a great time putting legos together and involving Grandpa H in that endeavor. He also got Grandpa H playing Kinect sports for the first time. That was funny!!!

We always love when they come for a visit, and can't wait for the next one!

Christmas Day

We got to Aunt Diana's in time for lunch, and what a spread. We enjoyed meats and cheeses, and lots of other yummy treats. It was the perfect start to our afternoon. Everyone was there, and we got to meet the "invisible" Katie, who is Wesley's fiancé. I say invisible because it's the first time we've been able to connect and meet her. Nick and Wes were awesome at including Jackson and Addison. Jackson put together legos and then got out his microscope and our scientist, Nick, helped him set it up. Addison bounced from room to room, dressing and redressing Isabelle. Katie and Wesley also stole a minute with her and asked her to be their flower girl. She is over the moon with this!!! 

Wesley tuning his guitar for Addison.

This was the only "smile" I was given.

Addie making music...

Science in action.

Jackson and Nick

Addison and her new BFF Katie

We had a delicious dinner of prime rib. And yes, even out of the microwave it tasted delicious (I don't like mine prime). We ended the night with a family picture. Our plan was to stay the night, but on our way to the hotel, Dave made the statement that he would just as soon drive home. We looked at each other, and we did! It was nice to sleep in our own bed, and even nicer still to wake up at home. 

Christmas Morning

Our Christmas morning started bright and early! I guess the early bird catches the worm, or in this case, gets the stocking. It was nice having each kid wake up at different times...kind of broke that part up. We put the Christmas bread in and made the coffee while stockings were opened. We also talked about the reason for Christmas. I was lucky to wait to get my coffee because Santa had tracked down a coffee mug that I broke awhile ago that was my favorite! Santa also brought Jackson some Imaginext and Addison a sewing machine. Needless to say, we had some excitement!

Grandma B made us Christmas bread, which was awesome because I was completely out of time to do it. She even made one that was gluten free. We enjoyed breakfast and tried to stretch it out a little because it was funny. The kids brought in all the presents and it was gift opening around. I must say that they did a great job of waiting patiently while everyone got a turn for their gifts. Highlights were Broncos gear, Isabelle the American Girl (who is the doll version of Addison...dancing and crafting), legos and Imaginext.

Once presents were opened, we showered and hit the road to spend the rest of Christmas with Dave's sister Diana and her family and Grandma and Grandpa B.