Mike was leaving to pick up Sophia from her class tonight and came back inside to persuade me to come out and look at the moon. It was just beginning to come up over the horizon through the trees. Last night was actually the full moon, but tonight’s moon didn’t disappoint. Because we are in a residential area with lots of trees and houses, I grabbed my camera and hopped in the car with Mike hoping I could get a better shot from the parking lot at the church where Sophia’s class was. While Mike went in to collect Sophia, I took a few images resting the camera on the fence surrounding the parking lot. I didn’t bother to bring a tripod since we were rushing to get there on time, so the fence was the best I could do. I also realized that I really need a longer zoom lens. I’ve been saying that for a while, but maybe this is the year. Even with the lack of equipment, I’m glad I took a few minutes out of our busy evening to capture this image.
We made a quick trip out to Mont du Lac to ski today. We got some fresh air, exercise and lots of sunshine. It was a perfect February day for skiing. Although we haven’t had much snow this year, the hill was in pretty good condition from the snow machines. We packed a cooler with snacks and beverages and took a break outside on the deck about halfway through the afternoon. Sebastian and Sophia tried skiing moguls for the first time and did very well. Knowing my own limits, I stayed away from the moguls and black diamonds and stuck to easier skiing. Mike gave Sophia pointers on skiing techniques that will help her when we all go to Vail…or maybe just Spirit Mountain. We could not have asked for a better day – no injuries, no complaining, no cold fingers or toes and lots and lots of fun!
Top Of The WorldSunny DayBottom Of The HillReady For Some SkiingLook At Me!
Mike is the black spot in the background behind Sophia.
Moguls
You have to look hard, but Sebastian is the tiny spot on the left of the chairlift doing the moguls.
We probably won’t get a chance to get out to Mont du Lac again this year before the snow is gone, but look for us back again next year!
Friday nights are traditionally pizza nights at our house. This means I am off the hook from cooking. Mike picks up Papa Murphy’s pizzas and we enjoy a movie or game night with the kids. After a long work (or school) week, it’s something that we all look forward to.
Pizza Night
Tonight’s Game of Choice – Mario Brothers
Sophia recently learned how to play Mario Brothers. Now that we have a third remote for the Wii, the kids along with Mike are able to sharpen their Wii skills to conquer Mario world. I’ve never actually played the game myself. I’m a little too intimidated since they have nearly mastered the game.
Mario Brothers
Before pizza and game night, we took Daphne for a walk around the neighborhood. Even though it’s only early February, the melting snow and warm temperatures make it feel like spring. Daphne was busy smelling all the new scents that have appeared. She seems to have the energy of a puppy even though she’s seven years old. Or maybe she has spring fever like the rest of us.
Daphne - How About We Go For A Walk?When The Sun Goes Down
We aren’t planning a winter/spring vacation this year, but will instead spend an overnight at a local hotel so that the kids can enjoy the pool, hot tub and an awesome continental breakfast the next morning complete with Belgian waffles. We won a gift certificate during a silent auction fundraiser last fall and thought it might be a good time to use it. The hotel we will be staying at also has outdoor fire pits for roasting marshmallows and making s’mores. It’s only a mini “staycation”, but we are all looking forward to it.
We will also spend a night in Minneapolis to check out the Twin Cities Auto Show. After over 13 blissful years with our SUV, this is the year that we are going to have to say goodbye. With a leaky sunroof and leaking oil, along with small spots of rust starting to appear, we plan to find something more fuel-efficient (and cool). With two growing kids, a dog, a small boat to tow and winter driving in Duluth, a new four-wheel drive vehicle is an investment we really need to make later this year.
Preparations for our Super Bowl party are underway. I was supposed to spend the day cleaning, grocery shopping and prepping for the big day. The party is pretty low-key with our fellow fantasy football players and friends, along with their kids. Everyone brings something to share. Mike suggested earlier in the week that we go skiing on the weekend and I politely reminded him that we will be hosting the party at our house for the first time. He and the kids made promises to help with everything – cleaning, shopping and cooking – if I would agree to go skiing. I couldn’t turn down a warm, sunny day and ended up playing hooky from my chores to hit the slopes. I have no regrets, but am left with a big to-do list for tomorrow. I hope everyone in our house gets a good night’s rest tonight, because tomorrow is a work day!
M. Sullivan Photography 