After trying out Sebastian’s old snowboard in the backyard two weeks ago, Sophia took a free snowboarding lesson at Chester Bowl Ski Hill yesterday. It was a quick hour that she wished could have gone on longer. She was given the basics and really enjoyed trying her hand at a new winter sport. We stayed for more than two hours after the lesson was over so that she could try out some of the techniques her teacher showed her.
Boarder GirlSnow ChampionThe Girl & Her BoardEnjoying The Sunshine
We were back at Chester Bowl again today for the ski races. Sophia finished in the upper third of her age category of close to 20 girls. After the races concluded and the trophies were handed out, she exchanged her skis for a snowboard and was back at again for another hour. I have a feeling she will sleep well tonight.
There were no gold medals, no world records and no opening or closing ceremonies, but we did have our own Winter Olympics this past weekend in our backyard and front yard and even from our rooftop. When mother nature gives you snow, what do you do? Our latest storm gave us over 15″ of snow. We had plans to take a mini ski vacation to Giants Ridge while the kids were on winter break last week, but with the “blizzard” predictions, we changed our plans and stayed in Duluth to ski at Spirit Mountain. The white out conditions caused Spirit Mountain to close at 4pm which was probably a good thing. We got home before the worst of the storm hit. By the next morning, drifting snow buried our driveway, sidewalk and everything else. As a family, we ventured outside and began digging out. After most of the work was done, the kids decided to have a little fun. Out came the snowboards and sleds and our mini Olympics was underway.
Girls Division | Driveway Snowboarding
Boys Division| Driveway Snowboarding
Senior Division | Driveway Snowboarding
After a quick photo next to the tunnel that leads to our front steps and door, we moved to the backyard snowboarding course.
Girls Division | Backyard Snowboarding
Boys Division | Backwards Skeleton
Girls Division | Swing Set Jump
Boys Division | Swing Set Jump
Preparing for the jump.
The big jump.
Pairs Roof Jumping
Relaxing before the jump.
After the jump and digging out.
Boys Division | Luge
Senior Division | Roof Shoveling
The snowman that was created back in December has not melted, but is nearly buried by snow. Here he is during the early December snowstorm when Mike and Sophia made him.
Mr. Snowman With His Creators
Here he is now…or what is left of him. Look for the tip of his red hat.
Buried
One final collage of the snow cover.
Subzero temperatures are in the forecast, but no snow…for now.
Mike and Sophia went to a Father-Daughter event at the end of January. They had a double date with friends of ours and had a wonderful evening of dancing, laughter and fun. Here they are right before they left for their big date.
Night OutSophia & Her Friend Enjoying Kiddie Cocktails
The weather continues to be below average making it less than desirable for outdoor activities.
Arctic Air
We hosted the annual Super Bowl Party at our house. We got a little creative with an old tablecloth to add to the football theme.
Football Field By Mike & Sophia
Sophia made sure we didn’t forget what day it was by marking it on our daily board.
Super Bowl Sunday
Sophia made Seahawks and Broncos Rainbow Loom bracelets and sold them for $0.50 each. I forgot to take of photo of them, but trust me, they were super cute and sold fast! Daphne was exhausted the next day.
All Tuckered Out
Sebastian had his first of two band concerts of the school year. The concert included performances by the 6th, 7th & 8th grades. They all did a great job.
7th Grade Band – iPhone Photo
Sophia had her own musical performance this week. She played two pieces of music at a piano festival in front of judges. The festival was at a nearby college. I wasn’t able to be in the room with her when she played, but she said it went very well. She will find out the results later this week.
Festival At The College of St. Scholastica – iPhone Photos
We enjoyed my work of art…this giant cookie after dinner on Saturday. I think I finally have it perfected. Homemade cookie dough (my secret recipe) baked in a 9 inch springform pan. Crispy, chewy and delicious!
Cookie Perfection
I tried to find inspiration outdoors for a few photos, but came up somewhat empty-handed.
The week ahead looks busy with school conferences, a piano lesson, gymnastics, basketball practices and a tournament. We may try to fit in some skiing on Sunday if the weather permits. We are enjoying the longer days and are looking forward to warmer temperatures in the long, long range forecast.
M. Sullivan Photography 