Ringing in the New Year

After Christmas, we packed up the car and made the long trek to Santa Fe to see my parents, better known as GiGi and Grandad. I wasn't so sure about such a long trip with two kids, but we were longing for some snow and to spend some time with my folks. I felt sure Aubrey would do fine (she did great last year), and she did, but Henry was another story. Having to stop and nurse and change and feed and stop and change and nurse and on and on sure made the trip even longer. 14 hours of fun. Actually, it wasn't too bad on the way there, but the ride home was painful. Henry wanted out of the seat more than anything and didn't nap well, and Aubrey didn't want to hear his screaming. Hopefully it won't be too long until we get back on track.

One thing is for sure, we had a great time while we were there, so it was worth two long days in the car. The weather was simply perfect. The sun was out, the air was cool (ok, cold) and the snow was everywhere. Aubrey loved playing in the snow around the house and even made two trips up the mountain for some sledding.

My mom was nice enough to watch the kids so I could go cross country skiing one day with my dad and Brian. Wow, what a challenge that was! I have been downhill skiing since I was a wee one, but I had never tired cross country. I was on the ground far more than I would like to admit. I felt sure I wouldn't be able to move the next day. It didn't help that we were up at 10,000 plus ft and not on flat or open terrain (thanks for the challenge dad)! It warmed up to 40 something and was absolutely beautiful. Thankfully, I could move the next day. I look forward to trying it again next year.

On New Year's Eve/afternoon , my dad took Aubrey to a party at the bookstore and my mom watched Henry. Brian and I took advantange of some free time and went snow shoeing, another first for me. Well, I thought cross country was a good work out. We were gasping for air after about 30 mins. We had a great time though and managed to last about 2 hours, and I managed to stay upright the whole time, which is always preferred. We had a nice dinner that night at home with my parents and didn't feel one bit ashamed of going to bed before midnight. Ok, so we didn't even last until 10pm.

We had a great visit and can't wait to go back, although I think we will wait to make the drive again until Henry kicks the mommy's milk habit. 

Thanks for living in such a great vacation spot mom and dad!

Roasting marshmallows with Grandad

I think she thought we would take it away from her at any second. She shoved the whole thing in at once.

Spending quality time with GiGi. Check out the leg warmers on Henry.  What will they think of next?

Henry's first look at the snow just outside the house.  I was testing out the skis before the big adventure. I was down on the ground and had to be rescued within minutes.  It took me forever to figure out how to get up.  It sure helps when you have a mountain slope to lean on.  Maybe I should stick to downhill.

Tummy time on the toasty floors.

Brian was very proud of his snow tunnel.  Aubrey was very proud of destroying it.

Taking a break on the Norski Trail.  Isn't it beautiful?  Not to be outdone by nature's beauty, Brian is rocking some cool shades courtesy of my dad.  "But they were all the rage..." he says.  Well, maybe in 1982 dad.  :)

Dad, Scout, Brian and me.

Sledding fun.

Notice the duct taped gloves.  A true Baumhover.