Skiing Weekend

Two weeks ago, we had winter break at Ecole Vieux Pin. The previous post done on this subject would have been better named Christmas break, but oh well. We took a lovely two-day skiing trip to Stevens Pass the first day and Mission Ridge the second, after spending the night in Wenatchee.

Zaz was very excited to go skiing as we got ready, but slightly less so when it actually happened.

Cheerful smiles.

Zaz also spent considerable time studying the map. Even though it was upside down...

We had fairly good weather at Stevens, although it rained a bit at the end. Such beautiful sunshine!

Zaz skied very well

More studying of the map over lunch.

Mission was really beautiful too, especially after coming out of dry Wenatchee. Talking to friends later, we realized that we were truly blessed with a clear day. We could see Mt. Rainer and Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood was hiding a little behind some clouds.

The view was stunning. Lou got a bit annoyed at me for taking so many pictures. (i.e. taking my camera out a LOT!)

We also got to see the wing from the bomber that crashed there during World War II and learn it's history.

After lunch Zaz got to go play, and us other five enjoyed skiing together.

Plus a nice ski-patrol man took our picture together.

The way the wind has pushed the snow on the trees, buildings, and these posts at the top of the lift was really cool - and beautiful.

We are very thankful for a fun, successful trip, clear, blue skies, and enjoying God's creation. This was also only the second time we've able to go skiing this year, although Papa and Zaz are off to Snoqualmie tomorrow morning for a ski adventure in honor of Zaz's 4th birthday.

Marina

Christmas Tradition

So it's not Christmas anymore, but it's never too late to share!

In 2006 we started a tradition of making Christmas dishes. Mommy wanted Christmas dishes but she didn't want to spend lots of money. So we've started making our own! We missed 2007 but we've done it for three years - this year we took pictures.

My 2006 Angel.

And My 2008 Snowflakes. I seem to have a blue theme.

Looloo has built up the Nativity scene. In 2006 she started with the stable, Joseph, Mary, the Shepherd, and the baby Jesus.

In 2008 she continued it with the three magi.

Mr. Pete has the Christmas tree...

With the presents under it.

The Zaz wasn't even one in 2006, so he had his first mistletoes...

And reindeer in 2008.

On the back of each plate, we put our hand print, name, and age. Last year, the Zaz was allowed to decorate the back of his plate as much as he wanted, because his hand was already on the front.

With eight plates, we started on mugs this year. Snowflakes, the Nativity, Angels, and a winter wonderland.

When asked what he wanted on the inside of his cup, the Zaz said, "A black snake." Mommy agreed and there you have it.

In case you can't read it, which is very possible, as the lighting was bad, it says, "He shall crush the serpent's head!"

We now have a joke in our house, "There's a dead snake in my cup!"

Mr. Pete opted for a more cheerful inside decoration.

Oatmeal Cookies

Winterbreak