January 13, 2013

Outside Temp: 16 F (High of 21, low of 8... not too bad.. no negatives.)

What I cooked today:
Split Pea Soup: We had a ham bone from dinner last night, and I just couldn't let it go to waste.  I threw all the stuff into the crock pot before we left to go skiing, so it was ready when we got home.  Next time, I have GOT to remember to wrap the bone in cheesecloth, because those little bits of fat are kind of ucky in the soup. 

Update:
Ski Day!

Even with the snow, we decided to head up to the ski slopes.  We got a late start, and forgot Connor's boots under the heated blanket.  But, we were able to rent boots and they still got about 2-3 hours on the slopes. 

We brought Ryan this time, but left Katie at home with Grandma (she's still getting over her bug).  Allen and Connor did great on the slopes and Connor has really advanced in his skiing.  He and Allen took off and skied by themselves for a little bit, as Patrick (and then Grandpa) tried to ski with Ryan.  He has forgotten a lot of what he learned last year, but he still got up on the skis and did fine.  He needs to learn to follow directions a little better, but perhaps that will happen next time.

Ryan and Patrick on the ski slopes!

I got to stay in the lodge and eat chili and drink hot chocolate, so I had no complaints!  It was a little chilly outside, with the snow and the wind, and I really need to get better snow clothes.  I was pretty sure that I would have strengthened my knee a little better by this season, but here we are in January, and my knee is still pretty weak.  I may just decide to try it out, but I'm really not looking forward to popping the kneecap, while I'm up on the mountain.  Oh well, you never know until you try, right?

January 6, 2013

Outside Temp: 35 F (strange weather... it was as high as 61 and as low as 16 today... clear and beautiful)

What I cooked today:
Papa Murphy's Pizza: I had Patrick pick up pizza, because I felt so crummy that I really didn't want to cook.  I have some beef defrosted, so I HAVE to make it tomorrow.

Update:
RYAN IS HOME!!  His doctors said that he could go home today.  The only thing stopping us was getting the antibiotics from the pharmacy.  But, since they are 'once a day', they just gave us tonight's dose a little early, and sent us home.  We are going into town tomorrow to pick up the rest.

He looks great!  Patrick said he really misses his bed.  The bed at the hospital is better than nothing, but it's very narrow and he said the blankets weren't thick enough.  He's looking forward to sleeping with his own pillow and blankets tonight!

I spent most of the day in bed, again.  This bug has really knocked me down.  Patrick brought home some Sudafed, so that really helped.  I'm praying that I wake up tomorrow feeling fine, and ready to start the day.  Mostly, because the laundry is piling up and the house looks like a hurricane ran through it.  I hate it when I'm sick.

Allen and Grandpa went skiing this afternoon.  Allen is really enjoying it, and I think we are planning on going back up the mountain on Friday, with all the kids.  I can't wait to get Ryan back up on skis!

January 1, 2013

Outside Temp: 21 F (we got some snow today, which was just beautiful!)

What I cooked today:
Pizza and Macs & Cheese: I wasn't feeling up to making a full meal, so I pulled a frozen pizza out of the freezer.  However, 1 little pizza is not enough to feed my family, so I paired it with some macs & cheese.  Not exactly a stellar meal, but it worked.

Update:
Hello Again!

I took a week (or so) off from writing my blog.  To be totally honest, I was bored with it.  I can't imagine why anyone would be interested in reading it, and after the holiday, life around here was pretty ho-hum. 

However, after getting a few little nudges, I figure that perhaps there is a reason to keep writing.  If nothing else, it keeps me finding something each day that is worthy of writing about.  Okay, not every day, but most days.

In the last week, the kids didn't have school, which means that we let them stay up as late as they want (yes, I know, we're bad parents).  They did make it up to the ski slopes last Friday, but Ryan wasn't feeling all the good, so I stayed home with him, (which means my camera stayed home as well).  The next time they go up, I'll make sure to get some pictures.

The other days we just sat around, and did almost nothing.  When the kids stay up until 2am, they don't get moving until about noon (I think Allen set the record at getting up at 3pm...). With the days being so short, that means they only see a few hours of daylight.  In a way, I'm actually looking forward to them heading back to school, just to get them back into a schedule and routine.

I've been fighting this bug for the last few days.  It came on Sunday night, and yesterday and today I spent all day tossing and turning in bed.  Around 3am last night, I woke up shivering and chattering.  I think the chattering teeth gave me a headache, but I was feeling terrible.  I threw myself into a scalding hot shower and stayed there until my body stopped shaking.  Patrick (who obviously was still awake) kept checking on me, to make sure I didn't drown.  Today, I just stayed in bed most of the day.  I managed to pull myself out of bed to make dinner, but I think that's the end of my ambition. 

School starts back up again tomorrow, which means that we get to start the 'Game Design' class.  I'm a little nervous, since I have no idea how this class will work out.  My illness just adds another layer to my stress.  Worst case, I can have Patrick go in and babysit my class, but I really don't want to miss the first day.  The kids have a 3 day week this week, and then we start our 4 day weeks (Fridays are off until late March).  They are so spoiled! 

December 13, 2012

Outside Temp: 31 F (clear most of the day, stayed between 25-35 all day... )

What I cooked today:
Nothing... I know, I'm a slacker.

Update:
Busy day!

We kept Ryan home from school again, because of the rash on his chest.  It looks, acts and smells like a yeast infection on the skin, so we are treating it with anti-fungal meds, and (hopefully) all will be good in another day or two.  We'll keep treating it for the next 2 weeks, but that just means using a topical anti-fungal whenever we change the dressing.  No IV meds, no oral meds, no problems!

I pulled the kids out of school at 3pm, so we could race over to Great Falls for Ryan Dr appt.  (we were even able to sneak in the boys allergy shots while we were there!).  I absolutely LOVE Ryan's doctor!  He had already gotten the results of the Seattle trip, with the changes to his TPN (we are decreasing both the volume and the calories, since he is doing so well! Woo hoo!) and his lab results.  All numbers look good.  He looked over his chest rash and said we were doing perfect, and he would order us some more meds.  He also offered to call the school tomorrow to get the paperwork taken care of and faxed back, etc., so that Ryan can start staying for lunch. 

After the Dr. Appt, we went over to Skiers Edge, to get the kids ski rentals for the season.  They all have season passes, but we learned quickly that the rental rates add up over time.  The 'pro shop' has a deal where kids can get rentals for the entire season (skis, boots and poles) for $120.  Not too bad when you figure that the rental rate is about $25 a day!  Allen already has his own boots and skis, but Katie, Connor and Ryan are now all set.  We have their poles now, and the skis and boots will be ready in time for skiing next Saturday, right after the last day of school!  Woo hoo!

We then ended up at Chili's and had a great dinner with the entire family.  When the check came, it was for way too low, so I checked the bill, and she had somehow transposed numbers, ending up with about $40 off.  I (of course) called it to her attention, and she was extremely grateful.  I don't know if they would have taken the difference out of her pay for the night, but I'm sure that there would have been some repercussions.  I (being me) turned it into a teachable moment for the kids.  Yes, I could have walked away without paying my entire bill, but that would be stealing (and lying), and I just don't do that.  I would feel way too guilty anyway!

March 28, 2012

Outside Temp: 40 F (pretty this morning... then thunderheads... a little rain... now clear... I love our changing weather!)

What I cooked today:
Walnut Chicken: We got home late from church, and I had to rush dinner.  I got it on the table in 22 minutes, which isn't bad.  But it still meant that we ate at about 9:05.  And on a school night, too! 

Update:
Ski Day!!  Today was the second ski day for the school, so the kids headed up the mountain with Grandpa for skiing.  They said the conditions were better than Sunday, except that there was a lot of ice.  Allen tagged along with the other kids from school, and Katie and Connor took off on their own.  I stayed home with Patrick and Ryan, since Patrick had to work and Ryan was a little cranky.  No biggie, I spent an hour on the phone with medical billing, so it was productive!

As soon as the got home, I rushed Allen over to Stanford for Track practice.  Although he told his coach that he probably wouldn't be home from skiing in time for practice, he asked to go.  He said he really needed the practice (which I agree with, but I was surprised that he would be that mature!).  His coach ended up letting him out early (which worked since we had other places to be), but I made him run a few more sets.  Up and back on the football field, which works out well since he thinks he's going to do the 100 meter dash.  Of course, the wind was a little high, so there was about a 5-10 second difference depending on if the wind was in front of him, or behind him.  I see a lesson on physics in our future.

After practice, we raced back to Belt for mass, and then our Confirmation class.  We had a great class tonight (as opposed to last week, when the kids were spastic).  We've set up the class so that we don't have too much to cover each week.  That allows us plenty of time for discussions, even those that go way off topic. 

Tomorrow is Parent-Teacher conferences, so I'm looking forward to that.  At least, I hope I am looking forward to it...

March 25, 2012

Outside Temp: 35 F (foggy in the morning, clear as a bell in the afternoon!)

What I cooked today:
Sweet and Sour Chicken: Exhausted from our ski day (not sure exactly why, since I didn't ski), I decided to make something easy.  I know, it doesn't sound easy, but it totally is!  I put the rice in the microwave for 22 minutes (I need to add an extra 2 minutes, I think because of the altitude).  Cut up the chicken, toss in a Ziploc with green onions, ginger, oil and cornstarch.  Then put in the frying pan for about 10 minutes.  While that's cooking, cut up some onions, celery, carrots and peppers (pineapple is already cut up, since it's in a can).  Saute the veggies while the chicken browns.  Mix up the sauce with some red wine vinegar, ketchup (I was stunned, but really, ketchup), sugar and honey.  Throw the veggies in the pan with the chicken (once it's done) and cover with the sauce.  Simmer for an extra 4-5 minutes.  Dinner was on the table in less than 30 minutes!  Woo Hoo!

Update:
Skiing today!  There is only about 2 weeks left in the ski season, so we just HAD to go up today.  Unfortunately, it was about 70 F up at the top of the mountain. 

While I wasn't skiing, the others told me that the conditions were bad.  Really, really bad.  It was slushy and ucky most of the day.

That being said, Ryan did go up with Grandpa and Patrick for 2-3 runs.  Once they were done, Grandpa took him on the beginners area and he practiced his turns.  No really, he actually went around the cones, correctly!  I was stunned.  I'd been trying to get him to do that all season!  Woo Hoo!

Katie, Allen and Connor went up on the slopes together, and they did great.  Allen stayed with them on the intermediate slopes, and he said they all skied really well. 

After skiing, Patrick and I had to run into Belt, and we started counting hawks.  Yes, hawks, like the birds.  By the time we got home, we were over 20.  I'm not sure if it's the warmer weather, or the fog lifting, but apparently, the hawks are out in full force today!  Of course, I forgot my camera, (ugh!) or I would have gotten some great pictures... Maybe tomorrow...

March 7, 2012

Outside Temp: 30 F (it was beautiful today!)

What I cooked today:
Chicken Noodle Soup (without the chicken): Patrick was in the mood for soup, but I didn't have any chicken defrosted, so I just sauteed up some onions, celery and carrots and tossed in my chicken stock.  Then I added some noodles and voila, chicken noodle soup without the chicken.  It was warm and toasty.

Update:
SKI DAY!!  The kids had their ski day with the school today.  Since we had passes and equipment, we decided to go up on our own, rather than have them take the bus to school, and then take the bus up to the mountain with all their equipment.

It was also our first time with Ryan up on the mountain skiing, instead of just doing the magic carpet beginners area!

He did great and we up 3 times with Grandpa and Patrick.  I was so proud of him!  Although he still doesn't turn or do the snow plow, he still had fun and has absolutely NO FEAR!  Of course, I forgot to charge my battery in my new camera, so these were taken with my old camera, which lends a 1970's feel to the movies... Oh wait, I did that on purpose, right? 

We also had our Confirmation class at the church tonight.  Patrick and I were asked to teach the class, since there are only 4 kids, and 3 of them are ours.  We had a really good time and I think the kids enjoyed themselves.  We were able to stay on topic (enough) and still have time for discussion.  We have 7 more classes and I hope that the rest of the classes are as productive and easy as tonight's!

February 19, 2012

Outside Temp: 27 F (it was absolutely clear tonight... You could see thousands of stars!)

What I cooked today:
Nothing: The kids went skiing and then we had dinner with the Grandparents... Woo hoo!  No dishes!

Update:
I was still a little under the weather, so I decided to stay home with Ryan while the rest of the family went up skiing.  I never realized how much the other kids help to entertain Ryan!  With just the two of us, he was quite demanding of my time... Mom, come play with me... Mom, let's play zombies... Mom, come and get me!... Ugh, I'm exhausted!

Katie and Connor both went down intermediate (Blue) runs up at the ski slopes.  They have really advanced this year!  In fact, I think since I wasn't at the lodge to hang out with, they spent about 6 hours skiing, with very few breaks!  I'm so proud of them!

We had dinner with the Grandparents tonight.  One of our friends gave Grandma some Elk steaks.  Since we'd never tried elk, it was a great way for us all to try it together.  It was great!  Really, really lean, so, next time we might try marinating or tenderizing a little bit.  But it was really good. 

We finished the night watching 'Red Riding Hood' with the kids.  I was a little worried that it would be more of a horror movie, which I usually hate. Instead it was more of a murder/mystery with a little romance on the side.  It was much better than I expected.  I only hope that I don't have nightmares of werewolves tonight.

February 12, 2012

Outside Temp: 37 F (argh, warm... snow is gone... )

What I cooked today:
Nothing: Since I don't really count the breakfast sausages I made before we went up skiing, since it was more like a side dish and not a real meal.  Okay, wait, I did have to turn on the oven and it did take some time, and I had to clean a dish, so yea, I made sausages. 

Update:
It's Sunday, which means we HAD to go skiing!  Woo Hoo!


Allen, Grandpa and Patrick took off as soon as we got there and I didn't see them again for hours! (which explains my lack of pictures of my oldest).

Connor and Katie went up by themselves, which allowed them to ski at their own pace.  They both did great and Patrick has a new run he wants them to try next time.  I was a little surprised, when both of them came down the mountain, alone, then just jumped back on the lift... like they'd been doing this for years.  So proud of them!

Ryan is starting to get the hang of the 'snow plow', but he still has a ways to go.  We let him go down the practice slope without the harness a few times today, which resulted in him smashing into either me or Grandma (he broke one of her nails when he ran into her, so I took over the duties at the bottom of the slope, since I have no nails to break).  We had to put him back on the harness, just to keep his speed reasonable.  But, I like to go FAST!  I think next time, we might actually let him go up the mountain with Patrick and Grandpa, just to see how he does.  I think he sees the lift and the mountain as this magical place, and he really, really wants to go up there. 

We couldn't have asked for better weather up on the mountain today.  It was in the mid 20's, sunny and clear with a few pretty clouds, with almost no wind!  I had to take off my jacket, my vest and my scarf.  I even went without gloves for most of the day.  It was simply beautiful!

January 22, 2012

Outside Temp: 19 F (a little windy, but just beautiful!)

What I cooked today:
French Toast: So, I've been making french toast for years, with mostly eggs and a splash of milk.  But I looked at a recipe yesterday that had about 1 1/2 cups of milk to about 3 eggs.  I was stunned.  Who knew that french toast was supposed to be mostly milk, with just a few eggs?  So, I made toast today with about 4 eggs and a lot more milk than I usually use.  I also added in some vanilla.  And while I was too busy to actually eat them, they smelled much more like the french toast smell that I love.  Next time, I might actually have enough time to eat some myself!

Update:
By the way, on a totally unrelated topic, have any of you ever had that day where everything ticks you off?  You wake up irritated, and every voice, every noise, everything around you just sets you off and you can't seem to control it.  You find yourself yelling at the kids or your husband, for things that usually don't bother you? And worse yet, you know you are being unreasonable and you can't stop?  No?  Oh crap.. I mean, me either.

So, it's Sunday, which means it's a ski day!


We all headed up to the mountain late this morning.  Patrick and Allen both said their boots fit much better since we talked to the ski guys in town on Friday.  Ryan wasn't really in the mood to ski, so we only stayed on the slopes for about 1 1/2 - 2 hours, before we headed into the lodge for hot chocolate.  I think he really just wanted the bag of toys I was smart enough to remember to bring.

About an hour later, Katie came wandering into the lodge.  She said she had a headache, and was hungry and wanted some Italian soda.  About 30 minutes later, Connor came in and said he was done for the day.

So the 3 kids and I hung out in the lodge for another hour, playing cards and reading and munching on fries.  Allen showed up and helped me keep Ryan occupied, allowing Patrick and Grandpa about 30 minutes of freedom.  Then we all packed up and headed out to the Lazy Doe for steaks and burgers. 

On the way down the mountain, I stopped to get a Sunday paper (I love my coupons) and we found the item below in a shopping cart.  Patrick insisted that I get a picture with the kids. 

I know there is a story to this deer head in a shopping cart, but I haven't asked yet.  It's almost more fun to let the kids come up with a story on their own!

January 8, 2012

Outside Temp: 43 F (it's warm again, although it was downright chilly on the mountain... they said with wind chill it was about -2)

What I cooked today:
French Toast: I realized last time that oatmeal just isn't a good breakfast before skiing.  So, french toast it was, and it was great!  No ucky tummies this time!

Chili:  And after a cold day on the mountain, chili is just perfect.  Everyone was full afterwards and it was really easy...

Update:
We went skiing again today.  Connor didn't really want to go, but we made him (yes, we're those parents).  We let him quit after a few runs and he got to hang out in the lodge with his hot chocolate and his book.  Katie really wanted to go, but got tired after an hour or two, so she joined her brother in the lodge with hot chocolate and a book.  They both skied really well and we had no problem letting both of them go up by themselves or with Allen.  I think I'd feel a little more comfortable if they had a walkie-talkie, but they aren't falling and are feeling pretty confident.  And I love that I don't feel bad about them only skiing for an hour or two. 

Ryan is getting better.  He still struggles with the snow plow, since I don't think he really has the strength in his legs to put the skis into that position.  He is great with holding them straight, and he really likes to go fast.  We took him off the harness today and I would send him down the hill and Patrick would catch him before he hit the fence.  He will turn if he looks either left or right, but he gets distracted and would rather go straight down, fast.  We're not ready for him to go up the mountain, yet, but he's getting there.  He can get on and off the 'magic carpet' without falling and without help.  We're thinking about having an instructor work with him for a hour or so, maybe get him to work on the snow plow or turning.  But I'm not sure how much he'll pay attention.

I kept meaning to get some good pictures, but I kept forgetting.  I think I'll try to get a movie of Ryan going really fast next week.  And since Katie and Connor bailed out so early, I didn't get any pictures of them.  As for Allen, he was gone most of the day, and I didn't see much of him.  I guess he really likes to ski!  :)

December 30, 2011

Outside Temp: 36 F (it felt a LOT colder on the mountain)

What I cooked today:
Really Bad Oatmeal: I was trying to make something warm and cozy to fill everyone's tummy before we headed up to the mountain for skiing.  I may have put in too much brown sugar.  Or maybe I just don't like oatmeal.  But I could barely eat it.  Poor Connor ate his entire bowl, then complained about his tummy hurting for the next hour.  Bad mom moment.

Update:

Happy Birthday to Patrick's Mom! 

Since I was sick on Wednesday (and Katie was sick on Tuesday) and yesterday was actually Thursday, although I was pretty sure it was Wednesday, that would make today Friday, instead of Thursday, and it somehow became the 30th, instead of the 28th.  Needless to say, I totally forgot about Patrick's mom's birthday, since in my mind it was at least a day or two away, until Grandpa not to subtly told me it was her birthday.  Really bad daughter-in-law moment.  I blamed it on the illness. 

We did make it up to the mountain today for skiing.  Woo Hoo!  After my flop of a breakfast, I was pretty sure that going skiing was a bad idea, but we went anyway.  Fortunately, by the time we got to the mountain, everyone's tummys were pretty much recovered and we were on our way!




The drive up to the mountain was really pretty



We got to the mountain by 11ish and the kids all took off.  Grandpa and Allen headed up to the black slopes while Katie and Connor practiced on the kids area for a little bit, just to make sure they were ready.  I worked with Ryan (and totally forgot to take any pictures of him) for about an hour before he started complaining about his boots.  We got the boots a few weeks ago, but this is the first time Ryan has been up.  His boots are too small and they were hurting his feet.  So, we're heading into Great Falls tomorrow to see if we can swap them out for the bigger size. 

As soon as Patrick got his skis, he took Connor up and Grandpa took Katie... Allen just ran off on his own.  He is 13 now, so I guess that's okay.  I went back into the lodge with Ryan and Grandma and she was kind enough to attempt to keep him occupied.  I (of course) forgot to bring anything that would entertain him (such as maybe a book?) so that's something to remember next time. 

Katie and Connor did great on the regular green runs and they didn't fall at all!  Katie was getting a little hungry, so she headed into the lodge.  Connor kept skiing with Grandpa and Patrick, but he was getting a little frustrated at being told how to ski (by 2 different people, with 2 different ideas).  So, after a few minutes of rest, we sent him back up the mountain, by himself! 

I was beyond not ready for this!  But Connor seemed okay with the idea.  So, I told him he could go, and he scooted over to the lift, and hopped on, all by himself.  It seemed like forever until he was in my sights.  Grandpa ended up running into him about half way down the mountain, and skied with him for the bottom half.  But he did great!  He got off the lift and headed down the hill, and skied like he'd been doing this all his life.  He even fell once and managed to get himself back up and going without any help!  My little boy is not a little boy anymore. 

Patrick was having a hard time with his boots (rentals just do not fit his irregular feet), so he wanted to quit around 2ish.  Since I'd been hanging in the lodge with Ryan and Katie, I made the decision to try something.  I borrowed his boots and skis and polls.  The boots were a little too big (at the toe) and a little too small (at the calf), but they worked.  The skis were a little too long, but they worked.  And I made myself attempt the kids bunny slope. 

Oh my goodness, I haven't been that freaked out in years.  Some of you may know, but I have a really bad knee.  The kneecap pops out of the socket, (similar to a dislocated shoulder I think), which hurts like... well... it really hurts.  When I twist it the wrong way, or I simply bump it, it can pop and I'll be on the floor whimpering like a little girl for about 10 minutes.  After that, I can usually get it popped back into place and then I can hobble for a few hours.  Needless to say, I haven't skied in years.  I did try rollerblading with the kids about 3 years ago, and I fell with Katie and popped my knee.  It took about a month (and doctors visits and physical therapy) before it didn't hurt anymore.  So, skiing has been kind of out of the question.

But I really, really wanted to go skiing!  I used to ski pretty well when I was a kid.  Granted that was about 20 years and a few pounds ago, but I still remember that I loved it.  So, I braced myself and tried to ski. 

I didn't fall.  I didn't even think about falling.  The bunny slope is only about 50 yards and only about 4 cones to practice back and forth.  I managed to go down, get back on the 'magic carpet' and go down again.  After about 30 minutes, I started trying the cones and could get through most of them with no problem.  Then, I practiced going fast, then slow. I practiced controlling my speed (always my vice) and simply staying in control.  All in all, I was up on those skis for about an hour.  I didn't pop my knee.  I could feel the pressure on my knee, simply telling me that I was using a muscle that I have babied for years, but it didn't really hurt. 

Who knows, maybe in a few more weeks, I might get my own skis and head up to the green slopes with my kids! 

The only problem with the trip today was that it was snowing.  Or maybe I should call it raining.  It was hovering around 30 degrees, so as soon as the snow landed, it started to melt.  By the time we all quit, all of our clothes were drenched.  Our gloves were drenched.  Our hats were drenched.  Our scarves were drenched.  Even our socks were drenched.  It wasn't even that cold, but when you're wet, it felt colder than I've felt since we've been here!   It would have actually been better if it was colder, since then the snow wouldn't have melted.  But no complaints.  By the time we got home, I took a hot shower and bundled in my jammies and now, I feel just fine. Perhaps a little tired and a little sore from using muscles I don't usually use, but just fine. 

December 23, 2011

Outside Temp: 40 F (ugh, there is no way we're ending up with a white Christmas this year... )

What I cooked today:
Pancakes: I knew the kids would need their strength today, so I made sure to make a great breakfast for them.  Unfortunately, they ate them all before I had a chance to eat any!  Not cool!  I ended up with Lucky Charms. 

Update:

Skiing!

 Connor and Grandpa 	 Allen, Grandpa and Connor (you can't tell because they are all hidden behind masks and scarves) 
 Allen 	 Katie, reading in the lodge! 

We had one of those days that was planned well, but just didn't seem to follow the plans.  Oh well, plans are made to be changed.

We were going to help decorate the church for Christmas, but by the time we got our act together, they were already done.  Then we were going to head up to the mountain early, but we had so many thing to get taken care of, we didn't make it out of the house until about 12:30. 

It all worked out fine, since we had skis and boots and polls for everyone, so as soon as we unloaded from the truck, it only took a few minutes to get everyone booted up and on their skis and on to the slopes.  (Patrick still had to rent his, so he was a few minutes behind everyone else!)

Ryan was feeling fine, but with Christmas coming, and him feeling a little punky the last few days, we didn't want to risk him getting sick, so he stayed with Grandma, watching movies.  There are plenty of snow days left in the season, so we didn't feel (too) bad about leaving him at home.

Katie came down with a headache after the first hour, so she bundled up in the lodge with her book and a cup of hot chocolate (one more awesome reason for season passes and season rentals... You can have a bad day, and it doesn't really matter!). 

Connor did a few turns on the kids area, and decided he was ready for the chair lift and the easy runs on the mountain.  He did great!!  No falls and he kept getting better each run.  He would go up with either Patrick or Grandpa, and they both said he was in control the whole time.  And most importantly, he seemed to be having fun.

Allen was off doing his black diamonds, like usual.  He came down one run and was so excited... He had accidentally gone onto the moguls.  He thought they were great!  His new boots were a little tight, so we'll bring them into the pro shop on Monday to see if they can do anything to make them fit a little better.  I figure it's like a new set of heals... the first time you wear them, you get blisters and hate them.  But the more you wear them, the more comfortable they become.  At least I hope so, since they were not cheep! 

We met with Grandma and Ryan at the Lazy Doe in Monarch for dinner.  It's about half way to the mountain (about 20 minutes from the house), and they have great steaks!  We finished out a great dinner with fifty cents and a pool table.  We didn't really play pool, but we showed the kids how to hold the stick, and let Ryan throw the balls into the pockets. 

Another awesome day!  Tomorrow will be packed with last minutes shopping and parties and church and more parties and family.  Hopefully, the kids will be exhausted by the end of the day... :)

December 22, 2011

Outside Temp: 33 F (yes, the snow is melting... I'm planning on a dirt Christmas.. :( )

What I cooked today:
Nothing: We were out for all meals today, so I did absolutely no cooking.

Update:
The kid's school had lunch today for the community.  The superintendent made Philly Steak Sandwiches for everyone!  So, Patrick and I went into school, with Patrick's parents, for lunch, which was kind of awesome.  I love how the school invites the entire community to events like this.  I felt a little bad when I realized the basketball teams had home games today, but we had other plans.  Next time!

The kids had a totally nothing day of playing and watching movies until 1, when they were released for Christmas Break... Woo Hoo!  A week and a half of not waking up to my alarm!  Oh wait, I mean, the kids don't have to wake up... It's not all about me, is it? 

We drove into town today to see about getting skis for the kids.  It's $21 per person for rentals, and we are planning on spending plenty of days up there.  We found that the Pro Shop in town has a deal for kids where they can rent the skis, poles and boots for the entire season for $140.  Since I'm pretty sure we'll be going up there at least 7 more times this season, that works out great!

Unfortunately, Allen is too big for junior skis.  So, we had to break down and get him skis and boots.  Ugh, not happy about that one, but they do fit him better than rentals and it saves us the time and hassle of renting for the season.  The skis should last at least a few more years, and the boots, well, maybe Connor can have them next year!  Or maybe I'll be lucky, and his huge feet won't grow anymore. 

I also was allowed to open my Christmas present from my mom early, a new camera!!  We saw another bald eagle on the drive into town, and I wished I'd opened my present a little earlier.  Maybe it will be around next time, so I can get a picture.  But, until then, I can't wait to take some pictures tomorrow on the slopes!  We'll be heading up there tomorrow, after we help out at the church decorating the tree for Saturday's service.

Ryan is still a little punky, so he'll be staying with Grandma for the day.  But the three other kids are looking forward to trying out their new skis!  And the only rentals for the day will be Patrick's!  I'm planning on a nice cozy day in the lodge with my hot chocolate and my Kindle.  :)

December 18, 2011

Outside Temp: 28 F (and dropping... with a little snow! Woo Hoo!)

What I cooked today:
French Toast: We needed a hearty breakfast to give us energy for our busy day.  But, since I didn't feel like making oatmeal, we ended up with French Toast.  Oh well, it worked out fine and no one complained about being hungry all day!

Chili: After our busy day, chili just hit the spot!  Warm and toasty, with protein and lots of cheese!

Update:
SKIING AT LAST!

We made it up to Showdown today for skiing.  It's about a 45 minute drive from our place.  Grandma had some things to get done at the house, so it was Grandpa and the 6 of us, which worked because the car only seats 7.  :)

Patrick's skis were too tall, and his boots were too small, so he needed to rent boots and skis.  Katie's skis were too tall, and her boots were adult boots (which fit her just fine, but didn't fit the kid's skis that we rented), so we needed to get her skis and boots.  Of course, Allen, Connor and Ryan needed skis and boots.  Argh, I think it might be time to invest in buying equipment if we really go up there every weekend for the next 4 months.  :)

The skiing was great and the weather was perfect.  It was around 40 most of the day, with it dropping to the high 20's by the time we left.  It started to snow around 2ish, and it was fun to watch the snow work it's way down the mountain.  At noon, you could see the top with no problem.  By the time we left, around 4:30, about half of the mountain was covered in the fog-like snowfall. 

Katie, looking warm and cute!	 Connor, skiing like a pro! 
Allen, shy as always!	 Ryan, able to get off the 'magic carpet' without falling! 
Allen and Grandpa (and Patrick) after a great run!	Patrick, too far away to hear me say SMILE!
Most awesome part of Showdown... notice the lack of lines!	Taken around 2pm, NO ONE is here! 

Showdown was awesome... there was no lines in the rental store, in the lodge, at the lifts or in the kids section.  There was a time where the only kids in the 'kids area' were mine!  When we returned our rentals, the people working there remembered us and we didn't even have to tell them our names.  They saved our cards so they would know what we needed next time.  Today was the second Sunday the slopes have been open. 

Ryan had a harness, and the kids area was about 200 ft long, with a couple cones to practice turns.  Ryan stayed on that section the entire time.  We found out quickly that, with the harness, it was easier for me to run along side or behind him than it was for Patrick or Grandpa to ski behind him.  So, I ran behind him all stinking day!  We had a lot of fun, but boy was it a lot of work. 

Katie wanted to go up to the Green slopes with Patrick, and did great!  She fell a few times and decided to go back to the 'kids area' for a little more practice on stopping and turning.  Connor waited until about 3 to ask to go up to the Green slopes and he only fell a few times.  They are both excited to go up again this Friday. 

Allen was going down the Black Diamonds with Grandpa from the beginning.  I don't think he fell and I'm just excited that he's having so much fun.  He LOVES it!  And apparently, he's pretty good.  Patrick did great and I think he said he ended up going down almost every run.  It helped that he rented boots that actually fit!  He was so happy to find that he can still ski! 

I can already see that this will become a weekend habit!  And it was only a 45 minute drive home afterwards!  Can't beat that! 

December 10, 2011

Outside Temp: 41 F (It was beautiful today! Highs in the 50's. I couldn't find my jacket and I didn't care!)


What I cooked today:
Patricks Tomato Soup Stuff: Today he made it with carrots, potatoes and kidney beans (in addition to his tomato soup, tomato paste, ground beef and onions). He said he didn't really like it, but it worked. Maybe a little too much taco seasoning or cumin, I couldn't tell, but I didn't really care. I didn't have to cook, it was warm, and I was hungry so I would have eaten anything!

Update:
Grandpa is still feeling ucky, so we will probably put off the skiing until next weekend. But with temps in the 50's, I don't really mind. I've heard that the slopes here are usually powder, with no ice, but with the higher temperatures, I guess you get more ice. Next weekend should actually be better skiing.

We got the Christmas lights up today, at least the 5 strings that we bought. Of course, that didn't even cover the entire front of the house. I figure I'll be getting a few more strings, to at least finish the front. I'd really like to add some to the back, since that is the side that faces the highway and I think it would be pretty for people on the highway to see.

After church, I did some housecleaning, since it hasn't really been done since we were in the hospital. Since we won't be skiing tomorrow, I didn't push it too much and I can finish tomorrow. But I did manage to get about 5 loads of laundry done, including the towels and sheets. I LOVE fresh sheets and towels!
 

November 23, 2011

Outside Temp: 51 F (where did my winter go?)

What I cooked today:
BBQ Pork Ribs: I got some ribs on sale today, so I took the easy way out and just tossed some BBQ sauce on them, and threw them in the oven.  Katie really wanted Sweet and Sour Pork, so I guess I'll have to make that next week. 

Pumpkin Bread: I'm bringing my pumpkin bread to Aunt Catherine's for Thanksgiving, so I had to make up some.  I ended up with a bundt and a loaf.  And of course, the kids dug into the loaf, so it's already gone.  Patrick wants me to make another batch, which I may just end up doing, just because. 

Update:
I noticed today, my page view count (i.e. the number of pages that have been seen by someone) hit 1000.  I still can't believe that anyone would be interested in anything I have to say, but with my total posts hitting 34, I've been doing this for a month.  And on average, each page has been viewed about 30 times.  That's amazing!  Thank you all for reading!

Ryan was feeling a little punky today, so we're watching him like a hawk.  It would be fitting if he got sick on Thanksgiving... there was a time that we couldn't get through a single holiday without a visit to the hospital.  He doesn't have a fever, just tired, which is similar to how I felt a few days ago.  If we're lucky, he may just have a touch of a flu.  We are debating bringing him down to Aunt Catherine's, since I'd hate to get anyone sick.  We'll decide tomorrow morning, but I figure that if we make it through the night (being hooked up to his TPN) and don't have to bring him into the hospital, that would be a good sign.




The Highwood Mountains, on the drive back home from Great Falls

 I made my weekly trek into Great Falls for groceries today.  I didn't end up getting much, and I'm getting more used to the drive.  You know how it gets when you do a certain 30-40 minute drive often enough, that you begin to recognize turns and trees and when there's room to pass and when you have a blind hill.  Oh wait, you may not since I've never been in a position like that!  The main highway is a 2 lane road, where you have to actually cross into oncoming traffic to pass.  And there are A LOT of trucks that travel that road.  So, I'm learning where the passing lanes are, when it's safe to pass, and when, if possible, you should pass because it will be another 8 miles before it will be safe again. 

The road is also really windy.  I'm not sure if that's a 'right now' type of thing, or if it's always that windy, but I was struggling to keep the car on the road.  I think the new tires are helping, a lot, but it's still hard.  Especially when a truck going the opposite way passes you. 

On the drive back, there was a car that had been blown off the road, and hit something (probably a mail box or a ditch).  The driver was fine and was walking towards town.  I almost stopped and offered him a ride, but I had to get back home to drop off escrow papers.  I know, the concept of stopping for a stranded driver is pretty foreign to me, but it was also about 10 miles into Armington, and I'd hate to be the one walking that far. 

The ski slopes are scheduled to be opened on December 9th, but they had a warning to people who would hike up to the slopes and try to ski down.  Not exactly that they couldn't ski down, just that they should avoid the steep runs.  Apparently, that's a pretty common occurrence, especially over Thanksgiving break... the kids hiking up there to ski since they're out of school anyway.  They only have about 22 inches of snow right now.  And there's something about the snow has to pack down between storms to keep it from sliding.  Either way, I can't wait to see the kids on the slopes!

The kids wanted to watch 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers' tonight.  If you've never seen it, it's a totally cute old movie.  Singing and dancing, which is always a requisite for those types of movies.  The kids were dancing around the living room, and singing along with the songs.  Of course, we all agree that the husband, Adam, is just an idiot.  :)