Squirrels and Ketchum and Cupcakes...oh my

 

Seems like we've been going non-stop since our return from Santa Ana. Our family made a couple of trips to Bogus, skiing twice so far this year. Now that he's 3 and 3/4, Cole is much more confident on skis and in fact, did not want me to ski backwards in front of him doing the reverse snowplow, which is a slowing and controlling tactic I picked up by ski instructor observation, because "Move it. I want to go fast mom." Reminds me of some movie with Will Farrell. I wonder what we're in for? I only went on one run with Charlie, but I'm quite certain that he'll be giving me lessons in a year or two. When I commented on his skiing prowess he said, "Mom, you just need to practice and you can be a good skier too."

We had a big snow day last week, which brought squirrels from far and wide. John and Charlie built a "squirrel feeder" last year and it gets plenty of action when the snow flies. Gloria seems to be in her element, stalking and chasing the little critters (you'll notice at least 5 squirrels in the picture). If she's not outside protecting our yard from the evil "invaders", she's keeping close watch by the window.

John graciously agreed to watch the boys last weekend so I could spend some time with girlfriends in Ketchum. It was definitely one of those "take care of yourself" weekends. We ate "live" pizza. For those NOT in the know...The crust was ground flax seeds, walnuts, apples, zucchini, olives, tomatoes and olive oil, pressed and dehydrated. The "cheese" was a paste of ground macadamia nuts, olive oil and lemon juice. There was a pureed tomato sauce. It was topped with peppers and basil. We skate-skied twice, meditated (that was a first, but hopefully not last for me), we also visited and partook in other fine foods. What I especially loved about the weekend was the positive energy that surrounded me (Christine, Laurie, and Mother Nature in all their glory).

Today the Ritchie girls came over to play. We made Kool-Aid playdough...mmm it smells so good AND heart-shaped cupcakes. Of course, we'll only be eating the cupcakes. Life is good!