The Snow Storm that Wasn't

This week as we were preparing to head south for our midwinter trip, we were also preparing for an "epic" blizzard.

The weatherman warned of 24 inches of snow in less than 24 hours.  School was cancelled.  Airports were closed.   The city was shutting down and our trip was off.  Damn.

We decided to make the best of it and stock up on hot chocolate and baking supplies.

Walking home from school

We set our sights on sledding and snow fort building.

And we waited.

And wouldn't you know the blizzard didn't happen.  We got maybe 8-10 inches of snow, our first snow that was enough to cover the ground.  

Thankfully it was just enough for sledding and playing.  And since the subway and city was shut down until 9am we took advantage of some extra time with Charlie at home.

The snow is slowly melting as temps are well into the 30s now.  We're even expecting some rain in the coming days.  I wonder if this will be our only bit of snow play this year.

I know this might surprise you, being that I'm a southern gal, but I sure hope we get some more snow.  If it's going to be cold we might as well have some snow to play in, especially since apartment living means we don't have to shovel!

Ski Report

We're gearing up for the mountains in March.  Freddie is still a bit timid on skis and I don't anticipate that changing for quite some time.  I don't know if he'll ever feel comfortable on a lift.

We'll have to watch this one though.  He wanted down the hill and fast.

If he's half as aggressive on skis as he is on his scooter we're in trouble.

Snow Angel

Looks can be deceiving.

Baby, It's Cold Outside

On Tuesday a huge snowstorm made it's way to the northeast.  They boys were thrilled and couldn't wait to play in the snow.  They planed to have the first tracks on the sledding hill Wednesday morning, but when the weatherman wouldn't stop talking about the danger of frostbite and the -25 degree windchill we convinced the boys to wait for some warmer temperatures, because the snow would be around for a while.  We weren't expected to get above freezing for at least two weeks.  Finally on Friday morning Charlie decided to get the boys out first thing.  They were thrilled.

Don't let those cheesing faces fool you.  Getting everyone dressed and out the door involved a lot of this…

I am determined to find some child friendly gloves/mittens that actually stay on.  (Has anyone tried L-Bow mittens?)  I think that'd help the getting out the door and staying warm outside struggle.

I had planned to stay in but decided I wanted to see the boys enjoy the snow.  I can't believe how much Hans has changed his feelings about playing in the snow since last year.  He loves it now.

Freddie enjoys the sled, but really just kinda likes putzing around in the snow.

I think they could just both hang out in the snow for the day and be completely happy.  Too bad I cannot do the same!

Temps are hovering around 20 degrees, with wind chills fluctuating and sometime dipping below zero. We're spending most of our time looking at the snow from the window but we're still getting out to head to swim lessons, the library, and other errands.  Life goes on even when we're freezing!

I'm thankful these guys appreciate what winter has to offer.

Let it Snow

Finally some snow that stuck….

but it wasn't sticking around for long.  Since it was going to warm and rain before the next morning and the snow would be gone when we woke up, the guys decided to head outside while it was still coming down and play for a bit.

Construction has taken over the sledding hill but the boys managed to find a small patch to sled down.

Best news of the season:  Hans likes snow!  He wasn't a fan last year.

Hoping for a few big snowstorms this season.  If it's going to be cold, it might as well be snowing!

(Thanks to Charlie for taking pics since Mama was inside SICK! And she's still sick.  Awful timing since there is too much holiday fun to be had!)

More Snow

Sunshine and a crowded hill...

Joy..

Watching...

Playtime...

Friends...

Fun...