I have tried so hard to expose my kids to snowboarding and skiing over the past few weeks. Peyton liked the idea of it before she went, but now she does not want anything to do with it at all. I am not sure what has turned her off to it. Was it something her dad said to her? Was it something her brother mentioned?
It saddens me that something I have so learned to love. I wanted to share it with my kids hoping this would be a fun thing for us to do together. Something that we could do together. I honestly wonder if there is any way that I can get her to like it? I don't think I liked it at that age then either. I don't think I learned to love it until this last year. So how do I get her to see how fun it can be? How do I re-introduce it to her so she does not feel like she will be lost?
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Life is beautiful
I'm not sure if it really is the way I believe or if it really is just this way, but I am a lucky girl.
Saturday, I was lucky enough to have my photos taken with the amazingly lovely Iman Woods (and got made up by Sarah and had my hair done by Dawn). I not only felt so absolutely beautiful. It was so much fun to be made up. (For only a moment I thought that perhaps I should have been living in the 1940s). Beyond what I felt being made up and looking so beautiful - I was more amazed at the discussion that was had among women who undoubtedly, come from totally different backgrounds. About how women are beautiful no matter what shape or size they are.
The discussion reminded me that I must be the voice of beauty for my daughter. Someone who must teach her that she is beautiful. She is perfectly perfect just as she is. I must tell her it is ok to feel however she feels. I must remind her to speak her mind - and MAKE people listen. I must remind her not to listen when others words hurt and stand firm in who she is.
On the way home, I had a moment to think. In this time, I reflected on how I am so lucky. I have these two beautiful kids who are perfect as they are. I am lucky that somehow I have been chosen to be their mom - to show them how to have gratitude daily for their place in life. Yes life is beautiful. So am I and so are my kids.
Saturday, I was lucky enough to have my photos taken with the amazingly lovely Iman Woods (and got made up by Sarah and had my hair done by Dawn). I not only felt so absolutely beautiful. It was so much fun to be made up. (For only a moment I thought that perhaps I should have been living in the 1940s). Beyond what I felt being made up and looking so beautiful - I was more amazed at the discussion that was had among women who undoubtedly, come from totally different backgrounds. About how women are beautiful no matter what shape or size they are.
The discussion reminded me that I must be the voice of beauty for my daughter. Someone who must teach her that she is beautiful. She is perfectly perfect just as she is. I must tell her it is ok to feel however she feels. I must remind her to speak her mind - and MAKE people listen. I must remind her not to listen when others words hurt and stand firm in who she is.
On the way home, I had a moment to think. In this time, I reflected on how I am so lucky. I have these two beautiful kids who are perfect as they are. I am lucky that somehow I have been chosen to be their mom - to show them how to have gratitude daily for their place in life. Yes life is beautiful. So am I and so are my kids.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Interview with a 6th Grader - Ski at Echo Mountain
Interview with a 6th Grader
I interviewed my son, who had the 5th grade passport last year and learned how to ski at Echo Mountain. But I think he had more fun asking me questions.
What did you like best about learning to ski?
You should take a friend. Because I was with my friend and we were together it was more fun. I was just a beginner …the teacher treated us like kids but also like we were pros. The line between you can totally do it and you just need some tips. It is a lot of fun and there are a TON of nice people there. The best part was being with my friend.
Why did you decide on Echo Mountain?
I live not so far away from it. My friend doesn’t either. It was a place we could go and not have to kill the planet more.
Will you go again this year?
I want to, but at first, I want to stay in the fenced area (near the magic carpet) not at the bottom of the mountain. It kind of scares me.
What do you want to learn this year?
How to Hockey stop.
Why that?
Because it looks really cool.
Why did you try skiing?
I got the 5th grade passport my mom said, “I have to be a Colorado guy.” I love Echo Mountain. I really do. I really like Keystone because it was at the base of the mountain so you could stop easier. Flat then incline and you can slide down.
You tried both Boarding and Skiing. Why did you like skiing better?
It was easier. My legs hurt for the next 5 days after snowboarding.
Do you like to be interviewed?
I actually do because I feel famous. But can I ask you some questions?
When did you learn how to ski?
I learned a long time ago, when I was just a little younger than you. But I just learned how to snowboard last year, when you were learning how to ski!
What do you like about Echo Mountain?
Like you said, the people are really nice. I love that it didn’t take us so long in the car [to get there]. I also like that I could see what you were doing in your lessons.
Will we get to ski and snowboard together this year?
You bet! I can’t wait for Echo Mountain to open so we can do it with little sDoes belief equal action?
If you really believe that something will be, can you will it into action? Can you simply hope that the dreams you have will come true? Or by dreaming and hoping will I put in different attention to it?
I believe that my life is the way I wish for it to be (and when it was not I changed it). While it is not really the husband, 2.5 kids, dog, house and SUV - I'm not certain that was MY dream anyway. I dream of taking life for all it has to offer. I dream of taking all the adventures I have when I have the opportunity.
I do believe that good things happen to me because I believe that I live a good life. I need nothing more than what I have. It is funny, as I don't really think that I have a super positive attitude. Until someone points out to me that I see things in a really different way. I do try to see the silver lining in the clouds. I seek that one thing that is positive in any situation. I look for the learning in it. I love the opportunity to learn more about myself and those around me. I look for the smile. And sometimes I look for the frown and try to strategize how to have someone else see the situation the way I do.
I could be mad, I could be angry, I could be down on myself...but I choose to see the happy. How do you see life?
I believe that my life is the way I wish for it to be (and when it was not I changed it). While it is not really the husband, 2.5 kids, dog, house and SUV - I'm not certain that was MY dream anyway. I dream of taking life for all it has to offer. I dream of taking all the adventures I have when I have the opportunity.
I do believe that good things happen to me because I believe that I live a good life. I need nothing more than what I have. It is funny, as I don't really think that I have a super positive attitude. Until someone points out to me that I see things in a really different way. I do try to see the silver lining in the clouds. I seek that one thing that is positive in any situation. I look for the learning in it. I love the opportunity to learn more about myself and those around me. I look for the smile. And sometimes I look for the frown and try to strategize how to have someone else see the situation the way I do.
I could be mad, I could be angry, I could be down on myself...but I choose to see the happy. How do you see life?
Monday, October 10, 2011
Interesting life?
I usually have my days full of events and fun. I have a cross section of things that I do. Is is fun to have different things going on? I like being busy. I like having a ton to do. I like my days full. It makes me feel that I am making the most of my short life.
Don't get me wrong, I don't really believe that I am going to die any time soon (at least I hope not). I just don't really feel that I am doing myself or the world any favors by sitting around watchign TV and hoping that I will enjoy a fulfilled life. I did that for too long and I'm ready to let that life go. I'm ready to live the life I was meant to. One that let's me experience, see and do fun!
By consequence, my kids have to/get to do some really interesting stuff. This weekend, we had several errands to do and each of them included a coupon or freebie in some way. It started with getting the kid their ski gear, then going to the mall - where I used my $10 off coupon at JC Penney for my son (he got new jeans), then Kohl's where I used another $10 coupon - this time for my daughter (she got to pick out sweats). Then we headed over to Sam's Club to get the best inexpensive lunch ever! (Who can argue with $1.50 hot dog and drink)?
We were not done with the day - after the errands of running around we went to my friend's daughter's 2nd birthday party. Complete with loads of PINK!
Sunday was spent with the kiddos creating Halloween crafts from milk jug ghosts and cookies.
I will say that it was not perhaps one of the healthiest weekends in a LONG time. But we are getting there. We are having fun. I am trying to learn that while my son likes and will go along with my taking them everywhere and basically not being able to stay in the house for a full day. I also have a daughter who would prefer to sleep in until 11 am and stay in her pajamas all day long without leaving the house once! GASP!
Don't get me wrong, I don't really believe that I am going to die any time soon (at least I hope not). I just don't really feel that I am doing myself or the world any favors by sitting around watchign TV and hoping that I will enjoy a fulfilled life. I did that for too long and I'm ready to let that life go. I'm ready to live the life I was meant to. One that let's me experience, see and do fun!
By consequence, my kids have to/get to do some really interesting stuff. This weekend, we had several errands to do and each of them included a coupon or freebie in some way. It started with getting the kid their ski gear, then going to the mall - where I used my $10 off coupon at JC Penney for my son (he got new jeans), then Kohl's where I used another $10 coupon - this time for my daughter (she got to pick out sweats). Then we headed over to Sam's Club to get the best inexpensive lunch ever! (Who can argue with $1.50 hot dog and drink)?
We were not done with the day - after the errands of running around we went to my friend's daughter's 2nd birthday party. Complete with loads of PINK!
Sunday was spent with the kiddos creating Halloween crafts from milk jug ghosts and cookies.
I will say that it was not perhaps one of the healthiest weekends in a LONG time. But we are getting there. We are having fun. I am trying to learn that while my son likes and will go along with my taking them everywhere and basically not being able to stay in the house for a full day. I also have a daughter who would prefer to sleep in until 11 am and stay in her pajamas all day long without leaving the house once! GASP!
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Do what you love
I have often heard it said that I should do what I want to do. That when you do something you enjoy the money will come. So I am going out in faith. I am seeking to find a way to help businesses find the right location for their events, meetings and conferences.
This job at HelmsBriscoe is so exciting for me. I get to do what I wish. I have the opportunity to work with hotels and venues to find the right location. I get to work with companies that I respect or enjoy. (At this point I have been able to focus on Colorado Companies and companies who believe in fitness and healthy lifestyles).
A book I once read, said to explore what you did as a child to try to remember what it was the occupied your time and attention. I was addicted to travel magazines. I dreampt of getting to go to amazing hotels. I still get giddy when I get to go to a hotel. I love the beautiful lobbies, the amazing rooms and the details of the shampoo and soaps that are left in the room.
In addition to that, I help companies who are healthy. I can recall learning how to drive and telling my parents that I would not be using a car to go to the mall. That I would continue getting there on bike - thank you very much. And the very first paycheck I received from my first job out of college was spent on a membership to a gym. I am happy that now I can do both. I can help companies I admire!
And the core piece of that that I enjoy so much is the fact that it offers me a lifestyle that allows me to be there for my kids. It allows me do work out. Allows me to not be at the beck and call of someone else's schedule.
I think I am lucky to say that I am one of the few people in the United States that can say I love my job. I love the choices I am able to make.
Email me if you know someone who books hotel rooms for their company, I would love to help them out!
This job at HelmsBriscoe is so exciting for me. I get to do what I wish. I have the opportunity to work with hotels and venues to find the right location. I get to work with companies that I respect or enjoy. (At this point I have been able to focus on Colorado Companies and companies who believe in fitness and healthy lifestyles).
A book I once read, said to explore what you did as a child to try to remember what it was the occupied your time and attention. I was addicted to travel magazines. I dreampt of getting to go to amazing hotels. I still get giddy when I get to go to a hotel. I love the beautiful lobbies, the amazing rooms and the details of the shampoo and soaps that are left in the room.
In addition to that, I help companies who are healthy. I can recall learning how to drive and telling my parents that I would not be using a car to go to the mall. That I would continue getting there on bike - thank you very much. And the very first paycheck I received from my first job out of college was spent on a membership to a gym. I am happy that now I can do both. I can help companies I admire!
And the core piece of that that I enjoy so much is the fact that it offers me a lifestyle that allows me to be there for my kids. It allows me do work out. Allows me to not be at the beck and call of someone else's schedule.
I think I am lucky to say that I am one of the few people in the United States that can say I love my job. I love the choices I am able to make.
Email me if you know someone who books hotel rooms for their company, I would love to help them out!
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Schitzo
I feel like I'm in my own version of some weird split personality disorder. Being a divorced mom, I have the life of a doting mom who is there for her kids.....AND that of a 20+ year old who likes to go out and do adventurous things.
Can I sustain this life for long? Do I want to? Sure. There are parts of it that are so much fun, I hope that I am teaching my kids that age had no bearing on what a person can do or what someone thinks is fun. I know too many people that think they can no longer go out to clubs, events or even simply to learn how to do something new when they have kids. I do not want to be that kind of parent. I want to teach my kids that learning is not done the minute you get out of school. It is a continual process.
One weekend I am writing about the wonderful things my kids did and about the minutes that I get to spend with them creating a dinner or doing a fun event. I think of adventures that I can do with them and things they will enjoy. I think of things that are family friendly - from going to the zoo, museum or even a movie.
But then the next weekend, I will do something like going out to see my friend's band perform, or a long hike, or shopping until the mall closes, or perfecting my snowboarding skills (so my kids believe that I have just learned only when they are with me - sneaky huh?) I fill my time with things I enjoy but can not do with the kids in tow - especially at the ages that they are now. My kids at age 10 and 11 are typically bored when I drag them to something that is too "family friendly" because they are too "old" for the event. Or they are bored because it is all a bunch of adults or certainly not their speed. They do not like to go on my long hikes. They can't go to a casino for the evening. They would not be welcomed at the bar (nor would I take them there).
Can I sustain this life for long? Do I want to? Sure. There are parts of it that are so much fun, I hope that I am teaching my kids that age had no bearing on what a person can do or what someone thinks is fun. I know too many people that think they can no longer go out to clubs, events or even simply to learn how to do something new when they have kids. I do not want to be that kind of parent. I want to teach my kids that learning is not done the minute you get out of school. It is a continual process.
One weekend I am writing about the wonderful things my kids did and about the minutes that I get to spend with them creating a dinner or doing a fun event. I think of adventures that I can do with them and things they will enjoy. I think of things that are family friendly - from going to the zoo, museum or even a movie.
But then the next weekend, I will do something like going out to see my friend's band perform, or a long hike, or shopping until the mall closes, or perfecting my snowboarding skills (so my kids believe that I have just learned only when they are with me - sneaky huh?) I fill my time with things I enjoy but can not do with the kids in tow - especially at the ages that they are now. My kids at age 10 and 11 are typically bored when I drag them to something that is too "family friendly" because they are too "old" for the event. Or they are bored because it is all a bunch of adults or certainly not their speed. They do not like to go on my long hikes. They can't go to a casino for the evening. They would not be welcomed at the bar (nor would I take them there).
Friday, September 30, 2011
What to do with $100?
Why is it somehow more difficult to spend $100 when you have it - than when you don't? I was lucky enough to receive $100 gift card to Amazon.com. I'm super excited about it and go rounds in my head about what I should do with it. I agonize between spending it totally frivolously on myself (in case you don't know....I'm proud of the fact that I seek and get great deals) or if I should so something uber responsible with it.
I dream. I shop. I even posted pictures. I have it narrowed down to a Kindle - my sister has one and says such great things about it, BUT I'm thinking I want to get an iPad. But, I can't afford an iPad right now and certainly can't justify spending that kind of money as a single mom when I really COULD spend the money it costs for that iPad on winter clothes for my kids or another pair of shoes for them. I have a pair of Dansko shoes that I love, love, love - I've even swayed several friends to buy their own pair (and my mom has bought several pair) but the ones I have are almost 11 years old. YES! I have shoes that are almost as old as my son. So proof positive that they last (which I really need when I only buy something for myself every 11 years). Pair of UGG boots. In my view the boots are the most frivolous of them all. I really want a pair -but once again there are several other brands that LOOK like UGGs but they just are not the same. I have gone to the store for several years now and tried them on each year.
OR
I could do the totally responsible thing buy some Christmas gifts for my kids. Stock them up. Have nothing to buy in a matter of months. Spread out the wealth....
What to do?
Yes, when I don't have $100 I have no problem spending it in the Grocery Store!
I dream. I shop. I even posted pictures. I have it narrowed down to a Kindle - my sister has one and says such great things about it, BUT I'm thinking I want to get an iPad. But, I can't afford an iPad right now and certainly can't justify spending that kind of money as a single mom when I really COULD spend the money it costs for that iPad on winter clothes for my kids or another pair of shoes for them. I have a pair of Dansko shoes that I love, love, love - I've even swayed several friends to buy their own pair (and my mom has bought several pair) but the ones I have are almost 11 years old. YES! I have shoes that are almost as old as my son. So proof positive that they last (which I really need when I only buy something for myself every 11 years). Pair of UGG boots. In my view the boots are the most frivolous of them all. I really want a pair -but once again there are several other brands that LOOK like UGGs but they just are not the same. I have gone to the store for several years now and tried them on each year.
OR
I could do the totally responsible thing buy some Christmas gifts for my kids. Stock them up. Have nothing to buy in a matter of months. Spread out the wealth....
What to do?
Yes, when I don't have $100 I have no problem spending it in the Grocery Store!
MHM Denver Deal: Free Day, Ski Passport & more
Do you have some great suggestions on where to get a Halloween costume and not pay a ton for it? We are already seeing some fun events for Halloween. If you know of any please send them our direction. And if you are looking for something fun to do for the next few weeks – keep reading!
Denver Art Museum Free Day
The Denver Art Museum is offer a free day on October 1, 2011 as part of the Scientific Cultural and Facilities District.
Colorado Ski Country 5th and 6th Grade Passport
Every child who lives in Colorado has the opportunity to learn how to ski or snowboard with the Colorado Ski Country USA 5th & 6th Grade Passport program! The 5th Grade Passport is FREE! It includes 3 days of skiing/boarding at each of the 21 member resorts (INCLUDING Echo Mountain, Winter Park, Steamboat Springs, Crested Butte, Araphahoe Basin, Aspen, Eldora more!) The 6th Grade Passport is just $99 (they get an extra day at each resort)! Plus, many of the resorts include great deals for parents and other family who might be interested in joining their child on the slopes.
School of Shred
Vail Resorts offers their own version of the 5th grade passport with the School of Shred. The 11/12 School of Shred program provides 4 FREE days of skiing or riding at each of the state’s top-ranked resorts Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin for all Colorado fifth and sixth grade students who register by November 6, 2011. Returning this year, the School of Shred pass included one complimentary first-timer ski lesson and rental equipment for pass holders (Arapahoe Basin excluded). Lessons and rentals were provided from 11/28/11-12/18/11, as well as during the entire month of January as a part of “Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month”.
Halloween Activities
I am all for the kids getting full use of the costumes I pay so much for – so it is great when we can find Halloween Happenings that go on all month long! The annual fun at the Corn Maze at Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield (8500 Deer Creek Road) is always a fun place to get lost. (And yes, it took me what felt like a whole day to get out last year!) Set your “ghost-radar app” on your iPhone for fun at the Brown Palace Ghost Tour. Take the kids on a historical adventure that talks about the storied guests (including the Stock Show Steer that takes up residence in the lobby). Reinke Bros Haunted Mansion opens on Oct 3 with the Annual Zombie Crawl through downtown Littleton. The Four Mile Historic Park hosts the Pumpkin Harvest Festival on October 1 & 2 with county fair, pumpkin patch, old time music and more. For other great Halloween events visit doingdenverforless.com.
IHOP (International House of Pancakes) is celebrating Halloween all month with Pumpkin pancakes, Funny Face Pancake turns scary with “design-your-own” Scary Face Pancake for kids 12 and under (Count Spatula) and then on October 28 kids will be treated to a FREE Scary Face pancake!
Lesson Up
We have all seen the Groupons and Living Social deals. But here is perhaps one of the best ones I have seen for parents. It’s called Lesson Up. Where all those enrichment and lessons for kids are at a discounted rate!
Mindbloom
Kids are not the only one who need a bit of “enrichment”. I have discovered a fantastic new website that will help me grow as a parent, professional and as a person as a whole! Mindbloom.com allows you to help define and develop the parts of your life that are most important to you – and it all feels like a game! Check it out and let me know what you think!
Refuge Day
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge at its free, annual Refuge Day celebration on October 15, 2011, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The day will feature activities, tours and exhibits, scavenger hunt, as well as arts and crafts. The Refuge is is located at 6550 Gateway Road.
PARENT DEALS
Are you looking for a fun date night deal or information about clinics and information sessions just for parents? We are happy to share a couple great things going on in the next few weeks!
As part of a “tweet up” I was lucky enought to try chicken hearts, wild boar, yak and rattlesnake! You can try them too at the Rodizio Grill for a limited time!
Email me if you know of any great Denver deals!
Don’t want to miss any of Mile High Mamas’ contests and events? Be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter so you can forward these great deals to your friends.
You can also follow me on Twitter (GeeWhy93). If I find a great deal during the week, I’ll tweet it out.
More from Mile High Mamas
Positive Attitude
It is who I am. I to have a tendency to look at life in a positive way. I'm not certain why or how I got the I am. I think I would one day try to figure out if it is something that is born, inherited or if it is something that can be learned.
I have been lucky enough to be able to do the things I want to do in life. To understand limitations. I try never to be jealous of others but rather view my life in a happy way for the things I have worked toward and achieved. To always find something new to learn or to try to understand - even if that thing is less a thing but more of a person.
I do believe that people are put into our lives for different reasons at different times. The relationships we get to have with them are exactly as they are meant to be. Don't try to hang on to a relationship that is wrong - it is just meant to teach you something. If a relationship is great, never ever let it go. Take the time to nurture it.
I have heard it said that people will always disappoint you. But the way I think of it is this. Expect nothing from anyone other than yourself. Hold the best attitude toward others and try to be cognizant that they may have issues and things that you are are not aware of.
So, even if being positive is not something that is inherited, I hope that I am able to show my two children how having a positive attitude will have a profound effect in their life.
I have been lucky enough to be able to do the things I want to do in life. To understand limitations. I try never to be jealous of others but rather view my life in a happy way for the things I have worked toward and achieved. To always find something new to learn or to try to understand - even if that thing is less a thing but more of a person.
I do believe that people are put into our lives for different reasons at different times. The relationships we get to have with them are exactly as they are meant to be. Don't try to hang on to a relationship that is wrong - it is just meant to teach you something. If a relationship is great, never ever let it go. Take the time to nurture it.
I have heard it said that people will always disappoint you. But the way I think of it is this. Expect nothing from anyone other than yourself. Hold the best attitude toward others and try to be cognizant that they may have issues and things that you are are not aware of.
So, even if being positive is not something that is inherited, I hope that I am able to show my two children how having a positive attitude will have a profound effect in their life.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Snowboard Lessons
So, as I am telling stories of skiing and snowboarding last year, I would be remiss to mention the fact that it was the FIRST time ever for me to be on a snowboard. I had heard that it could be a bit difficult to learn, to take things slow, to be patient and not to plan on really knowing how to snowboard on the first try.
So my friend talked me into joining her at a ski resort not far from Denver. I had borrowed equipment from another friend. I had studied YouTube videos the night before "Beginning Snowboarding," "Learn to Snowboard" and "Snowboarding 101". Perhaps there was even one called, "Snowboarding for Dummies." But what they each should have said is, "There is absolutely, positively NO WAY you will learn how to snowboard using our videos." I honestly don't recommend teaching yourself to snowboard using YouTube videos.
I crashed and burned on the kiddie slope all day long. My friend was trying to be patient, but when mid-afternoon rolled around and I honestly could not figure out how to steer or stop the board. She got a bit concerned and called ski patrol to take me to the bottom of the mountain. For those of you who have never skied (or boarded), being taken to the bottom of the mountain by patrol is a pretty embarrassing proposition or means you got hurt. I will say I have still not been able to silence her on her advice to get a helmet. (I thought I was good with my matching beanie - it looked good).
I hate it when people say I can't do something (even if in this case the "people" I'm talking about were the muscles I didn't know I had). It drives me even more to do what some might think impossible. And at that point, I did kinda think that the possibility of me snowboarding was mission impossible but, I was not about to give up. I figured that I had heard that it takes a couple times to "get it" so this was just the first time. And then miraculously, went back for more!
This time I was smart enough to get lessons (for those of you who know how to ski - snowboarding is sooooo NOT the same thing). After my second day on the slopes, I was beginning to see improvement. I could actually stand up and go more than a few feet. I could stop it and to some extent steer.
I even go so enthused about the sport, I can't wait to get back. Keep following my blog to find out more about my adventures on the slopes, my son continuing to learn and then this year - I get to add my daughter who will likely 'board' circles around me by the first day.
So my friend talked me into joining her at a ski resort not far from Denver. I had borrowed equipment from another friend. I had studied YouTube videos the night before "Beginning Snowboarding," "Learn to Snowboard" and "Snowboarding 101". Perhaps there was even one called, "Snowboarding for Dummies." But what they each should have said is, "There is absolutely, positively NO WAY you will learn how to snowboard using our videos." I honestly don't recommend teaching yourself to snowboard using YouTube videos.
I crashed and burned on the kiddie slope all day long. My friend was trying to be patient, but when mid-afternoon rolled around and I honestly could not figure out how to steer or stop the board. She got a bit concerned and called ski patrol to take me to the bottom of the mountain. For those of you who have never skied (or boarded), being taken to the bottom of the mountain by patrol is a pretty embarrassing proposition or means you got hurt. I will say I have still not been able to silence her on her advice to get a helmet. (I thought I was good with my matching beanie - it looked good).
I hate it when people say I can't do something (even if in this case the "people" I'm talking about were the muscles I didn't know I had). It drives me even more to do what some might think impossible. And at that point, I did kinda think that the possibility of me snowboarding was mission impossible but, I was not about to give up. I figured that I had heard that it takes a couple times to "get it" so this was just the first time. And then miraculously, went back for more!
This time I was smart enough to get lessons (for those of you who know how to ski - snowboarding is sooooo NOT the same thing). After my second day on the slopes, I was beginning to see improvement. I could actually stand up and go more than a few feet. I could stop it and to some extent steer.
I even go so enthused about the sport, I can't wait to get back. Keep following my blog to find out more about my adventures on the slopes, my son continuing to learn and then this year - I get to add my daughter who will likely 'board' circles around me by the first day.
To Ski or Not to Ski
My son was in 5th grade last year. He was eligible for the 5th Grade Passport. A program offered by Colorado Ski Country where kids around the state are offered the opportunity to ski and/or snowboard.
I think I was more excited than he was about the opportunity. Growing up in Steamboat Springs, skiing was pretty natural to me (it was part of our gym class in elementary school). He had never been skiing or snowboarding in his whole life. Even though we live in Colorado - either money or his dad - we never did end up taking him skiing.
He chose Echo Mountain to learn to ski. It was the closest resort to Denver. And we talked his friend, Ryan into coming along as well. He was nervous. I was nervous for him. But once they got on the rental gear - there was no reason for fear or trepidation.
Not only were they in good hands with a great instructor, but as a mom, I could see exactly what he was doing from the lodge. I could look right across the balcony and see the "magic carpet." They came away from the day confident to try to do it again.
The only thing I was sad about was that we had waited until so late in the season to try it - I will get a earlier start on the season this next year.
It has also given me an opportunity to do something really different from what I know he will be getting from his dad. We can spend some great family time in the car and ski in a close friendly location. We will definately do more of it this year!
I think I was more excited than he was about the opportunity. Growing up in Steamboat Springs, skiing was pretty natural to me (it was part of our gym class in elementary school). He had never been skiing or snowboarding in his whole life. Even though we live in Colorado - either money or his dad - we never did end up taking him skiing.
He chose Echo Mountain to learn to ski. It was the closest resort to Denver. And we talked his friend, Ryan into coming along as well. He was nervous. I was nervous for him. But once they got on the rental gear - there was no reason for fear or trepidation.
Not only were they in good hands with a great instructor, but as a mom, I could see exactly what he was doing from the lodge. I could look right across the balcony and see the "magic carpet." They came away from the day confident to try to do it again.
The only thing I was sad about was that we had waited until so late in the season to try it - I will get a earlier start on the season this next year.
It has also given me an opportunity to do something really different from what I know he will be getting from his dad. We can spend some great family time in the car and ski in a close friendly location. We will definately do more of it this year!
Eat and Greet
I also write a blog for MileHighMamas.com. I am the deals editor there. It came as a very clandestine thing, I think. I had been writing several different "deals" that I would hear about and posting them to my facebook page. I had only recently been divorced and was trying to find ways to entertain myself and my kids on a SUPER limited budget (It's still limited).
Anyway, for that I do not get paid, I just do it because it is fun. I like to share great finds. Some women are happy when they find a great pair of shoes on sale. Me? I like to find a free Icee at AMC theaters on Friday nights. Every once in a while I get a "bone" thrown my way. Some little perk for writing about something. Giving an honest take.
I was SUPER excited when I was invited to the Zac Brown Band Eat and Greet when they came to Red Rocks Ampitheater. I used to work at a radio station, so I had seen a meet and greet before. You know, the kind where you shake hands with the band, pose for a silly photo you don't quite know what to do with and then you go on your merry little way. This was such a different experience I think I will be talking about it for YEARS to come!
Granted, I was already a fan of the band before I was invited (yes, I live in Colorado and listen to country music - I listen to pop too). But this was the coolest thing EVER. We (my friend came with me) were greeted by the band as we arrived at the Trading Post with warm and genuine smiles and handshakes. They then invited us to partake in a drink. Once the intimate group of 50 or so, were inside the picnic area.
Zac Brown himself and Chef Rusty said a quick hello to everyone (addressed us as a group) and told us how it would work. Chef Rusty explained the meal (a la those really cool shows that I pretend not to watch on the Food Network), complete with as much from local area that he could get (who knew that we grow white eggplant in Colorado?). Once he was done telling us what was on the food line - the band literally served us! They stood behind the serving line and put the food on our plates. Like we were really at a family picnic.
The family feel didn't end there. We quickly realized when we sat down that we really were among friends and family. The gentleman next to me was Clay's (the guitarist - among other instruments) dad. Jimmy, the fiddle player, sat next to us on the other side and across from us was the neighbors from home for Jimmy! Zac stopped by and told us about his four daughters and introduced us to his wife.
They asked us not to take any photos - because then the band would not feel comfortable like a real family picnic. So I don't have a cheesy photo to prove it. You'll just have to trust me.
Anyway, for that I do not get paid, I just do it because it is fun. I like to share great finds. Some women are happy when they find a great pair of shoes on sale. Me? I like to find a free Icee at AMC theaters on Friday nights. Every once in a while I get a "bone" thrown my way. Some little perk for writing about something. Giving an honest take.
I was SUPER excited when I was invited to the Zac Brown Band Eat and Greet when they came to Red Rocks Ampitheater. I used to work at a radio station, so I had seen a meet and greet before. You know, the kind where you shake hands with the band, pose for a silly photo you don't quite know what to do with and then you go on your merry little way. This was such a different experience I think I will be talking about it for YEARS to come!
Granted, I was already a fan of the band before I was invited (yes, I live in Colorado and listen to country music - I listen to pop too). But this was the coolest thing EVER. We (my friend came with me) were greeted by the band as we arrived at the Trading Post with warm and genuine smiles and handshakes. They then invited us to partake in a drink. Once the intimate group of 50 or so, were inside the picnic area.
Zac Brown himself and Chef Rusty said a quick hello to everyone (addressed us as a group) and told us how it would work. Chef Rusty explained the meal (a la those really cool shows that I pretend not to watch on the Food Network), complete with as much from local area that he could get (who knew that we grow white eggplant in Colorado?). Once he was done telling us what was on the food line - the band literally served us! They stood behind the serving line and put the food on our plates. Like we were really at a family picnic.
The family feel didn't end there. We quickly realized when we sat down that we really were among friends and family. The gentleman next to me was Clay's (the guitarist - among other instruments) dad. Jimmy, the fiddle player, sat next to us on the other side and across from us was the neighbors from home for Jimmy! Zac stopped by and told us about his four daughters and introduced us to his wife.
They asked us not to take any photos - because then the band would not feel comfortable like a real family picnic. So I don't have a cheesy photo to prove it. You'll just have to trust me.
Trying it another way
I have been divorced now for just over 2 years. I must say that for the most part this has been a good move for me and (hopefully) I have not scarred my children for life. I find that I am seeking all kinds of different things to do and to fill my time when the kids are not with me (I have a really messed up schedule with them, me and the ex). I also look for fun and exciting things to do with them when they are here.
I live in the greatest state (I think) for fun stuff to do. I am a proud native of Colorado! There are so many things to do here - many of which do not cost a lot. We can hike - or when I am tricking the kids into going along - it is just a "nature walk" or go sledding down at hill (in some parts of the country they might call them mountains).
I am finally settling into the single life with the kids with me every other weekend. I get to go out with friends and fill my time with part time jobs, volunteer opportunities (Ok, so I am volunteering at the beer festival - it doesn't sounds so impressive when I tell you the truth!) I am trying life another way. I am trying to take advantage of every moment I have!
I live in the greatest state (I think) for fun stuff to do. I am a proud native of Colorado! There are so many things to do here - many of which do not cost a lot. We can hike - or when I am tricking the kids into going along - it is just a "nature walk" or go sledding down at hill (in some parts of the country they might call them mountains).
I am finally settling into the single life with the kids with me every other weekend. I get to go out with friends and fill my time with part time jobs, volunteer opportunities (Ok, so I am volunteering at the beer festival - it doesn't sounds so impressive when I tell you the truth!) I am trying life another way. I am trying to take advantage of every moment I have!
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