This past holiday weekend we went to Flagstaff with my sister- and brother-in law’s family to play in the snow. It was a wonderful, relaxing few days away. There’s nothing like being able to drive a few hours away, to enjoy a completely different climate, being watched over by gorgeous mountains.
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I am not one for winter sports…you won’t catch me skiing, or doing anything involving getting chilled to the bone, 
trudging through snow. Rather, my idea of a wonderful winter sport is cozying up in front of a roaring fire, sipping some rich hot cocoa topped with whipped cream, reading some wonderful book, while snow lazily floats down outside. However, I
had a ton of fun watching everyone sled and tube down the little 
slopes, and even took a turn sliding down with my niece. Lucky for Beau that his Dad is more of a winter sport person. He got to go down a little slope with him, though I’m not sure how much he enjoyed it! It was invigorating to be outside, breathing in the crisp mountain air, being surrounded by nature in all her glory.
trudging through snow. Rather, my idea of a wonderful winter sport is cozying up in front of a roaring fire, sipping some rich hot cocoa topped with whipped cream, reading some wonderful book, while snow lazily floats down outside. However, I
had a ton of fun watching everyone sled and tube down the little 
slopes, and even took a turn sliding down with my niece. Lucky for Beau that his Dad is more of a winter sport person. He got to go down a little slope with him, though I’m not sure how much he enjoyed it! It was invigorating to be outside, breathing in the crisp mountain air, being surrounded by nature in all her glory. Â
We also took The Polar Express (commonly known as The Grand 
Canyon Railway) from Williams all the way to The North Pole. 
On board, we enjoyed hot cocoa and chocolate chip cookies, listened to The Polar Express being read aloud, sang Christmas carols, and got to see Santa. I probably had the most fun of our bunch; it was so magical to see the children get so excited to actually see Santa and get a bell from him. I felt a little like a kid again, with no worries, believing that anything is possible.
Canyon Railway) from Williams all the way to The North Pole. 
On board, we enjoyed hot cocoa and chocolate chip cookies, listened to The Polar Express being read aloud, sang Christmas carols, and got to see Santa. I probably had the most fun of our bunch; it was so magical to see the children get so excited to actually see Santa and get a bell from him. I felt a little like a kid again, with no worries, believing that anything is possible.
On our drives there and back, I couldn’t help but imagine what it must
have felt like to trek to Arizona as a pioneer. Leaving everything you had ever known, navigating your way through a harsh climate and terrain, knowing that death could find you at any time in any manner, hoping that what you were after would sustain you and your family in such a way as to make all your sacrifices worthwhile. What bravery, courage, and determination it took to homestead this place I call home.
trosekay says
It sounds like you had a magical time. Growing up in Utah, I’ve had those same thoughts of the pioneers when I’ve traveled…especially driving West across Colorado. I can definately see why Denver was settled…they didn’t want to go over the mountains.
Your comments about your favorite why to enjoy the snow made me smile too, I’m exactly the same. Even though I have lived in Utah most of my life. Winter is not my thing….why can’t it just snow in the mountains so I can admire it’s beauty from afar.
Holli says
Freaking hate winter sports!! I’m so with you on that one. Why in the world do I want to freeze my ass off playing outside in winter when I can wait until summer and THEN go outside? Sledding was always fun though. Especially in high school. A bunch of friends, big inner tubes, a thermos of hot chocolate laced with peppermint schnapps…. 🙂
That picture up there on the very right? The shadow one? LOVE it.
Brandie says
I agree with you about sitting in front of the fire with a good book and some hot chocolate, watching the snow come down. It’s snowing here today, and I would love to be doing just that! It’s a perfect idea! Sounds like you had a really wonderful time! We have the Polar Express in this area that is hugely popular. I have a ton of friends who take their kids on it every year. Seems like a really great time for all!
Hannah Banana says
Oooh, looks like so much fun. I'm jealous of the Polar Express & the gorgeous views! When we drive through TN where the roads are surrounded by tall rock walls that have been blasted to pave way, I also can't help but think about how people used to travel before our roads were made. Boy, do we have it made now.
shelby says
Oh that is sooo pretty!
WendyB says
I hate winter sports too but I am now desperately craving hot chocolate and chocolate chip cookies.
GardeningJo says
I love both the indoor and outdoor sides of snow! I love being out in it and I love being all cozied up inside watching it too! (Yup, I’m one of those!) Sounds like a fantastic time was had by all!
Messmer Family says
I just wanted to add that your sister in laws hair looks so cute in that picture of her and beau and Santa. I know I will forget to mention it on Monday.
Lizzi says
Tamye,
I’ll let Mirandi know. I love her hair too. Maybe mine will look like that one day too, if I ever grow it out!! 🙂
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