First Ski Outing of the Year

We finally went on our first ski outing of the season.  Due to the lack of snow we've been having here in Missoula and surrounding areas, it has been hard to get into the skiing spirit, but at least you don't need much snow to ski the bunny hill.

As we were driving up the hill to Snowbowl, we had a discussion with Hailey about skiing last year.  Keep in mind she probably skied 5-6 times last year. We asked her what she remembered about it and here is what we got: "I ate pizza and animal crackers at the restaurant."  Yep....of course she only remembers the food.

Up the rope tow with Daddy and Mommy!

After getting all the gear and things up to the hill we were ready for our first trip up the rope.  She was a little unsure, and skied between Kevin's legs.  She seemed to be enjoying herself.  The next few runs were the same....wanting to stay close to Daddy.  Then I went up a run or two with her.  Things were starting to get better.  Finally, in the last few runs of the day....she got it!  She was doing her pie, turning and getting down the hill on her own.  She thought it was pretty fun to ski back and forth across the hill from Mommy and then to Daddy.  We were amazed at how quickly she picked it up.  We were so proud of her and she was pretty proud of herself too.

 Skiing with Daddy.  Getting lessons on making pie and steering.  Most importantly...and what she has the most trouble with....paying attention.

 Skiing with Mommy.  It was a lot of fun getting out there with her.  Last year I was unable to because Sydney had just born and we sat the bottom cheering Hailey on for the season.  So looking forward to all the skiing with Hailey this year!

Pretty excited to be skiing like a big girl.

The following morning (Sunday) she woke up and first thing she asked me.  "Where are my skis?"  Then, "Are we going skiing today?"  She is pretty pumped about skiing right now and that makes us happy.  

We did get out again this weekend.  She went right up and skied down on her own.  She is starting to control her speed when she needs to, is turning on her own, and can go from the top to bottom all by herself...even stopping to get in line without crashing.  After 10 or so runs on the bunny hill we went in for a snack.  She then asked to go back out and wanted to do 3 more runs.  Sydney and I staying in the lodge and warmed up by the fire.  When Kevin and Hailey returned, she had done 5 more run and without her tip-wedgie.  She is really getting pretty good.  Looking forward to next weekend!

A special thanks to Katie for watching Hailey on our first trip up...it was so nice to have gotten the time with Hailey.  We really appreciate it!