Ice Skating on Stella Lake

Say what?! Yep! Last year we had our first ice skating experience on Stella Lake (posted here). Epic activity in the chapter of our life. I thought that would be a once-in-a-childhood opportunity for our kids. That was until we had a repeat dry weather pattern this year. The fact that we can get up the mountain in November is a big deal! Gretchen, Emma, Ava, Isaac, and I decided to try our luck again. After hiking up the trail and meandering through the aspens we were rewarded with a sunny sky and completely solid lake. Delightful! I used my ice skates for the first time that I'd received for Christmas last year (Thanks Ben!). Gretchen had adjustable kid's skates that Ava and Isaac borrowed. They took turns using them. Super cool. We were eager to get started!

The ice was smooth and clear on much of the lake. I could see rocks, sticks, and logs. Other parts of the ice had neat bubbles. Nature's artwork.....

We were super excited to be here!

Isaac had a rough go at skating in the beginning. But, he ended up getting a little more sure footed at the end of his turn. Ava and Emma acted like they'd been practicing all month haha.....

Looking at these photos makes my heart happy  :)

As I watched everyone on the ice I was filled with gratitude. Here we were, above 10,000 ft, on one of the greatest natural ice rinks you could ask for. After discovering the sweetest spots on the ice we were practicing turns, twists, and "dance" tricks. Even though we probably looked like Captain Jack Sparrow, we pretended we were an artistic dancer like Nancy Kerrigan lol ....... simply having a great time. These are the moments that drive me in life.

We paused to sip on hot chocolate and enjoy the incredible view. Then the kids decided to play hockey with some sticks :)

Dark shadows were cast upon half the lake by 2:45 pm. This reminded us to pack up and head down. As soon as the sun set it would be much colder. I almost left kicking and screaming. Not really, but I really wanted to stay and play. So in taking notes from Dr. Seuss ~ I didn't cry because it was over. I smiled because it happened! Again! 

My friend Gretchen captured our adventure too and she has a great post on her blog (Here).

Willow Turns 5 !

Our little princess turned 5 years of age! She's been looking forward to this for almost a year lol.
Little miss independent loves to remind us that she's a big girl. She loves barbies, mermaids, fairies, and dressing up (mostly like royalty). This girl turns our frowns upside down. She's got a contagious silliness and laughter. She talks more mature than a 5 year old. She can thank being the youngest of 3 for that I guess. She makes us laugh and has provided Ava with lots of material for her comic strips. Willow knows what she likes and isn't afraid to express it. She colors our world and she's on fire!

We had a small get-together to celebrate Willow's special day. It was a party fit for a princess.
Isaac was eager to help her light up her cupcakes.....

She was pleased when we started to sing to her......

There were several attempts to blow out the flames haha......

She eventually did it with a pleasing grin  :)
Thank you friends and family for the cards and gifts. It made her day very special.
Happy Birthday sweet Willow!