"Healthy and Strong"

Now that Riley is getting a bit older, one of the things that I am really enjoying is the opportunity I have to share some of the things I love with her. Not only do I get to spend more quality time with her, but it also provides a chance for me to teach her about those things I value. We've been talking a lot lately about what it means to be "Healthy and Strong", how important it is to live an active lifestyle, and how lucky we are to live in a place with such beautiful surroundings.
I got her out on snowshoes for the first time today, and the Girl took to it like a fish to water. Granted, we only tromped around our front yard for a while so she could get the feel of maneuvering her feet with big shoes attached, but she did great-fantastic balance and completely at ease right from the start. We have big plans to tackle the short hike in Memory Grove tomorrow afternoon and we're both excited to see how it goes.
I love being able to teach my daughter through my example to be active, and that living a "Healthy and Strong Life" is an important thing to strive for. It's fun for me to see her enjoy the outdoors and want to try something I love to do. Another thing I love about these photos is that I can see evidence of me here: ponytail, yoga pants, fleece and snowshoes.

Yep, she's my girl alright.

(Intermin) Word of the year for 2011

I've received a bunch of emails asking what my word for 2011 is going to be.

Um...yeah.

I have no idea yet.

I'm narrowing down a series of words, but I have not settled on any of them yet. I'll know the right one soon enough, but the right word hasn't found me yet. So in the interim, and because it's really fitting for today, the word I'm focusing on is 'CHILL'.

Great Salt Lake, New Year's Day 2011

Christmas Eve Happenings

Riley and I spent Christmas Eve-Eve and Christmas Eve in Idaho. It was a very quick trip, but it gave us the chance to enjoy some time with our family, and still make it back to Utah for Santa to find Riley in our own home.

Ambrie

Hallee

Riley

Lexi

Baby Karlee

Riley and I decided to take Hallee and Lexi out for breakfast on Christmas Eve. It was so much fun, and so entertaining! We will definitely be repeating that experience! Best breakfast dates ever!

After breakfast, Hallee and I headed out on a little aunt/niece outing. She and I like to drive around, doing whatever random thing we come up with (I love this girl!). This time, she manned the Ipod (Taylor Swift, anyone?) and I shot a few photos.

I'm digging how the white on white on white of the structures, the snow and the sky. This is how I imagine Idaho in the winter.

Then it was time to head back to Utah to await Santa's arrival. Of course, Riley opened the traditional Christmas pj's before bed.
Stockings were hung (sorta) and Riley's haul was set out for her to discover on Christmas morning.
Merry, merry!

Loving Utah!

Good day to be out in the snow, (semi)fresh air and with a good friend.

Getting ready for ski season

Because ski goggles and a sun-dress are always in style.