Dominating Vail

We had a fun weekend in Vail with the Colorado and Illinois Madden clan.  Kathy and Jack flew in for their annual Vail trip and although a snowstorm on the day they were supposed to arrive postponed their trip by one day, they made it in safely and we headed up the hill for a weekend of fun.  Babcia, Grandpa, Daniel and Isabella joined us.  The boys loved riding the gondola and Liam dominated the bunny hill on his first day skiing.  The other adults graciously offered to watch the boys so mom and dad got a ski day in too. What a treat!  Thanks for the visit, Kathy and Jack! It was great to see you. We love you!

We took a gondola trip up to Adventure Ridge, where we participated in the adventures of... drinking hot chocolate, watching snowplows, and witnessing another beautiful Vail sunset.

Dad gives Liam a lift so he can scope out the terrain for the following day on the slopes.

Group photo.  Liam still has his eye on the challenge ahead.

On top of Vail mountain! Racing toward a sunset.

This is what we called decked in blue. He he.

Family picture! Team blue on the left! Team Christmas on the right!

Daddy gives the blue marshmallow a snuggle.

Off to discuss the meaning of life...

Another group pic! Nice background :)

Blue-eyed boys!

Dec and Grandpa have a contest to see who can expose less of his body to the elements.

Bedtime! Story time with Uncle Jack.

Cue the Rocky theme.  It's on. First day of skiing, here we come.

Does this kid look ready or what? Discussing his course with his sensei.

 

The cheering gallery.

Forget Aladdin, or Steppenwolf for that matter. This is the real magic carpet ride.

Locked and loaded.

Away we go!

The moral support team decided he needed some attention from Isabella.

Mom's turn trying out the backpack.

Looking like a pro.

Sensei and student posing with Aunt Kathy.

 

Videos of Liam's first day on the slopes...

The first trip down the slopes was documented, but Mom should never be allowed to record video again. This is terrible. Sorry.

 

With Dad on the camera, a much steadier view.