What's to do in Winter?

It's midwinter alright.  We've all got the chapped red cheeks and runny noses to prove it.  We're dreaming of warm breezes and aquamarine waters and sinking our toes into the sand (even Aiden is counting the days and hours til our annual trip to the keys), but have to settle for a two mile snowshoe across a frozen lake, an adventure nonetheless.  There was an island to explore, completely devoid of coconut palms and sea grapes, but it was still cool to explore.

Then inside for some football and snacks.  Haley is a little fiend for salt and vinegar chips, and now that she  can say "Go Giants" she's officially part of the family cheering squad.  Aiden loves to be contrary and root for whatever team his dad can't stand.  Andy's always told Aiden he has to make up his own mind about things and not follow the other lemmings off a cliff...I guess he asked for this, in a way.  It's funny to watch his face contort when Aiden says "Dad, I really love the Ravens! I hope they win the superbowl!" and then he composes himself and says "Buddy... it's a free country...you can love whatever teams you want."  So diplomatic.  Plus he's still got time to win over Little Doo.  

Haley's favorite new game is to get dressed for outside whenever the fancy strikes her, and in all kinds of creative arrangements.  Hat on feet, backwards jacket, one boot, mittens as socks, you name it.  Would you like to take your jacket off, Haley?  Nooooooooo!  Would you like help with that boot?  NOOOOOOO!  Okay, fine.  Suit yourself.  Literally.

 

  

Andy and I had a rare day off while the kids' school was open last week and we took the opportunity to clean out the garage attic and brew a new beer, a brown ale called Caribou Slobber.  It doesn't sound very appetizing but if it's potable it will at least make for interesting conversation.  It was about 3 degrees out while we were cleaning and sorting and brewing (all outside) so we huddled over the brew occasionally to keep our fingers working.  When we picked the kids up that afternoon I know we smelled strongly of hops and malt, but no one said anything.