Winter Break

Have to admit. I'm totally lovin these 2 week school breaks every 6 weeks. The girls are definitely ready for a little R&R by then and although it admittedly butts into my work routine a bit, it's so much fun to have the extra time with the girls. Thought I'd share some of our day-adventures over the last break (2/20-3/3).

Since Teah decided not to continue the Wednesday afternoon ski trips (Lola absolutely adores it) we told her that she had to use the time to learn something else. So, she decided to finally learn how to ride a bike! I know I'm bragging a bit here but so proud that after only 2 afternoon lessons with Papa she's riding totally on her own! I'm sure it's entirely Papa's extra-ordinary teaching ability.  ;-)
So, we decided to put her new bike riding skills to the test and took a little bike ride in the woods. So fun!

We also finally got over to visit Therese. We've been meaning to for the last 6 months. She's always a stop in years past when we've visited France. She's the oldest of three sisters who are cousins of Marc's Dad. She is absolutely amazing! Must be the clean French Alps air. She's 95 and as feisty as ever. Seriously!! She lives on her own in a beautiful apartment in downtown Thonon. She drinks, she smokes, and gets to the local casino to gamble at least twice a week. And on top of all of that, she's hilarious! Cussing up a storm and getting into all kinds of gossiping trouble. A total delight!

I mean seriously; does she look 95?!?!

And what Winter Break would be complete without some ski time. We headed up to Morzine again for some more ski adventures and had the added bonus of spending the night up there in Marc's brother's chalet. So fun! Oh and did I mention?! This was Marc's first time back on skis in 17 years!! Just like riding a bike.  ;)

Learning how to control her speed!  ;-)

Finally Lola got to do some real slopes with Papa and Tonton.

Relaxing back at the chalet.

Plus a little ice skating fun in town with cousin Mila.

We rounded out the break with a couple play dates, a visit to meet a friend's new puppy (so adorable!) plus some rock gathering at the lake.

Spending some time at the pool with new friends.

And Skyping back home with old friends. I love that they draw together over Skype. So sweet! 

Showing off her collection.

Teah and I working REALLY hard helping Lola!  ;-)

Reading in the sun! Who doesn't love that?

Teah claims she's "reading" in her secret language, which miraculously allows her to zoom through chapter books. Ha!! 

All in all, a relaxing and fun break! This week, the girls headed back to school. Only a bit reluctantly. And already looking forward to the 2-week Spring break in April when Grandma and Grandpa come to visit!!