Thomas chose the warmth of the lodge and a good nap while Mike and Liz treated themselves to an afternoon on the slopes. We realized that not all black diamonds are created equal. We felt like rock stars breezing down the double blacks—the same rating at Alta would have kicked our quads and cans.

Ella Sophia had her first go at skiing. She impressed us with her determination and love of this new challenge. Her ski instructor wrote, “Ella Sophia improved (the teacher thought she’d skied before) tremendously today. By the end of the day she was making great turns and was able to stop at the bottom. She walks exceptionally well in in her skis and was a joy to teach.”

Stewart had Mike and Liz pushing themselves in the race to be first down the mountain. Stewart’s skiing took off this year with the after school ski program through Newton Parks and Recreation. He can’t wait for next season.