2016 Momtrends Family Ski Guide

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WINTER 2016

SKI WEEKEND MUST-HAVES

SKI STYLE FOR MOMS & KIDS

OUR FAVORITE SKI RESORTS

Embrace winter! Don’t grumble about the falling temps, instead we invite you to join us on the slopes.

We’re going to tell you a secret...beaches are boring. Skiing is the most unplugged family fun you’ll find. Trust us, between the two of us we’ve gotten six kids up on skis and have logged many miles on chair lifts all in the name of good, olefashioned quality time.

Each year the ski industry struggles to grow the sport (we think because they don’t market to moms), but we can attest, there’s no better bang for your vacation buck than hitting the slopes and then heading back home for board games, puzzles and a big pasta dinner (wine for mom, please).

Hope to see you on the chair lift! #ThinkSnow

Kim-Marie & Nicole

Editor in Chief & Founder: Nicole Feliciano, Momtrends Media Co-Editor: Kim-Marie Evans, Luxury Travel Mom Marketing Manager: Brooke Stewart Contributing Editor: Catherine Murton Design & Layout: Kate Bayless

Our Favorite Resorts First-Timers 8 Luxury 9 Fun Off the Mountain 12 Budget Friendly 13 5 Hours from New York City 16 Powderhounds 17 Ski Restaurants 22 Ski Spas 23

Packing Essentials Snow Gear for Kids 4 Family Packing List 7 Ski Mom Style 15 Ski Mom Skin Secret 21 Beauty Essentials 28

Condo Must-Haves Recipe: Ski Mom Bloody Mary 25 Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stew 29 Weekend Menu Shopping List 31 Recipe: European-Style Hot Cocoa 32 Condo Games 33

Tips from the Pros Ski Moms Never Stop Having Fun 19 Rules of the Mountains 24 Ski Dads - Ryan Sutter 27 Ski Moms - Heidi Voelker 30

Win! #NoSickDaysSweepstakes 19 Ski Mom Survey Giveaway 26

Snowsuits For Kids

FOR BABY This Insulated Puff Snowsuit from Polarn O. Pyret will keep your baby warm in the coldest of weather. Lightweight and water-repellent, the snowsuit comes in four sizes for babies 0-6 months -- a cozy choice for when you need to take a newborn out in not-so-nice weather.

FOR TOTS Once baby is up and running, opt for a bib-style suit to keep the snow out. Look for suits like this Columbia Girls' Frosty Slope Set with a “grow with me” system that allows you let out hems and adjust the length as kids get older. Plus, these articulated knees are perfectly designed to keep kids moving..

FOR KIDS These Squall Bibs by Lands' End are built for all-day snow play.

The bibs are waterproof, windproof and designed with a doublelayer of extra-tough nylon on the knees and seat -- where kids need extra protection most. The legs extend an additional two inches to make these last for more than one year, and in addition to picking a size, you can also choose these bibs in Regular, Slim or Husky -- a great option for your hard-to-fit kid.

FOR TEENS

When it comes to teens, style matters. The Spyder Ambush Jacket for boys includes a removable hood, powder skirt, internal goggle holder, and data card pocket to keep his lift pass secure. For girls, go with the Obermeyer Aisha Jacket. It's warm and waterproof while still showing lots of style with a removable hood with faux fur trim and a must-have inner cell phone pocket with headphone cord router.

TEEN TREND Comic books aren’t just for little kids. Get ready to show the older kids what’s up with the varsity influenced boys’ Burton Marvel Game Day Jacket. The Room-To-Grow™ system in the sleeves will allow for multi-season use and the zippered handwarmer pockets provide secure places for phones and cash.

What To Pack 19

FAMILY SKI VACATION From the mountaintop to the condo hot tub, we've put together a ski vacation packing list to ensure each family member is warm, protected and ready for fun!

2 base layers for each child, bottom and top.

3 pairs of socks 1 top mid layer with quarter zip 1 bottom mid layer for extra cold days 1 fleece or ski sweater 1 pair of pants or overalls 1 jacket 2 pairs of ski gloves 2 hats 1 balaclava 2 turtles/neck warmers 2 pairs underwear per day of skiing 1 pair goggles 1 helmet 1 pair ski boots 1 pair winter boots 2 pairs fleece bottoms or sweats for lounging hand warmers and toe warmers lip balm sunscreen swim suit & flip flops (for aprés ski hot tub) sunglasses

List is per person. Click HERE for a printable version of this packing list.

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TOP PICK

PARK CITY, UT Not only does Deer Valley offer the “Best Snow on Earth”, it’s also one of the most beginner friendly resorts around. With 27% of the mountain rated green, plenty of slow skiing zones and a top notch ski school, this Utah resort is the perfect place to take up skiing.

Photo: Deer Valley Resort

Complimentary ski valet and parking shuttle The Veuve Clicquot yurt (easily reachable for beginners) Ski School for Adults with private lessons or group classes with a max of 4

Smugglers' Notch, VT No need to fly out west to learn to ski or ride, Smugglers Notch in Vermont is serious about teaching beginners.

Their First Timer program allows beginners one stop shopping. The low price of $99 includes equipment, a lift ticket and a 2-hour lesson.

Rated #1 Kid-Friendly Resort in the East by Ski Magazine 2017 Teen Alley is just for teens with ping-pong, pool & video games Charming walkable village with ice skating & tubing Photo: Smugglers Notch Resort

Big Sky, MT When you’re learning to ski, lots of space is key. Big Sky has half of a mountain dedicated to green ski trails so we are giving it the nod for beginners. Since the resort is made up of three mountains with over 5,800 skiable acres, there is still plenty of terrain for the more experienced skier to explore too.

Photo: Michel Tallichet

Dog sledding, sleigh rides & the longest zipline tour in the area Kids' program from 4-6PM so parents can enjoy aprés-ski With a mountain this big, lift lines are almost non-existent

Book your family trip at Ski.com or by calling 1-800-908-5000

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SUNDANCE, UT Much like its famous owner, Robert Redford, Sundance is at once unassuming, yet rugged -- the kind of rustic luxury that is a rare find. The mountain itself feels like a private retreat. The art studio on property offers guests the chance to try their hand at pottery, glass making & more.

Lodging guests at Sundance Mountain Resort receive daily complimentary Sundance yoga, meditation classes & nature walks.

PICK

Photo: Sundance

Sitting area at the famed Tree Room Restaurant has books & décor from Redford’s personal collection Nachos at the top of the mountain in the Bearclaw Cabin with 360 degree views There’s always a chance you might run into “Bob” (as he’s known on the property)

Stowe, VT Stowe Mountain has been ranked the #1 Resort in the Eastern U.S. by both SKI Magazine and Skiing Magazine.

Stowe boasts the highest elevation in Vermont and also the most luxurious hotel. The 312 room Stowe Mountain Lodge is ski in/ski out, features a 21,000 square foot spa and giant outdoor pool with mountain views.

Real Kids Spa treatments like manis, facials & a Chillax lounge Indoor entrance to the outdoor pool, even adults can’t resist Photo: Smugglers' Notch Resort

Beaver Creek, CO

Photo: Beaver Creek

Everything about this Colorado ski destination screams luxury. Even the bunny hill has a gondola to ferry tiny tots back to the top protected from the wind and cold.

The Osprey is the closest hotel to a chairlift in North America and sits just steps from Beaver Creek’s thrilling mountain resort & charming pedestrian village. Or book a room at the Westin Beaver Creek and get a lift to the top on the private Gondola. You can join the mountain's White Carpet Club for extra luxury perks.

White Glove First Tracks lets you book a morning on the mountain before the public Winter wine excursions – think snowshoe tour with wine!

Book your family trip at Ski.com or by calling 1-800-908-5000

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PARK CITY, UT

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Park City is the rare ski town that offers access to 3 mountains from one little town. Main Street is home to everything from cowboy boot shopping to a mix of restaurants that range from a whiskey distillery to authentic southwestern fare. What makes it our pick for family fun is nearby Jupiter Bowl (disco, bowling and food), tubing at Gorgoza Park & Utah Olympic Park.

Photo: Visit Park City

Only place in the US that offers a true Olympic length bobsled ride to the public Fireside Dining at Deer Valley is four courses from four stone fireplaces Night tubing at Gorgoza Park – and they let you link tubes!

Steamboat, CO Though Steamboat Springs coined the term “champagne powder,” this Colorado resort offers so much more than just steeps & deeps. This charming cowboy is far enough from the Denver crowds to feel like a real Western escape. Enjoy the view from a scenic gondola ride or book a snowshoe photography tour.

Photo: Larry Pierce/Steamboat Ski Resort

Horsedrawn sleighs and winter horseback rides Sunset Happy Hour on the gondola Take a dip in the natural thermal hot springs at Strawberry Park or Old Town Natural Hot Springs

Copper Mountain, CO You don’t even need snow to practice your freestyle moves thanks to Woodward Copper. This action sports training ground is for beginners who want to learn to ride & for advanced athletes who want to perfect their tricks. Woodward's Barn houses 5 Olympic trampolines and 1 super tramp. Wander the pedestrian only village or spend the day with White Mountain Tours exploring high mountain terrain by snowmobile.

Photo: Copper Mountain

Just 75 min. from Denver & easier to reach than other CO resorts Woodward's Super Tramp is open to the public Top of the Rockies Zip Line is a snowy thrill ride - no skis needed

Book your family trip at Ski.com or by calling 1-800-908-5000

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GEORGETOWN, CO Loveland is Colorado’s true winter wonderland. Just 53 miles west of Denver, Loveland boasts 1,800 acres of remarkable terrain and FREE snowcat skiing along the Continental Divide. The $109 day-tripper package includes a full day lift ticket, ski or board rental, and all ski clothing necessary for a fab day on the slopes.

Photo: Loveland

It’s a hidden gem, most skiers drive right by on I-70 never realizing how big & affordable it is Beginners can buy a $25 lift ticket with access to the learning slopes We repeat FREE snowcat skiing!

Solitude, UT Just 30 minutes from Salt Lake City airport, Solitude offers what we call “high value budget” options. Almost all of the accommodations are three star, Creekside and the Inn at Solitude are ski in/ski out and the snow is billed as the “Best Snow on Earth”. Both properties provide relaxing amenities like onsite full-service spas, outdoor hot tubs and convenient onsite restaurants.

Photo: Solitude Resort

Fly in the morning, ski in the afternoon. Yes please!

Lives up to its name with miles of cross-country and snow shoeing trails to escape the crowds Laid back vibe is the perfect antidote to the more posh resorts

Fayston, VT Mad River Glen in Fayston, Vermont is known for its iconic slogan: “Ski It If You Can.” You won’t find fast chairlifts, ski butlers or a heavily logo-ed crowd here. You will find one of only two single-chair lifts in the country, and this not-for-profit mountain keeps skiing affordable.

P.S. Mad River is a ski-only resort; no snowboards allowed.

Photo: Jeb Wallace-Brodeur

Riding a single chair lift should be on every skier’s bucket list You can ski 2,000 vertical feet from just one lift It’s the only ski resort on the National Registry of Historic Places

Book your family trip at Ski.com or by calling 1-800-908-5000

Ski Moms know how to combine fashion and function. SKEA offers the tech fabrics you need to stay warm and the style you need to feel good.

The Didi Jacket flatters every women's body shape and it’s sporty to elegant. The iridescent Abalone collection means your kids can spot you on the mountain and so will everyone else.

Pair it with the SKEA Cargo Pant. Finding flattering ski pants…well, it’s a tall order. Trust us, these cargo ski pants are awesome — the key is a belt-style waist adjuster.

Add in the Avia base layer in abalone for a fun way to brighten up any color ski outfit — it looks great for après ski too. Or try the Lech Powerstretch mid-layer in blue chrome — it is made out of a fabulous “Powerstrech Windstopper” fabric with an insulated front overlay for keeping your core warm.

Shop the entire SKEA Women's ski collection HERE.

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LAKE PLACID, NY This famed mountain played host to the Olympics in both 1932 & in 1980. But it’s not just the epic 3,430 vertical drop that draws skiers, Whiteface Resort has Kids Kampus, offering a mini mountain complete with its own lifts, rental shop, lodge & family Snowsports School.

Olympic fans & thrill seekers can catch a practice or competition at the ski jumping facility or watch bobsledding or luge.

Photo: ORDA/Dave Schmidt

Whiteface Lodge was envisioned as a throwback to the Adirondack Great Camps of yore Always wanted to be a biathlete? You can take a lesson & try your hand at the Olympic Village You don’t need to ski to enjoy the views with the Cloudsplitter Gondola

Ludlow, VT This Vermont resort has something for everyone: 32% of the terrain is beginner, boarders will love the 450 foot long superpipe & the relatively new Jackson Gore base is serious luxury. Skiers love the 2,200 foot vertical drop (the steepest in Southern New England) & everyone loves the variety of activities at Okemo. There is a mountain coaster, ice house skating rink (with real ice walls), snowtubing, kids snowmobile tours & more.

Photo: Okemo Resort

The Jackson Gore Village is slopeside and great for kids with a huge recreation pool complex Kids Night Out on Saturdays gives parents a night out

West Dover, VT

Photo: Mount Snow

Mount Snow in the Green Mountain Nat'l Forest is the closest Vermont resort to all metropolitan hubs. Without traffic, you can make it from NYC in just over 3.5 hrs.

The mountain is massive with 589 skiable acres & they have the ability to make snow on 80% of the mountain.

They are so confident they offer a “Snow Guarantee” you can ski for an hour and if you don’t like the snow, get your money back. Mount Snow is also home to the largest freestyle terrain park on the East Coast.

The Waffle Cabin at the base is both breakfast & bribe Six-person covered lift offers a warm ride to the top Book your family trip at Ski.com or by calling 1-800-908-5000

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ALTA, UT The slogan “Alta is for Skiers” has a double meaning - snowboarders are not welcome and the slopes are best enjoyed by serious skiers. Alta averages about 560" of fluffy, Salt Lake effect snow a year. The resort has 116 trails spread over 2,200 skiable acres. The no-frills lodges all offer breakfast & dinner included in the price & slopeside access. If you have a boarder in the family they can ride next door at Snowbird.

PICK

Photo:: Alta

Aprés-ski at the Alta Peruvian Lodge (known as P Dog) featuring free appetizers and popcorn They coined the term "Sitzmark", the imprint you make when you fall

Kelowna, BC, Canada This Canadian resort boasts “champagne powder” & delivers. They get 25 ft. of snowfall annually and are proud of the fact that they don’t need to make snow.

Located in the Okanagan Valley, Big White is blessed with dry powder, sunny weather & mild temperatures.

The deep powder bowls will fool skiers accustomed to the heavy powder of the West - this super light powder makes every skier look like they’re in a Warren Miller flick.

Photo: Big White Ski Resort Ltd

The entire village is ski in/ski out - no cars are allowed.

A 60-foot ice climbing tower is open to the public.

Order a boozy GunBarrel coffee & the alcohol comes flaming down the barrel of a shotgun straight to your glass

Teton Village, WY Jackson Hole wouldn’t even need a ski mountain to be a world-class destination. Luckily for skiers & riders, the powder there is epic. Catch the famed “Big Red” tram up to the 10,450 ft. summit in just 10 minutes. From the top, skiers & riders are able to access 4,139 vertical feet of continuous fall-line skiing & riding. Join a snow safari in the hopes of spotting moose or bald eagles or rent a fat bike and take on the mountain with wheels instead of skis.

Photo: Sonnenalp

The plush Four Seasons is home to many Nordic activities Million Dollar Cowboy Bar has free dance lessons on Thursdays

Book your family trip at Ski.com or by calling 1-800-908-5000

W

e get it -- planning, packing and going on a family ski vacation can feel like a lot of work. Sometimes we need a vacation after our vacation! But here's what we ski moms know -- when we look beyond the delayed flights, long lift lines and tears over frozen toes, family ski vacations are all about having fun and creating life-long memories with our kids. Here are a few of our tips & tricks to ensure we're getting the most our of our ski vacations -- even when everything doesn't go according to plan.

Keep small treats like mints, gum or hard candies in your pocket for those midmountain breakdowns or when your kid needs motivation to do one more run.

Pack extra heat packets in your jacket to help thaw cold hands & frozen toes.

Play a game! Deal with long lift lines by playing I Spy or Chopsticks.

Don't let sniffles take away from your snow fun. Stock up on DayQuil Cold & Flu Relief Liquid and LiquiCaps to ensure you're always up for another run.

Now through the end of January, share photos of your unmissable moments using #NoSickDaysSweepstakes on Instagram or Twitter for a chance to score a Canon EOS Rebel T5 & a Vicks Prize Pack!

Click HERE for the official rules

Every family needs a spot that brings them together.

For us, home is in the mountains. We may live day-to-day in the city, but this is where we can really exhale. We are the best versions of ourselves in the now. In Vail, we make our home Sonnenalp--one of the warmest, most rejuvenating hotels I have experienced. Travelers know home isn't a place, it's a feeling. Where does your family "feel" home?

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A family winter getaway is always on the itinerary for seasoned ski moms. While packing everyone’s favorite ski essentials can get tight and tricky, we understand the need for solutions that work for the whole family. And if there's one thing we must do before sending our families out into the freezing cold to hit the slopes, it's layer-up!

And we’re not just talking long johns, coats, scarves and hats! You can’t forget the most important layer – our skin! As the first layer of defense, moisturization is the (lift) ticket for keeping your ski bunnies’ skin healthy.

From your little ones to your teens, spouses to parents, experienced ski moms know exactly the gear to pack to save the entire family from the woes of dry, winter skin.

We load up on the Lubriderm Advanced Therapy Lotion beneath our base layer in the AM or after a soak in the Jacuzzi and reapply when the weather gets tougher than expected.It only takes seconds to apply, but holy moly, will you be glad you did!

For a lotion that works for the entire family, ski moms in the know choose Lubriderm, available at Walgreens.

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SOLITUDE MOUNTAIN RESORT, UT Grab a lantern, your snowshoes & a backpack full of wine (the yurt is BYOB), and venture about a half mile into the forest near Solitude Village for an unforgettable meal in a Mongolian yurt. The chef will prepare four gourmet courses over a wood-fired stove for no more than 24 guests per night. There is no menu--the pre fixed dinner might be lobster and asparagus crepes, grilled lamb or fresh trout.

PICK

Photo:: Solitude

The half mile hike back out burns off triple cream brie and other sins You can bring as much of your own wine as you choose, but no beer or liquor is allowed by law

Northstar California Resort, CA Chef-skier Traci Des Jardins is behind Manzanita at the Ritz in Lake Tahoe at the Northstar Resort. You might recognize her name from her appearances on both Iron Chef and Top Chef. She has also won a James Beard Award for her San Francisco eatery Jardineire. There's a chef's table for eight, made out of a single tree, next to the kitchen for the serious foodies.

Photo: Manzanita

An impressive 1,400-bottle wine list with plenty of CA Cabs The restaurant (and hotel) is mid-mountain so the spectacular views match the cuisine An impressive kids menu too

Sonnenalp, CO Grab a seat in the sunny solarium overlooking the heated outdoor pool and the watch the snow gently fall on Gore Creek as you power up for a day on Vail’s slopes. From the tastiest German breads to perfectly prepared eggs to order, this breakfast is just what you need to prep for the powder.

Photo: Sonnenalp

The flakiest croissants in Colorado Whipped cream on top of the most delectable hot chocolate Raspberry blintzes—try to find those on the mountain!

Book your family trip at Ski.com or by calling 1-800-908-5000

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TOP PICK

MONT TREMBLANT Set on the shores of the Diable River, Scandinave Spa Mont-Tremblant offers the authentic Scandinavian baths and the thousand year old tradition of using water to heal. Try the cycle of hot baths, refreshing rinses and rest. Then melt away with a relaxing massage while breathing in the invigorating country air.

Photo: Mont Tremblant

They have a “zone of silence” – no chit chat, no cell phones, just pure quiet The bold can take their cold plunge to extremes by dipping in the frozen Diable River Use of the baths is only $48 (Momtrends swears by them!)

Stowe, VT This hidden gem is the perfect way to spend some après ski time or book an entire spa day while the kids are in ski school. The unassuming hotel 15 minutes from Stowe Mountain is home to a tremendous spa. Relax under the 12-foot high massaging waterfall in the Aqua Solarium and then dip in the Hungarian Mineral Soaking Pool, a therapeutic European-style mineral soaking pool featuring mineral salts from Hungary.

Photo: Stoweflake

After a few minutes under the waterfall you don’t even feel like you need a massage The hotel is not on the mountain but rather in the charming town of Stowe

St. Regis, Aspen, CO

Photo: St. Regis

Book your family trip at Ski.com

Voted #1 Spa in the world by Travel & Leisure magazine, this posh retreat is just what you need after a long day on the slopes. Be sure to arrive early to enjoy the extensive amenities here: a co-ed confluence waterfall pool (bring a bathing suit), plus a soothing steam cave with eucalyptus, hot soaking tub & cool plunge pool. Afterward, snuggle under a chenille throw on a chaise in a dimly lit room, where you can breathe pure oxygen through a cannula while sipping bubbly.

Champagne & a massage. Champagne & oxygen.

Champagne & a blanket. Need we go on?

Rules of the Mountain Just like the road, the slopes have rules. Everyone knows to drive on the right and signal when turning, but what are the rules when skiing? We asked Ski Utah’s Paul Marshall for a tutorial.

“Skiing is the best activity in the world and leaves lasting memories, all parents should teach their children these important rules when learning to ski or ride.”

1. Always wear safety equipment. Helmets are cool!

2. Prior to using the lift, have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.

3. Always stay in control when skiing or riding all terrain.

4. People ahead of you have the right of way.

5. Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.

6. Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.

7. Always look uphill when trails are merging.

Our Bloody Mary is basically a super healthy salad, with a little vodka, which is a potato, so really, this is a meal. You can find all of the ingredients at the grocery store when you are loading up on snacks for the kids.

INGREDIENTS Olives, any kind (try to avoid the ones with pits) Celery Asparagus Cooked shrimp Wood skewers Vodka - we like ours spicy Bloody Mary Mix - even V8 will do in a pinch DIRECTIONS 1. Fill glass with ice.

2. Skewer all your veggies and shrimp.

3. Pour vodka shot.

4. Add Bloody Mary mix or V8 Juice.

5. Put skewer in upside down so shrimp & olives soak.

Just a salad you can drink!

YOUR PERFECT SNOW DAY

Calling all ski moms! We want to know why you ski and where you to love go, and what resorts are on your downhill wishlist so we can create customized information just for you.

Enter our Ski Survey from now until January 15th for a chance to win a $500 American Express gift card.

One entry per email. No purchase necessary. Must be US resident and 18 or over to win.

RYAN SUTTER on

Our kids started skiing at a young age. Both were just over two years old when they first donned a set of skis and bravely took to the slopes, albeit the gentle slopes, of Arrowhead Mountain. Though Max, our oldest, learned a year earlier than Blakesley, we followed the same general strategic plan for both.

The intent was simply prevention of anything that might permanently scar, scare or otherwise discourage them from a future of on-hill skiing pleasure. In other words, it had to be fun!

Photo: Vail Resorts

Though they took place a year apart, Max and Blakesley’s first ski days followed essentially the same template. Carefully packaged from head to toe in puffy outfits designed for equal parts warmth and protection, the kids hung on as I carried them up a gentle slope to their place of eventual departure. Once there, I uttered some final quiet words of encouragement, took a deep breath, smiled, pointed their skis downhill and let them go. With wing-like arms straight out to the side, they glided smoothly to a stop at the base of the hill, mom fashionably waiting with open arms to congratulate them. They could neither turn nor stop but had no concept that either was important. With each hike back up and return trip down, they gained confidence and comfort. Their smiles were contagious. We were having fun!

"We encourage them, have fun with them and then - just like at the top of that gentle slope - we let them go."

That first day with Max was 7 seasons ago. Since then, Trista and I continue to watch as both he and Blakesley develop into accomplished young skiers.

They have grown from their inaugural experiences and, with the help of their Beaver Creek Ski School instructors, have become not only great skiers, but also great kids. Through every phase, Trista and I have learned that our role as parents is to supply meaningful introductions and life experiences but not to micro manage the process. It is our goal to provide a positive environment from which our kids can grow through experience. We encourage them, have fun with them and then - just like at the top of that gentle slope - we let them go. In skiing, we found a metaphor that would help define our parenting philosophy. Hot chocolate helps too.

Click HERE to read more from Ryan Sutter on his blog The Hero's Handbook.

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beauty must-haves for the mountain

Who wants to cook after a long day on the slopes?

You can enjoy a delicious warm dinner like this Daube Provencale thanks to zen of slow cooking Slow Cooker Spice Blends. Prep the ingredients in the morning before you hit the snow and when you return, dinner will be done.

2.5 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1" cubes 2 tbsp flour 1 tsp salt 3 tbsp olive oil 2 slices bacon, cut into 1" cubes 1 medium onion, diced

1 large carrot, diced 1 celery rib, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp tomato paste 1 Daube Provencale blend 2 cups red wine + 1/2 cup water

1. Toss beef in flour and salt to coat.

2. Heat oil in skillet on medium: brown the beef.

3. In same skillet, sauce bacon, onion, carrot, celery and garlic for 2 mins; add to slow cooker.

4. Stir in tomato paste.

5. Sprinkle in the Daube Provencale blend; add red wine and water.

6. Stir, cover and cook on LOW 7-8 hours or HIGH 3-4 hours. Serve over wide egg noodles with a side of buttered haricots vests.

Wine tip: Pair with a California Cabernet or Bordeaux.

HEIDI VOELKER on

We sat down with 3-time Olympian and mother of two, Heidi Voelker to get her advice on being a Ski Mom. SkiMoms: As the youngest child in a skiing family, did anyone teach you to ski at 2 or did they just put you on skis?

Photo: Deer Valley Heidi: As the youngest of 4, I followed my older siblings footsteps. My mom always told me, "Keep up or stay home."

SkiMoms: What did your mom do to make family ski trips work for your family?

Heidi: My mom was the matriarch of the family. She gave up her time to stay in the lodges and made sure all 5 of us (4 kids and my father) we were warm, fed and organized.

SkiMoms: How old were your children when you first put them on skis?

Heidi: My kids were younger than me, 18 months! And it was exactly that, I put them on skis on Wide West at Deer Valley to get them used to coordination and balance as an introduction. And then we got hot chocolates at the lodge.

SkiMoms: What’s your best advice for moms out there that have never skied but want to learn?

Heidi: Realize your children will probably already be better than you. Take a half day lesson (or a couple), then go enjoy the outdoors and being with your family.

Want to ski with Heidi? Call 435-649-5766 or email skiwithchamps@deervalley.com

Getting out of town for a weekend in the snow? Use this handy shopping list to make healthy condo meals a breeze.

Oatmeal Fish tacos with guacamole French toast Pasta with marinara and broccoli Milk Eggs Shredded cheese French bread Avocados Apples Cheddar cheese Bottled water Raisins Almond butter Steel cut oatmeal Brown sugar Beer Wine

Pasta Tomato sauce Quesadillas Tomatoes Trail mix Coffee Tea Broccoli Ziploc bags & plastic containers Turkey bacon Oil Vinegar Tortilla chips Italian spice

Package clean greens Cilantro Onions Tomatoes Bananas Clementines Blueberries Microwave popcorn Mahi-mahi or other fish for tacos

3/4 cup milk 1.5 cups heavy cream 1 large HERSHEY'S Dark Chocolate Bar (4.25 oz) vanilla - 1 tsp spices as desired: nutmeg, cinnamon, cayenne etc salt - dash

1. Chop your HERSHEY'S Dark Chocolate Bar into small shavings.

2. In a saucepan over medium-low, heat your milk and chocolate pieces. *Do not boil* 3. Whisk your heavy cream (or use a stand mixer) until thickened slightly.

4. Add in your vanilla, salt and spices to your chocolate mixture.

5. Whisk the thickened cream into your chocolate mixture. (Leaving a little for topping) Heat through *Do not boil* 6. Ladle into mugs and enjoy!

Family time doesn’t just happen on the mountain -- it also happens after the ski day.

Bring the family around a classic board game like one of these top picks.

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Little kids can whoop the adults in this matching game

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A little math and whole lotta luck in this easy-to-pack dice game

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Classic stacking game with a colorful twist

This family favorite is perfect for long dinners, plane delays & lazy afternoons.

A fun family challenge for tweens & teens

Nothing beats snuggle time while puzzling with a cup of hot cocoa.