The cousins can't wait to meet Arlo!

The cousins had a great weekend together. There was a fire in the snow fort and hockey in the afternoon.  Emma is wearing her mask that we picked up in New Orleans.  Ambrose is wearing a mask and cape from Aunty T. Can't wait for a picture with all three monkeys.

 I imagine Arlo in a classic mexican wrestling mask. 

Pictures of my sisters new baby boy to follow.

Amboise et Mineu

"house jacket"

Ambrose LOVES the snow!

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Ambrose's first time sledding (Maplelag post continued)

Maplelag, MN

First time on x-c skiis!

Family road trip to cross country ski all-inclusive resort Maplelag in Minnesota, about a 5 hour drive. We joined Renee, Dan and baby Neva, Andrew, Chris and Dana.
It was a weekend of firsts for Ambrose: first time on x-c skis and the first time sledding. Videos to follow.

Enjoying the sun dogs

Ambrose exploring the upstairs

Mama and Ambrose attempting skiing together, albeit for a very short time.

On the way to dinner

NOLA

Dave and I snuck a quick vacation at the beginning of January. I went to New Orleans for an institute for work and Dave joined me for three nights. We had a great time marvelling at the architecture and history of the French Quarter, the sprawling mansions in the Garden District and the cool vibe of Oak Street home to the infamous Maple Leaf (our intensions was to see the Rebirth Blues Band but we were exhausted and missing our baby by the time the third night rolled around).

We stayed at the Hotel Richelieu in the French Quarter. 

The visit would not be complete without a visit to the iconic Cafe Du Monde for a cup of chicory coffee and beignets (french doughnuts). Yum

We were incredulous about the lax liquour laws in thsi city. You can walk around with open alcohol so as long as it is in a plastic cup or can: not glass bottles. Here, the pub we were at provided us with plastic cups to take our beer to go! Dave was quite pleased.

we were in love with the gas lanterns

The food was amazing. I certainly had my fill of fried oysters, here served along side my eggs benny.

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The French constructed their homes such that the front of the homes faces inward , apparently it was to ensure they they would never need to open their front door to an Englishman. Un-welcomed guests were greeted at the back of the house. Here you can see what promises to be an sanctuary, a private garden within the courtyard.

This historical Preservation Hall

A mansion in the Garden District

Who knew? 

The city was getting ready for Mardi Gras