The Winter That Would Not End

This year the winter weather would just not end!  Springfield had the second snowiest winter of all time, and one of the coldest winters on record with wind chill temperatures of -30* on more than one night!  This meant many days off of school, cabin fever, and taking advantage of the above 0* days when they happened.  The following pictures are what we have been doing since Christmas.

There are a few good sledding hills in Springfield.  The kids most enjoyed the hill at Pasfield Park this year.

Ethan attempting ice skating with his friend Simon.

The cold temperatures did mean that my parent's pond froze solid for the first time in many winters.  This allowed the kids to walk on the pond for their first time ever.  The kids loved playing hockey and exploring the ice.  These pictures were actually taken during a warm stretch this winter, so the ice was beginning to melt, which made for a very slushy experience that did not allow for ice skating.

Ice and snow days are beautiful when you do not have to drive in them!

Our traditional Valentine's Day supper - make your own pizzas and ice cream sundaes.

The winter did not stop the kids from playing sports - basketball for Ethan, volleyball for Olivia, and indoor soccer for both.

The girls from Olivia's class were featured singers in the grades 4/5 music program.

Ethan and his best buddy, BumBum Rhino.  This stuffed animal has been at Ethan's side for the past 5 years.

Olivia and her cat Enid.  Enid has slept with Olivia every night since Olivia was 1 1/2 - Enid would even sleep in Olivia's crib.

Family night selfie!

In early March Joe and I were lucky enough to go to Vegas for 5 days with no kids.

Waiting for the Springfield St. Patrick's Day parade (which lasted over 2 hours!).

Ethan's toothless grin.  I love it when both top teeth are lost at the same time.  Ethan's came out within days of each other, and he has 3 more very loose teeth.  He is hoping they grow in before corn on the cob season!