Oh what do we do in the winter-time?

This winter has been especially long. We long for spring and were excited that it hovered around 40 degrees today with sunshine aplenty. Taking advantage of the milder weather, we ventured out on a walk this fine President's Day. We took the usual route, saw the dogs in their big-fenced in yard and the horses, always eager for visitors. (note to self: do not wear a white coat when going to see horses. One of my sleeves is now green where the horse decided to sniff me with his rather dirty muzzle) Lily LOVES to be outside, and our 'quick' walk around the block turns into quite the long excursion. She finds joy in the very simple things and satisfies her curiosity by doing everything she can possibly think of. She knows what it means to figuratively 'smell the roses' (and how I wish it was warm enough to actually smell roses). Here's a little glimpse of our walk and the fun that can be had making 'polta dots' in the snow. (sorry it's sideways, I didn't realize you couldn't flip video clips like you can photos...you'll get the idea though)

And now you know why our little walks turn into rather long outings. And the thing is she just doesn't seem to get cold and will stay outside as long as we'll let her.

And when we're not so fortunate to get to play outside (which seems to be about 95% of the time during the winter), we burn off energy in other ways. Here's a little taste of what my life entails as a stay-at-home and often house-bound mom.

Bath Time: cute little bums

Coloring: Lily is such an enthusiastic colorer. She LOVES to color--especially with markers. It's usually something like this: I'll say, "will you write your name?" and she'll say "12-A-D-11-14-B-Lily Peedsen!" Already such an Einstein at 2 1/2! :o)

Eating: Lily, the particular eater, eating just the top, inside part of her toast, and Zoe, the moocher, waiting for a piece to fall.
Climbing: Zoe will get atop or go up anything she can--toilet paper, stairs, you name it.

More Eating: Cheesing and eating fish crackers on the go

Posing: Practicing her diva pose, Lily thanks her fans...

Movies and Naps: Watching movies and falling asleep in weird positions

Eating Again (and making demonic faces when the camera is pulled out)

New tricks: Finding new ways to carry around food--Hey, a mouth always makes for a good third hand! (if you haven't noticed, Zoe REALLY likes to eat)

Being the sweet babes they are: Sugar and spice....
Snuggles...and lots of hugs!