Karlito Ski Day #6

It's hard to believe this is the 6th Karlito Ski Day.  I've been without my dear grandpa for 5 years.  As painful as it is to have him gone, this annual celebration makes me feel like he's still close by.  Hank and Sam didn't want to ski, so Randy and I took Max.  It was so fun to give Max our undivided attention for a change.  As you can see from this picture, we've had a pretty weak snow year.  I've never seen the conditions so dismal at Sundance.  We didn't let that stop us from having a great day.

Grandma Jackie hasn't made it up to the slopes all year.  I'm so glad she got to see Mino in action.

After our first run, Max asked me if Riley and Larry could help him learn how to ski better.   I love that Max is so teachable.  He really listens to instruction and really wants to learn.  I knew he was in good hands with Riley.

I witnessed a little Karlito Day magic.  Grandpa would be so proud.  It only took a couple runs with Riley before Max was making awesome turns and skiing with more control.

All his hard work earned him a gigantic cookie with dad.

Randy and I very rarely get to spend an entire day with just one of our kids.  It was such a treat to have Max with us.

He's such a fun, easy going, energetic kid.  His one liners are priceless.

I failed to get a big group shot this year.  Here are some of the people in attendance.  Randy, Max, Phil, Ryan, Becky, mom, and me (taking the picture).  Hayley, Riley, Logan, Wyatt, Grant, Monet, Lucca and Larry also skiied with us all day.  I don't get to spend that much time with my cousins anymore but the memories come flooding in when we are skiing at Sundance.  We had so many good times together with grandpa when we were kids.  It was so fun to reminise on the lift.

Hank and Sam came up to the tailgate party later with my dad.  Sam found a buddy right away.

Here's the next generation of skiers!

Grandpa's presence could be felt by everyone as we continue the traditions he started.  I miss him every day but I'll never forget the things he taught me.  Spending quality time with the family is the most important thing you can do.  I hope I'm making you proud gramps, wherever you are.