One of the most heartwarming moments was watching my son, just six years old, tackle snowboarding for the first time. His fearless energy left me in awe. He’s just like his mama—a determined Leo, ready to take on the world!

Without hesitation, he strapped into his snowboard and, after only a basic lesson, joined the adults at the top of the mountain. I hadn’t snowboarded since college, so while I was excited, I’ll admit I was a little nervous about how rusty I might be!

Once at the top, my son confidently zoomed down the slopes while I followed, a bit slower, trying to get my groove back. Thankfully, I had one of my best friends coaching me from behind, offering tips and encouragement. 

By the time I reached the bottom, I could hear my son shouting, "Come on, Mommy, you can do it!" His enthusiasm gave me the final push to keep going, even through the many tumbles. 

It was  a cute reminder that, sometimes, our kids end up being the ones cheering us on.

While my son was busy conquering the mountain, my five-year-old daughter was learning to ski on the bunny slopes—thanks to the help of my friend’s daughter, who’s already a pro! Watching them together was pure magic. My friend’s daughter took it upon herself to teach my little snow bunny the classic pizza slice and french fry techniques.

For those new to skiing:

* Pizza slice: Point the tips of your skis toward each other to form a V-shape (or pizza slice) to slow down. The more you angle your skis inward, the slower you’ll go.

* French fries: Keep your skis parallel (like french fries) to go faster.

* Hands on knees: A great tip to stay balanced and centered over your skis.

* Fun tip: Play a game of "red light, green light" to help kids learn how to stop and go while skiing.

Watching my daughter laugh and learn from someone just a few years older made my heart full. Moments like these—where girls empower and support each other with joy and curiosity—are the kind I live for.

There’s something special about a ski trip—it’s physically exhausting but emotionally and spiritually healing. Spending time with one of my closest friends from high school while our families bonded over snowy adventures was such a blessing. We reminisced, laughed, and made new memories while our kids formed their own bonds.

It’s in moments like these that I’m reminded of the beauty of rewriting your own story. Adventures I might have missed growing up are now the experiences I get to create for my children. 

As they grow, I hope they’ll carry these memories with them, perhaps sharing the same joy and laughter with their own families one day.

Whether you're hitting the slopes for the first time or planning a return to the mountains, here are some helpful tips we learned during our time in Park City:

1. Book Lessons ASAP – If you plan to take snowboarding or skiing lessons, book them in advance! Classes fill up fast, and if you wait until you arrive, you may find there’s no space left.

2. Buy Economy-Size Hand Warmers – Your fingers will freeze the moment you take off your gloves, so having hand warmers is a must. Buy in bulk because you’ll want them in your pockets and gloves at all times!

3. Bring Extra Gloves – Trust me on this one. Gloves tend to get lost easily on the slopes. And if you have to buy a pair up there, expect to pay close to $100. Save yourself the hassle and bring extras for everyone in the family.

4. Leggings Under Snow Pants – This is a game-changer! Layer up with leggings underneath your snow pants to stay warm and comfortable, especially if you’re like me and prefer onesies to avoid snow getting inside your clothes.

5. Prepare Your Endurance and Strength – If you’re not already working out, start now! The snow will take a toll on your body, and you’ll be out of breath after just a few runs. Focus on building leg strength and endurance to keep up with the snow’s demands.

6. The Long Airport Walk – Salt Lake City Airport isn’t small. Prepare yourself (and the kids) for a long walk—it can feel like a mile just getting to your bags!

7. Stay for at Least 7 Days – If you’re traveling with kids, give yourself enough time to enjoy and practice. We stayed for 6 days, but I wish we had one more day to play and perfect our snowboarding and skiing skills.

8. Water is Essential – Falling, getting up, and moving through snow is hard work! Bring a water bottle that you can stash in your snow pants or outfit—you’ll need it.

9. Snowy Fun Beyond Skiing – Not everyone has to hit the slopes to have a great time. If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, there’s still so much fun to be had in the snow! Make snow angels, have snowball fights, or go intertubing. It’s a blast, even without skis.

This trip wasn’t just about fun—it was about building a legacy of love, faith, and unforgettable memories. It's in moments like these that I feel God’s presence most profoundly, reminding me of the importance of family and creating a life filled with joy, connection, and purpose.

Through it all, I am reminded of my mission: to empower women to live boldly and embrace the life of their dreams. As a mother, wife, and woman of faith, I believe that every experience we share—whether conquering a mountain or simply playing in the snow—is an opportunity to grow, bond, and empower ourselves and those around us.

If you’re looking for more ways to live boldly and create a life filled with joy, I encourage you to check out my book "Your Joy is Your Job: A Real Guide to Living Fully & Authentically." This book is designed to help you discover how to find joy in your everyday life and create a roadmap toward your dreams. Whether it’s in the small moments or the grand adventures, remember—your joy is your job, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Thank you, Park City, for giving my family the space to bond, grow, and create memories that will forever inspire us. Here's to more fearless adventures and creating a legacy of joy, love, and empowerment!