Some people have a hard time understanding why anyone would choose a ski vacation over a tropical one - and by “some people,” I mean, “me.” Preference for poolside mixed drinks aside, the cold weather, extreme physical exertion, cold weather, lack of snorkeling opportunities, and cold weather all seem like remarkable vacation turn-offs. Or so I thought, until my recent family ski trip to Lake Tahoe. Yes, a ski trip. Yes, in the winter. Yes, me, alright already!

The kids and their cousins had such a blast, and didn’t complain once about the physical exertion or cold weather. Well, one kid complained a little, but she’ll remain unidentified for the sake of future therapy bills. The joy of the five children learning to ski and really enjoying each others company was heartwarming enough to make up - almost - for the 20 degree weather.

Now, Lake Tahoe is considered an excellent ski resort area, one of the best in North America; it certainly is child-friendly. Our hotel, Embassy Suites, seemed to be 80% family ski travelers. I learned how to ski, kind of, and my kids love to talk about how I spent a lot of time with my rear end in the snow. Thanks, kids! Now that we know we don’t completely hate ski vacations, maybe we’ll actually make it up to Whistler next year. Maybe. I hear that 20 degrees is considered relatively balmy up there.