Skiing in the Italian Alps - How Did You Start 2009?

Through karate Barry has got to know a really lovely Italian gentleman - and I use the term in all its meanings - called Adriano. At the end of year karate dinner we also got to meet his wife Nicolleta. These people have been kindness itself to us and made life much, much easier than it might have been. At their insistence we went to visit them for a days skiing at a little ski field in the Valle Aosta.

With friend Anna visiting from London, we drove through fog for nearly two hours and then through a tunnel - and suddenly - there were the alps. Another half hour climb and we reached the 'Petite Prince Hotel' to a very warm welcome from Adriano, Nicolleta and their two dogs, Stella the Newfoundland and Archimede the mut - who were also holidaying with them. (You can do that in italy.)

The field was magical - at least it was today.

It was a complete circus getting boots, skis and poles for everyone - and we ALMOST abandoned the entire effort at this point - but not to be defeated by the usual Italian lack of organisational ability we persevered!

Caitlin, Anna and Fiona waiting - cheerfully at this stage - to get ski gear.

Finally fully outfitted we headed for the (baby) slopes.

It didn't take long at all for Anna, Fiona and Barry to rediscover their snow feet - a little longer for the kids to find their's for the first time... still within a few hours we were all flying down the slopes like we'd been doing it for years - rather than it being years since we'd last done it!

Caitlin tearing up the slopes.

Alan relaxing back into his skis. We hope you all had a great New Years Eve - and wish you all a totally magnificent 2009!
Buon Anno from la Bella Italia!