• Fashion
  • Lifestyle
    • Home
    • Wellness
    • Travel
  • Beauty
  • Home
  • About
  • Services
    • List
    • Testimonials
  • Contact

Big White, A Winter Wonderland

March 2, 2018

Family Ski Vacation Big White CanadaSki Vacation Big WhiteWinter Sports Big White CanadaTubbing Happy Valley Big White CanadaAs the weather continues to be varying degrees of frigid here in the Pacific Northwest, I seriously began to question our plans to spend the week of mid-winter break skiing in Canada.  Not even Whistler, which seems like a simple straight shot from Seattle (I mean, they have snow but isn’t their climate similar to Seattle?)…but the Canadian Rockies.  As I was anxiously watching the forecast hover near 0 degrees (double and triple checking that I was in Fahrenheit and not Celsius), I was thinking that we were crazy for these plans!  I mean, our neighbors were off to soak up the sun in Hawaii, Mexico, and Florida.

We packed and repacked the car.  Do we need hand and foot warmers?  Do we put the rocket box on top of the car?  We did and then we took it off.  Yet no sooner did we set off, it was the beginning of an epic adventure.  Isn’t this the nature of a family road trip, after all??

Driving north towards the Canadian border was a beautiful journey and we got more and more excited as we started spotting snow.  Granted, there was some bickering (let’s be real, the three kids were packed among our snow gear in the back seat), and we had to close-up the iPads so that we could count the bald eagles.  But the gradual climb after Kelowna, BC (Dairy Queen cones in hand), was full of wonder and anticipation.  What could Big White have in store for us?  We could not have anticipated the wonderful surprise we had ahead of us.

Kids Ski Day Big White CanadaSnow Ghosts Big White“Snow Ghosts”Big White Ski CanadaOur condo right off the ‘Easy Street’ run, through the village

Ski Big White CanadaThis photo taken from our window.  Celebrating local Olympian, Kelsey Serwa’s gold medal ski cross win

Where We Stayed
Our condo?  I mean the description couldn’t have been more acurate when they stated it is “ski in, ski out.”  One reviewer described handing a cup of coffee out the window to a passing skier.  In fact, the entire village seems to be surrounded by blue and green runs with easy access to the lifts and gondola that weave in and out of the center of the village.  For a family ski vacation, the easy access to our condo was key.  We stopped in for potty breaks and snacks and lunch.  The kids got on their ski clothes (no easy feat!), shoveled in some breakfast, and trudged with skis in their father’s hands up to the ski school each morning.  We didn’t drive our car our entire stay!  Which again, as novice snow drivers, was key.

We found our condo on HomeAway; however, you can also find accommodations to fit your needs through the Big White central reservation system, which offers additional discounts and packages.

Ski Lessons Big White CanadaThe girls loved their instructor, Amy

Snow Board Big White BCFamily Ski Vacation Big White CanadaSeattle Family Ski Trip Big WhiteSnow Vacation Big White Canada

It’s The Snow

Big White’s claim to fame is it’s “Okanagan Champaign Powder.”  While I know that I love champagne, I wasn’t sure what this meant until I truly experienced this phenomenal snow!  Especially coming from Western Washington, where I’m used to the scratching noise my board makes on the icy conditions.  The snow at Big White was truly aaaaamazing!  Not too heavy, thick or even fluffy…but just right.

But the best part of the mountain?  You can get take any lift to the top and take several blue and green runs down.  From the very top.  Unlike other resorts, where I have felt stuck on the same few lifts where all 3 of my kids can ski, we were able to explore the entire mountain without fear of getting stuck going down a run outside of our comfort zone.

The kids enjoyed two full day of lessons at Big White (a reasonable 9:30 am-3:15 pm, including lunch).  The ski school is hard to miss, located in the center of the village.  The kids explored the entire mountain and couldn’t wait to show us the “bumpy alley,” Winnie the Pooh’s house, and other fun courses hidden among the runs.  And what a treat it is to ski with adults, like a double date.  By 3:15, you’re ready to rejoin your rowdy clan and ski several runs together before turning in the skis for the remainder of the day.  And, after 2 days of lessons, we felt confident skiing the third day as a family of 5.  There was even a 6-person chair that we were all able to ride up together!

Happy Valley Family Fun Big WhiteSnow Tubbing Big White BCFamily Fun Big White CanadaSnow Tubbing for AdultsTubbing Family Fun Big WhiteFamily Fun

The play didn’t stop mid-afternoon…with two families including 5 kids between us, does it ever??  Big White offers numerous family activities after the lifts close.  The kids enjoyed free popcorn and hot cocoa each afternoon after a short Gondola ride down the the Happy Valley lodge.  Meanwhile, exhausted adults toasted to another fabulous day of tiring each other out.  Nachos and live music completed the perfect day.

As if skiing and boarding were not enough, we got out on the ice rink one morning.  Jack rented his first pair of hockey skates…who knew they were different than figure skates??  Ok, every Canadian.  You can also rent a hockey stick.  We stuck with the walkers.

And tubing.  Not just for kids!  The husbands were first reluctant to participate but the entire crew agreed that this may have been our most favorite activity.  And with a magic carpet and lights, you can go up again and again (and again) for endless fun.  Or until you get hungry.  Too exhausted to make our meal, we took the gondola back up to the village for pizza.

And one of the most special coincidences was that the winter Olympics in Pyeong Chang coincided with our trip.  While sipping cocoa after a day on the slopes, the kids were glued to the tv watching down hill skiing, hockey…and curling.  In the mornings, they were inspired to build half pipes out of lego, complete with a medal stand.  In fact, hometown athlete Kelsey Serwa won a gold medal in the women’s ski cross while we were visiting.  It was so exciting to partake in the celebration!

Check out all of the “after-run” activities Big White has to offer.  Ice climbing?  And snow mobiling for kids?  Clearly we need to go back.

Kid Ski Fun Big White BCGondola Ski Big White CanadaSeattle Family Vacation Big WhiteWe’re Going Back!

Alas, all good things must come to an end.  Not ready to return to reality, we spent an extra night in Kelowna (an hour outside of Big White).  There we caught a Kelowna Rockets hockey game against the Seattle Thunderbirds.  I’m a new hockey fan!  The music, the energy (they give out cow bells), the beer, and the fast-paced games…we loved it all!  So much so, we came home and signed-up for the waiting list for Seattle’s pending NHL team.  Really.  Perhaps I just love everything about Canada?!

We’re already planning our return trip.  To note, lift tickets are free this April 1-8 when you book your accommodations through the Big White central reservation system.  And, Alaska flies directly from Seattle to Kelowna (you can skip the 6-7 hour road trip adventure), and your lift ticket is free the day of your flight (for any date)!

Join us!  Sunny weather, beach vacations pale in comparison to the family fun to be had in Big White’s snow.  Thanks for reading.  ~Jenn

Family Fun Okanagan Skiing Big White

This post was done in collaboration with Ski Big White resort.  As always, you can expect all opinions on this blog to be entirely my own.

Thank you to Sam Deighton of Big White for the beautiful family photos of our tubing adventures.

 

 

Comments: 0   //   Category: Lifestyle, Travel

Share this post:

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Felt like today was just the occasion to don a seq Felt like today was just the occasion to don a sequin dress. I didn’t make it far in the heels. 
#inaugurationstyle #sequinsfordays #itsjustfashion
Each day I’ve intended to post here. I greeted t Each day I’ve intended to post here. I greeted the new year feeling inspired with a renewed intention for my account; to share with you the goodies I love, wear, try. Unfiltered and honest. That’s what I’m here for. But then...2021 arrived feeling much like her older sister, 2020. Instead, I’ve avoided a lot of social media; choosing to tune into various news outlets and into my family. So, HERE WE ARE. A post proving that I got dressed yesterday, wearing some of my new favorites (these @flamingosshoes white boots!) and steady stand-bys (year 2 wearing this @notmondaymercantile beanie on repeat). I took the kids out after school to run a couple of errands and connect with a business I love to support; we made plans for a spring share. Man, it felt good to get out! And now, I’m posting early before I’ve read the morning news. So, it’s happened. 
•
Please stay safe, remain respectful, and true to yourself. Social media is a beautiful way to connect, create, and inspire...but can also be a dangerous rabbit hole of misinformation and an opportunity for people to behave in a way they ordinarily wouldn’t in person. Off my soap box. Have a lovely Friday!#wordsfrommyheart #realoutfitgram #flamingosshoes #whiteboots #notmondaymoments
Happy New Year my dear friends! I’ve missed you Happy New Year my dear friends! I’ve missed you all but enjoyed a nice long break. Heading back home after some snow time and I’m feeling re-energized (for now). Isn’t it funny how a change in the calendar can make you feel different? Are you a “new year, new you” kinda gal or more indifferent? I do like a good reset. Even though we’ll be doing more of the same early this year, I’m feeling more optimistic. For now. Cheers to 2021!
•
•
Also, posted in stories a nearly identical photo of us from last January at the top of @schweitzer_mountain. While the photos look the same, it’s fun to think that we now are Sandpoint homeowners! A positive outcome of 2020. #newyearonthemountain #snowbest #schweitzermountain #skifamily
Snow plus a Christmas sweater...I’m checking all Snow plus a Christmas sweater...I’m checking all the boxes this year. Thinking of everyone not able to spend time with loved ones this year. I’m so grateful for our little family but really missing my parents, siblings, nieces and nephews, my in-laws.  Over a year seems far too long to be apart; but we all need to continue to be safe. It matters. #christmassweater #christmas2020 #staysafestayhome #vintagesweater
Let’s make merry! Although holiday traditions ma Let’s make merry! Although holiday traditions may look different this year; we have an opportunity to get creative and share in new experiences. Like the new-to-me homemade marshmallow recipe, @thekirstyfiles and I have the pleasure of bringing to you in partnership with @pacific_place. We encourage you to invite a few pals to a zoom date, pop a bottle of bubbly, and create these delicious confections together. I promise they’re relatively fool proof (I pulled them off!) AND a sugar-high afternoon spent with friends (even virtually) will be sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Tune in to Pacific Place’s IGTV or YouTube to see the full tutorial, including my gaff when my marshmallow began moving into the “hard ball” territory (note: this recipe does require a candy thermometer and the ability to read it!). Cheers to making the most out of holiday 2020! #homemademarshmallows #pacificplaceseattle #craftingtogether
Ooooh...how I love a good shopping day with a frie Ooooh...how I love a good shopping day with a friend. The belly laughs, chit chat, and groans (as we tried on a number of jeans) provided the escape from reality that I needed. Sometimes you don’t realize just how much you miss something until you get to enjoy it again!
.
.
Other things I love? Soft luxury cashmere, designer denim that fits like a glove, and packable hats (yes, packable!). All can be found @willaseattle; a small, women-owned boutique located in the heart of the Queen Anne neighborhood in Seattle. Be sure to check out our stories as @thekirstyfiles and I share holiday-perfect gifts for your sister, mother, girlfriends...yourself! Lucky for Kirsty and I, our husbands also know the lovely owner, Liz (and she has our wishlists on file)! 
.
.
Also very near and dear to my heart, Willa is the epitome of shopping local. The shelves are stocked with unique, small business designs; including many Seattle businesses. When you shop local, you not only support your community but also curate a look all your own!
#shoplocalseattle #seattleboutique #seattlestyle #happytoshare
Continued chronicles of dressing stylishly for you Continued chronicles of dressing stylishly for yourself, aka #stayathomestyle. Sure, 2020 may be the year of the sweatpant (combined with a sleeping bag-like coat, as seen here). And yes, a mask chain is this year’s hottest accessory. BUT I still take care to actually get dressed each day. And while lipstick may no longer be a part of my daily routine (I mean, was it ever??), it’s still important to be pulled together..if only for my own mental health. And even if no one else sees it but the grocery clerk. #whatmamaworemonday #sweatpantsseason 
•
•
PS. Did you know I usually tag everything that I’m wearing? It may not all be current, but DM me if you want more details.
A few days late but still so grateful. We’ve spe A few days late but still so grateful. We’ve spent a lot of quality time as a party of five, braved a few big changes, and (mostly) survived 2020. #dontjinxit #partyoffive #practicegratitude #seattlefamily 
photo: @chelseamacorphotography
On the eve of Black Friday sales bonanza, I hope t On the eve of Black Friday sales bonanza, I hope to inspire, remind, urge, and even beg you to ignore all of the crazy cyber sales that have been creeping into your inbox for the past week and instead SHOP SMALL this holiday season. Yes, perhaps it’s less convenient and even less of a “deal” but this pandemic is putting an even greater strain on the small and local businesses that are the absolute life blood of our communities. And, in addition to supporting an entrepreneur and neighbor, you’ll likely find more creative, individual, and unique gifts for your loved ones by shopping a small business.
•
Are you in the Seattle area?  Hit me up with questions about my favorite local haunts and finds. I’ve got so many ideas to share; together we can help blow your holiday giving out of the water this year! #shopsmallthischristmas #supportsmallbusiness #shopsmallseattle #seattlestylist

welcome to my blog

Thanks for reading! I began this blog in early 2014 as an outlet to share my styling tips and tricks, and disseminate shopping wisdom. I am honored when readers make a connection; whether it’s learning how to make the latest fashion trend your own or finding the perfect new addition to your wardrobe. Thank you for stopping by and spending a few minutes of your day sharing in my passion for fashion and style! ~Jenn

Search Posts

Subscribe to Posts

Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive posts by email:

Categories

  • #InstaSTYLE
  • Beauty
  • Fashion
  • Friday Favorites
  • Giveaway
  • How To
  • Lifestyle
    • Home
    • Travel
    • Wellness
  • Outfits
  • Wellness Wednesday
  • What I'm Lovin
    • Gift Guide

Archives

  • January 2020
  • October 2019
  • August 2019
  • June 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • June 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
All Content ©2017 - Jenniferlovin.com
Website by Made to Thrive

Copyright © 2021 · Jennifer Lovin on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

  • Fashion
  • Lifestyle
  • Beauty
  • About
  • Services
  • Testimonials
  • Contact