| j+j orman |: 2012 in a nutshell

Hello long lost friends!

It has been quite some time since our last post, and before we embark on our next adventure (Peru January 2013---we would love any advice/suggestions from those who have been there!) I thought I better wrap up our 2012 travel! It was all at the beginning of the year, so I will try and keep it short! It's been a really fun year and we have much to be thankful for.

january | the U.P., Michigan

We began 2012 with a New Year's trip to "the Oberhaus" in Bessemer, Michigan. A fun and memorable weekend of skiing in the U.P. with good friends! We really enjoyed the skiing, but still prefer Lutsen for midwest ski areas.

january | Lutsen, Minnesota

We had the best time with my grandparents at their beautiful cabin in Lutsen, Minnesota. We downhill and crosscountry skied, had wonderful food, games, and reading by the fire. My grandparents are two of the most inspiring and wonderful people in the world. And we love Lutsen and nearby Grand Marais. Definitely worth a visit no matter the season.

february | Colorado

We spent a long weekend in Denver and Vail with my lovely aunt Bente, husband Peter, and baby Christian. Skied 2 days at Vail---our first time there and really enjoyed it. Gorgeous views, long runs, and even some fresh powder! Really fantastic time---we hope to go back soon.

march | Cancun, Mexico

For Christmas my parents generously gave us all a trip to Mexico! There are no words to describe how lovely the beaches, how fantastic the food, how gracious the service, and how wonderful the company.

This first image is from one of my favorite places on the planet: Akumal. It has been several years since my family first visited, and this was the place I would always go to in my mind on cold, blustery, Minnesota days. But visiting this time, many years later, we were shocked to find what was once an undiscovered, quiet snorkeling beach has become very very popular. Sigh. It is still so beautiful, nonetheless.