Skiing with the kids over the holiday.

The Christmas holiday is a great time for family skiing. But high expectations can also lead to disappointments. So before you get on the slopes this week, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Know what you're in for: Things can go a lot slower when kids are involved. You may need to take a lot of bathroom and food breaks, and quit a lot earlier than you'd like. So be patient.

Don't force it: Don't take family members on slopes they're not ready to handle, just because you want to ski there. Not only is it not safe, but it's a good way to freak someone out -- and turn them off to skiing entirely.

Don't use ski instructors as baby sitters: It's not fair to the instructor not to show up on time at the end of your kids' lesson. And be sure to leave a tip!

Listen to what your kids want to do: And then do it (okay, within reason). They're not small for long. It'll make for a better relationship, and great memories in the years ahead.

Make it fun! That's what the holiday season is all about.

Have a happy, happy holiday!

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, an internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.