tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26514150504448164032024-03-18T23:01:43.682-04:00Outdoor MomAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11034229639718514974noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-46417902243409089512016-04-06T14:03:00.001-04:002016-04-07T08:01:06.299-04:00Ski Ya Later, Winter<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzVpmWnHsSHuJTvUfL92gQyGYrR9ihi0FuopqYOb2YVKFb4es-zT2Rxi592gB8HrVyya1hkjCCEDtV8l09rcAxlTS9z-rUQG6S5FTKnHFBZDRMx0W2P1kPrU3x30dumBlgRwaYW4yKGZUO/s1600/IMG_6936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzVpmWnHsSHuJTvUfL92gQyGYrR9ihi0FuopqYOb2YVKFb4es-zT2Rxi592gB8HrVyya1hkjCCEDtV8l09rcAxlTS9z-rUQG6S5FTKnHFBZDRMx0W2P1kPrU3x30dumBlgRwaYW4yKGZUO/s320/IMG_6936.jpg" width="320" /></a>There’s a lot of lamenting going around about how terrible
this ski season was. True, it wasn’t the powder-filled bonanza that we relished last year.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We started the season off in November, and while the snow
was lean, there was no reason not to hold out hope. The holidays came, relatives
cancelled their ski getaway with us, and the slopes remained on the slim side,
but ever the optimist, I believed the snow would come. January and February
came and went and still, I think I can count the two times I skied in the
woods, both times immediately regretting what the rocks and roots just barely
covered with a dusting of snow were doing to my bases. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgEqug4dcbFYp76pqQtTB75aJ0OLI6yU3FQqqKOjn5R4N4zr77_JfpKwb_xvvH7J688X8US86Bt_5jhI5hnnjW36DZKN1MM12Je0CY5D50oe8neqUQ4IQOFIbPHhW2wxlrs6fnd2FJTHN/s1600/IMG_7101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgEqug4dcbFYp76pqQtTB75aJ0OLI6yU3FQqqKOjn5R4N4zr77_JfpKwb_xvvH7J688X8US86Bt_5jhI5hnnjW36DZKN1MM12Je0CY5D50oe8neqUQ4IQOFIbPHhW2wxlrs6fnd2FJTHN/s320/IMG_7101.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
Yet in true Yankee style, we got out there. Snowmakers and
groomers relentlessly performed their magic and made sweet corduroy day after
day. We got out there every weekend, save for a fun pre-Christmas wedding we
took part in. We skied on Range View, Bode’s Run, and eventually Waumbeck. We
skied on ice, we skied on packed powder, we skied on groomers and more
groomers. We skied in the sun and we skied in the fog. We skied in rain and
enjoyed the edgeable snow as we watched it drain down the sides of the trails. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br />
The kids were out there every weekend with the ski team,
from pre-season dryland training to a fun dual-slalom season-ender, racing against parents and friends and coaches. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9z59Kl9drlTEBgkvaWwJbR5X3U1wM6CeX2wBl6SHVVLGKaRMsX7QSVog47Mv0IKlVvyQDVKGEtCidWN0_oIY7tJeXuce4mhDfQXD3W7F40EcPERLWX8XPWIVzx2K1aTt6Gf59HYU_Fqun/s1600/IMG_6934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9z59Kl9drlTEBgkvaWwJbR5X3U1wM6CeX2wBl6SHVVLGKaRMsX7QSVog47Mv0IKlVvyQDVKGEtCidWN0_oIY7tJeXuce4mhDfQXD3W7F40EcPERLWX8XPWIVzx2K1aTt6Gf59HYU_Fqun/s320/IMG_6934.jpg" width="240" /></a>It’s not that we’re so dedicated or masochistic. It’s that
its fun. No matter what the conditions, it was always more fun than not skiing.
The kids looked forward each weekend to hitting the trails with their ski
buddies, and for that matter, so did I. Sometimes we commiserated about how
unjust the snowfall patterns were, but most of the time we remarked at how good
the skiing was despite Mother Nature's cruel joke. More than once we raised a
glass to the snowmakers and groomers who made this season possible. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sure, my Facebook feed seemed to intentionally torment me
with photo after photo of western powder shots. But we hearty New Englanders
know one thing for sure: winter will come again. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-64595065129572033782016-03-29T12:01:00.000-04:002016-03-29T12:05:14.295-04:00Silly Season on the SlopesWe skiers and snowboarders may take our days on the slopes seriously, with hours devoted to studying the right gear, finding just the right flex for our skis and the perfectly fit jacket and pants, and we might spend way too much time researching the snowfall totals to find the perfect mountain getaway. We find ourselves in the car driving for hours to the resort and devote, sometimes unsuccessfully, numerous days praying to the snow gods for a powder day.<br />
<div>
<br />
<div>
<div>
But in the end, we don't take ourselves that seriously. When the days are longer and the trails a bit narrower, despite our hopes otherwise, we know the end of the season is nigh. So what do we do? We build a pond, don the most outrageous costumes we can find, and hurl ourselves across the water on our boards in front of hundreds of onlookers who are not-so-secretly hoping we fall face-first into the icy waters.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
True spring weather temps brought out even Outdoor Dad this year for the <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/" target="_blank">Bretton Woods</a> Slush Pool competition. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWtLehG-DQp9Pv80x_gFK_KDqGwhlpxlN4eAbnq3O3mQmaerN0q2HqsSvlN_E1ssOyETXEE7fm7JPGGcCNT5FA2zo6Gk1Mg5xDz4hvRHz4KOhhRgwhYzrnrOdHH8xzDCEc8f7RQfUL3ZP/s1600/Matt+pond+skim.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNWtLehG-DQp9Pv80x_gFK_KDqGwhlpxlN4eAbnq3O3mQmaerN0q2HqsSvlN_E1ssOyETXEE7fm7JPGGcCNT5FA2zo6Gk1Mg5xDz4hvRHz4KOhhRgwhYzrnrOdHH8xzDCEc8f7RQfUL3ZP/s640/Matt+pond+skim.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor Dad saved his grass skirt just for this special occasion. (Jess Lynch photo)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha03k2W6Iykk4TnGkgvKJAIeoen1WB1WCUGeh-qFklmXrH3lClBzIEEQEa0J1bWTFqrwVBoPhIwuyYfHs22P9wYEVuOn-LN1fvijomWcSweIT2-4KaYJPErixnVPfifF7MEOD8kOrjfSML/s1600/Cat+pond+skim.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha03k2W6Iykk4TnGkgvKJAIeoen1WB1WCUGeh-qFklmXrH3lClBzIEEQEa0J1bWTFqrwVBoPhIwuyYfHs22P9wYEVuOn-LN1fvijomWcSweIT2-4KaYJPErixnVPfifF7MEOD8kOrjfSML/s640/Cat+pond+skim.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cat wore her "Paws" t-shirt and unicorn bike helmet with hopes it would catapult her across the pond. (Jess Lynch photo)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU_AJB7Uy0SugZRuJSuuO7pLGTKiyWl9xax0xFS9ZaaexBqLNjdSvjB7hsO79reDSDtiiUxudiegn8Fp2RviH2PxnS_tNc44TYyjBPj-m7zmEHKddvSVLHvOItd_j-Ce0y52kF0SS7qT9i/s1600/Ryan+Pond+Skim.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU_AJB7Uy0SugZRuJSuuO7pLGTKiyWl9xax0xFS9ZaaexBqLNjdSvjB7hsO79reDSDtiiUxudiegn8Fp2RviH2PxnS_tNc44TYyjBPj-m7zmEHKddvSVLHvOItd_j-Ce0y52kF0SS7qT9i/s640/Ryan+Pond+Skim.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ryan was so confident, he made a call to his mom while making the pond skim look easy. (Jess Lynch photo)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Those who aren't brave (or old) enough to pond skim could still get in on the fun. The whole day was devoted to Beach Party fun, and everyone from lifties to the kids dug out their best hula skirts and leis.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5f4X3s7ES039PkXw4iTTnyYh5nUXCWONeW_0OV-148e9BwvLmdKinSn75W_Gx05Q9l8EG69utWkdYn64ZPx8NwGGOZo7qSoEpsQuRWf9WKzici4taz-AGas1o-FqExb6zrjWN4VmXSNfd/s1600/IMG_7256.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5f4X3s7ES039PkXw4iTTnyYh5nUXCWONeW_0OV-148e9BwvLmdKinSn75W_Gx05Q9l8EG69utWkdYn64ZPx8NwGGOZo7qSoEpsQuRWf9WKzici4taz-AGas1o-FqExb6zrjWN4VmXSNfd/s640/IMG_7256.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Easter Bunny joined us for a few runs on Saturday too.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSRXeOV8w-QcI6qdcL3K2F9LDlWL4tiCUjqJV3N9ZZ_XFaMkWvp0RtOOEl1NyJNRLiR5NEwi4lfaiHmHMEeanwmj0srqnhxOEPhaa96jnJIbSGXXq4PeEgz9Q1W21hKzH345Do4llddOe8/s1600/IMG_7259.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSRXeOV8w-QcI6qdcL3K2F9LDlWL4tiCUjqJV3N9ZZ_XFaMkWvp0RtOOEl1NyJNRLiR5NEwi4lfaiHmHMEeanwmj0srqnhxOEPhaa96jnJIbSGXXq4PeEgz9Q1W21hKzH345Do4llddOe8/s640/IMG_7259.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We wait all year for a sunny day on the deck to enjoy some burger dogs, and perhaps a cold margarita.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqGG_H3-kmyGwPEd2wsfJZHzu33woP2dAQpSRBjuWiKrunx8gLVS9qyxFg3Jpb3LL2ivK9qBkc1ythYNZ25pqxdGeZxqo5hcXNHr3yu1_OS2BQ1wIzV9ESpw9zd1BlBxt49Cw1fIzMxFe6/s1600/IMG_7262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqGG_H3-kmyGwPEd2wsfJZHzu33woP2dAQpSRBjuWiKrunx8gLVS9qyxFg3Jpb3LL2ivK9qBkc1ythYNZ25pqxdGeZxqo5hcXNHr3yu1_OS2BQ1wIzV9ESpw9zd1BlBxt49Cw1fIzMxFe6/s640/IMG_7262.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
If you didn't see the Easter Bunny, you might still have come across Pirate Skier. His double planks kept him sailing the snowy seas.<br />
<br />
There's still one more weekend left to find your silly side on the the mountain, with the last day of the season April 3. In an effort to appease those snow gods with a nod towards the 2016-17 season, tickets will be just $16.17 on Sunday.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-73543707809920078122016-03-21T13:48:00.001-04:002016-03-21T13:48:51.034-04:00Spring Trail Count<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZByUEzIJkv43I9rfwV0DjGOQErVV6RlBqvAVfzoW8fkBT34cUoD7iCgBepH6ky0lk7nh4FEMu4ZfjaxRWJPkPgz0v9WWlr7tPHgS8YmDRJ1o2SyT2cJ9A2_5rexqTIK_PLlZKuzp5Y_8Q/s1600/IMG_7248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZByUEzIJkv43I9rfwV0DjGOQErVV6RlBqvAVfzoW8fkBT34cUoD7iCgBepH6ky0lk7nh4FEMu4ZfjaxRWJPkPgz0v9WWlr7tPHgS8YmDRJ1o2SyT2cJ9A2_5rexqTIK_PLlZKuzp5Y_8Q/s320/IMG_7248.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Friends have been asking me, how are the conditions up at Bretton Woods? There is no getting around the fact that this winter hasn't been the epic one we had last year, but the snowmaking and grooming teams at Bretton Woods have made some delicious lemonade out of the lemons we were handed this year.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifM93iDt4JO1_czWzabJQqgvkBm6q3die54t_sjSlAIgsri20TWEgMdG18K5ZpsG2mliHP6nyK8aY1ANZZQz_mdc02sxNyoQfNHFdwAWwDLfTes1KmvuZgh83ZXfzQQKIcAuzYH-5XurLQ/s1600/IMG_7201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifM93iDt4JO1_czWzabJQqgvkBm6q3die54t_sjSlAIgsri20TWEgMdG18K5ZpsG2mliHP6nyK8aY1ANZZQz_mdc02sxNyoQfNHFdwAWwDLfTes1KmvuZgh83ZXfzQQKIcAuzYH-5XurLQ/s320/IMG_7201.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This past Sunday we decided to create a little challenge for ourselves: ski every open trail on the mountain. With 189 acres to cover, it took much of our day to hit every run. With bluebird skies and not a lick of wind, the stark contrast of Mount Washington's snowcapped peak kept watch over us as we cruised the mountain. The morning's twenty-degree temps felt a bit chilly compared to the tropical blast we'd had the week before, so we started with the lower mountain runs off the Bethlehem Express Quad as the sun began to warm up the corduroy.<br />
<br />
As the day progressed, layers were shed and corn snow began to form at our feet. Never a lift line, we hopped on and waved hello to the friendly lift operators as we loaded again and again.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjn3EfjVkgw1n03IhaCKfY4vjlnORu8H1ygkP9ElwkFUiTWqbSAzSeNTM10__f3rka-k_JBia_4YEVZBJpujs92kZyNiNT087zzwCRxgcR5qUiE_yiRCO4QgS2qSedWUhhVo_PY6r_1OE/s1600/IMG_7202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjn3EfjVkgw1n03IhaCKfY4vjlnORu8H1ygkP9ElwkFUiTWqbSAzSeNTM10__f3rka-k_JBia_4YEVZBJpujs92kZyNiNT087zzwCRxgcR5qUiE_yiRCO4QgS2qSedWUhhVo_PY6r_1OE/s400/IMG_7202.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_yyyU26xYuas_vmO0H-mYoPffh3LCf2Y57VI6xhdmerxcKHy-XchVl45A_SUxhgHu757LsSjzpqpMofVyyEgB8OKFzXUXwWS8nvZ5KLPscY879ja6xdHDg9fHvw5NGeinUOg8vfc8zEA/s1600/IMG_7205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-_yyyU26xYuas_vmO0H-mYoPffh3LCf2Y57VI6xhdmerxcKHy-XchVl45A_SUxhgHu757LsSjzpqpMofVyyEgB8OKFzXUXwWS8nvZ5KLPscY879ja6xdHDg9fHvw5NGeinUOg8vfc8zEA/s400/IMG_7205.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
For a steep run, Darby's never disappoints. Water Tank's corduroy lines were still fresh into the morning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_cbK9Qd8I6Eivi3J5YcM6dLABZQFSkaGL19dZf9nciD8Tcv2jWUV9-Sdq9ffDls1lq2FE3qEb-yQ62AYXpYibBAhz2nuFpdFikwuRx29M1TnojbkeTEPNGOT2dm_Cfv2AO4zkRIDrwjv/s1600/IMG_7212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_cbK9Qd8I6Eivi3J5YcM6dLABZQFSkaGL19dZf9nciD8Tcv2jWUV9-Sdq9ffDls1lq2FE3qEb-yQ62AYXpYibBAhz2nuFpdFikwuRx29M1TnojbkeTEPNGOT2dm_Cfv2AO4zkRIDrwjv/s640/IMG_7212.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After we decided to document our ski trail challenge, my subjects took it upon themselves to spice things up a bit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSVtCTHY_NCcpRDuUZ8KJV_nGZwUJ1y9VzBD64IHSySAHnl6OU9uADXSPjwF6xJKwRyQfClnUebtbTiQ4YbqNNb8HiPEE_2y7R2qRetAkk9_SvISOI2h79ZWJC-sr-59mX_Tfi9GRmCABz/s1600/IMG_7206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSVtCTHY_NCcpRDuUZ8KJV_nGZwUJ1y9VzBD64IHSySAHnl6OU9uADXSPjwF6xJKwRyQfClnUebtbTiQ4YbqNNb8HiPEE_2y7R2qRetAkk9_SvISOI2h79ZWJC-sr-59mX_Tfi9GRmCABz/s640/IMG_7206.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our run down Bretton's Wood included a stop at the NASTAR course, where my enthusiasm overcame me and I missed a gate. At the bottom I discovered I wasn't the only one.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1n5ItTDpH75pktij6R_Ak8XTfJDetrW7PimlF-Exl9p1NwqJgglAi58WZNY0MnzH69bBO8GUbYLpGSseFqMSUkL00pPPZioQA9CX9dhvpGH1s-b7dyusp-d131x8k2yenuKtoK5EAdd7Z/s1600/IMG_7214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1n5ItTDpH75pktij6R_Ak8XTfJDetrW7PimlF-Exl9p1NwqJgglAi58WZNY0MnzH69bBO8GUbYLpGSseFqMSUkL00pPPZioQA9CX9dhvpGH1s-b7dyusp-d131x8k2yenuKtoK5EAdd7Z/s640/IMG_7214.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Fabyan's is always one of my favorites. Since In Between is closed, the only access is to take a right off the Bethlehem Express Quad, when most everyone usually goes left towards Latitude 44. We had the trail all to ourselves.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-qNMHKa8IjvaENQVPTLCjWWWQbw_CkUOr7dmE4nZcPiscEVba8IUbF5yoQsgEKOrNX6xe9tDXM4y8g_c8Y2qjd_0JTRnCCtLlgRiI2pWcZK9x0yVsxsSnkU5F6QoEbK8Un8edVBwolib/s1600/IMG_7216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-qNMHKa8IjvaENQVPTLCjWWWQbw_CkUOr7dmE4nZcPiscEVba8IUbF5yoQsgEKOrNX6xe9tDXM4y8g_c8Y2qjd_0JTRnCCtLlgRiI2pWcZK9x0yVsxsSnkU5F6QoEbK8Un8edVBwolib/s640/IMG_7216.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
McIntire's Ride had a bit of everything - some bumped up corn snow on top, a steep drop and some fun cruising around the trees towards the bottom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGj3LJLBdY8r116IJyORmV9gBTlMy3V7tVqwDWZBYnU8Dnw-OBVXFY745_A8uGKjAT9BdSgc4NF_hIa1nV0DlaBJrXuIcKnQfUjyiWsq1UTLZXB8TJqB0QPteEHTdndfoOv_hyfa6vBrKV/s1600/IMG_7227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGj3LJLBdY8r116IJyORmV9gBTlMy3V7tVqwDWZBYnU8Dnw-OBVXFY745_A8uGKjAT9BdSgc4NF_hIa1nV0DlaBJrXuIcKnQfUjyiWsq1UTLZXB8TJqB0QPteEHTdndfoOv_hyfa6vBrKV/s640/IMG_7227.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Can't miss Zealand, with that big left hander that takes me on a giant swing under the Rosebrook Quad for more turns in the soft snow.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3zeknz2rWun1NmSqC-JW0KtXz3ptjPF_fHo8mLdaVdw1kvI5r582HuklW3qYXaK77_9qMFcVonXwqqW4pJGx68nsCtOyhHQ4X7ibVKS_vo1XCVq3IVqFtpBvkgLURyPMbARBhKjz97Inl/s1600/IMG_7225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3zeknz2rWun1NmSqC-JW0KtXz3ptjPF_fHo8mLdaVdw1kvI5r582HuklW3qYXaK77_9qMFcVonXwqqW4pJGx68nsCtOyhHQ4X7ibVKS_vo1XCVq3IVqFtpBvkgLURyPMbARBhKjz97Inl/s640/IMG_7225.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We stopped for a family photo before conquering Bode's Run, once again basking in the sun and views of the Presidentials.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4N_7lKl4qPruTSyxFzl5SHMuUdjeyNNhewkXiE0m9f9LZS197frjMRxK8QPbXaSjWo309_2EST4yqbB2T6sImjdkYa9GgL3S6BYmn9uPfBT4mAIfkF_v_2z1m3lr3rlzCJqOAgf8yxk04/s1600/IMG_7233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4N_7lKl4qPruTSyxFzl5SHMuUdjeyNNhewkXiE0m9f9LZS197frjMRxK8QPbXaSjWo309_2EST4yqbB2T6sImjdkYa9GgL3S6BYmn9uPfBT4mAIfkF_v_2z1m3lr3rlzCJqOAgf8yxk04/s320/IMG_7233.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SgUWZJrhZVJFHhi5X8-7ZO0LS0SvPvrg4iBf690S7cB14ScghTCml3xE6U4tkqqjgQvQSoF8DxV8TPfWZHNGRBAyTwjnOLIj65hQroA6UDaJaGJ2thIJpp3YsWn2K6qgcgztPttBrrPu/s1600/IMG_7235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SgUWZJrhZVJFHhi5X8-7ZO0LS0SvPvrg4iBf690S7cB14ScghTCml3xE6U4tkqqjgQvQSoF8DxV8TPfWZHNGRBAyTwjnOLIj65hQroA6UDaJaGJ2thIJpp3YsWn2K6qgcgztPttBrrPu/s320/IMG_7235.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After Lunch we hit the Zephyr trails. Avalon and Range View didn't disappoint.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9JcEfoBXK_T1tJdei3WZlU1f2TGtjP45G3F055uQLnQxHxMeDTJba4IZLQXJnCOE_eVrayEOlvJoLkIzH1fUmNyEArcDlk3colIDSsGYQwMp-u9agxUCV-DCWXLunLIbDMwMictRnCfby/s1600/IMG_7238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9JcEfoBXK_T1tJdei3WZlU1f2TGtjP45G3F055uQLnQxHxMeDTJba4IZLQXJnCOE_eVrayEOlvJoLkIzH1fUmNyEArcDlk3colIDSsGYQwMp-u9agxUCV-DCWXLunLIbDMwMictRnCfby/s640/IMG_7238.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Following a ride up the Zephyr discussing our favorite types of candy, we couldn't resist a stop at Chutter's for a sweet treat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5369J-DKRQmTplN27rHdYsbHMH7izW9PrggmpEHCWY2u8DcCJJyGUVDr1iD3g5jPnm-PhA6ORKsFXt7dDQgRmVsZ50OQhEElFAu1eiQam9Ue5PQCz7JRQjkwDr0s5poVO6Z1rW_Puty5/s1600/IMG_7239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5369J-DKRQmTplN27rHdYsbHMH7izW9PrggmpEHCWY2u8DcCJJyGUVDr1iD3g5jPnm-PhA6ORKsFXt7dDQgRmVsZ50OQhEElFAu1eiQam9Ue5PQCz7JRQjkwDr0s5poVO6Z1rW_Puty5/s640/IMG_7239.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On a warm spring day like today, there was no reason to do anything but have fun and enjoy ourselves on the slopes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxo1lstjJ6qaP8eTXzqJVTKcB1vTy0RWlUHM6q0Xqp-8F-2mI3TVTNGsEBsB5XvpvUW5rd4WxgVXvl2fEa7n3sy3zzauDjmwZP59o4Yhab56i0mPbobmTcOehNQfmfEdlxU9O1sunxkxAJ/s1600/IMG_7243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxo1lstjJ6qaP8eTXzqJVTKcB1vTy0RWlUHM6q0Xqp-8F-2mI3TVTNGsEBsB5XvpvUW5rd4WxgVXvl2fEa7n3sy3zzauDjmwZP59o4Yhab56i0mPbobmTcOehNQfmfEdlxU9O1sunxkxAJ/s640/IMG_7243.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Crawford's was the last trail we hit to check them all off the list. With a sunny afternoon still beckoning us, we then went back and hit out favorites again. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It may not have been a year to cross every glade on the mountain off our list, but every day has proved to be a chance to get out on the snow and enjoy our time together. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Next on the list: <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/beach_party" target="_blank">Beach Party</a> happens March 26, and we'll be gearing up with our best island attire. Do you think we can convince Outdoor Dad to take his chances on the slush pool?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-72576664378813639162016-02-03T08:11:00.001-05:002016-02-03T08:11:31.408-05:00Why I Make Time For Skiing With My Kids<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvntcjWxDqwEbOfsfPbvyS5pzgdkL9MFDDPLkLjVj5EMvONf21zBHOjp9DBAD97Ag5PA_-pvB3wFBlRZycAP8oFenrBaH9JmhZdU33LeNkg8thzyeY5Ywiqb88jlDWh39S1lxAalIDVFU/s1600/DSC_0126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvntcjWxDqwEbOfsfPbvyS5pzgdkL9MFDDPLkLjVj5EMvONf21zBHOjp9DBAD97Ag5PA_-pvB3wFBlRZycAP8oFenrBaH9JmhZdU33LeNkg8thzyeY5Ywiqb88jlDWh39S1lxAalIDVFU/s640/DSC_0126.jpg" width="424" /></a>The winter after my daughter was born, memories of pre-baby days on the slopes still fresh in my mind, I actually bought a season pass, thinking I could zip off to the ski area with ease. Not a chance. Little did I know that I’d spend my days driving the nap mobile and nights in a nursing rocker, delirious with sleep deprivation. I emerged from the baby cave to go skiing only a handful of times that first winter, and I recall getting a phone call from the mountain nursery about 30 minutes into my first taste of temporary freedom to retrieve my screaming bundle of joy.<br />
<br />
Despite feeling that babyhood would last forever, I now know that days turn into years without notice. Entrenched in the routine of parenthood, work and school deadlines loom. We need to make it to soccer practice, finish that math assignment, and get to bed on time. It would be easy to let the daily tasks of taking care of a family consume calendar page after calendar page, but the memories of floating through shin-deep powder or hearing my skis zip over perfectly groomed lines of white corduroy lingered in my consciousness. They made me realize I want my kids to know the thrill and camaraderie of sharing a day on the slopes, the anticipation of new fallen snow that blankets the world white, the exhilaration of perfect turns on skis.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5EgbGuDXOMZcWCvO9Z6Rt2OHlFQ3xn6mVYOOYJlF9LtmvAMMfFvvUOMwzyFT71qdzWH90P4FYu08JjeVAvKtu4LHltk9pHdiCsrZHQAK1EVZbkTicPCaBqKR0GXCt4atj-RIPKK-Vkym4/s1600/DSC_0117+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5EgbGuDXOMZcWCvO9Z6Rt2OHlFQ3xn6mVYOOYJlF9LtmvAMMfFvvUOMwzyFT71qdzWH90P4FYu08JjeVAvKtu4LHltk9pHdiCsrZHQAK1EVZbkTicPCaBqKR0GXCt4atj-RIPKK-Vkym4/s400/DSC_0117+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Sharing that anticipation with the kids has ensured that they want to make the ski day happen just as much as we do. After giving our son a trail map and a highlighter to mark the trails he’s been on, he made it his personal mission to make it down every run on the mountain before the end of the year.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcvRMLDnsgbjoqU1sJ5USGCd82jQfLrpI8O-ihHVRTa4uiQ0r2AKC6l3SZGJz0ex5U_85Fghw0vQ2O-AjN88SajDY_sM_j6-izsQ8icPTVbiEfhRghGufqOwDOPYSYl0z_RAADTe8cXpMk/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcvRMLDnsgbjoqU1sJ5USGCd82jQfLrpI8O-ihHVRTa4uiQ0r2AKC6l3SZGJz0ex5U_85Fghw0vQ2O-AjN88SajDY_sM_j6-izsQ8icPTVbiEfhRghGufqOwDOPYSYl0z_RAADTe8cXpMk/s400/DSC_0007.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Opportunities for trips to Trader Joe’s and scrubbing crayon off the bathroom walls will still present themselves, but as the kids fly through their grade school years, the chances to giggle on the chairlift about our last escapade through the Stickney Glades won’t always be there. In making family time at the mountain a priority, sometimes we have to decline an invitation to a sugar-filled birthday party at the local playplace. That's OK because the pride in my son’s voice after conquering the bumps on Agassiz is a much sweeter reward. The pile of clean laundry can also wait. The glow on my daughter’s face after a race down Deception Bowl leaves us with meaningful memories that trump neatly folded clothes any day.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-80568188796176004982016-01-27T12:59:00.001-05:002016-01-27T12:59:28.236-05:00West Mountain Tower Goes Pink<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you've had the pleasure of riding the West Mountain Express at <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/" target="_blank">Bretton Woods</a> recently, you might have noticed something a bit different on your ride up the mountain. In a world of white snow accented by gray lift towers and evergreens, a pink lift tower now stands boldly near the top of West Mountain.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkZo_YYCoxQ4AgI9Fz_FomZqcCEBgBP7Coxomjkoa7oD-_AEtElbb6_FA6yxacyS3LvkCdLVt1Hjgs_1NnRSvPyNm_sMtFETUd95UcriWvUsRh3wobdpFzXilurVV4BVmUwzUXrLD_rjdw/s1600/IMG_6722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkZo_YYCoxQ4AgI9Fz_FomZqcCEBgBP7Coxomjkoa7oD-_AEtElbb6_FA6yxacyS3LvkCdLVt1Hjgs_1NnRSvPyNm_sMtFETUd95UcriWvUsRh3wobdpFzXilurVV4BVmUwzUXrLD_rjdw/s640/IMG_6722.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 17pt; margin-bottom: 12pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tower 11 has been painted pink to raise awareness for breast cancer and honor survivors, as well as those who have lost their lives and those still battling the disease. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Aa5E0997aNNblz01S2tE819uC3yzcwAavECttZ7jyv8Nw9e4Y6TZCfxZwPJ8mf_SxN5sX46_W5sASSvnm-D_HdM4KLqi3kJNJo-zcv95c3HTmvhqhbCRguZ3dXvOK7xeNNCrA2r0DHAR/s1600/IMG_6724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Aa5E0997aNNblz01S2tE819uC3yzcwAavECttZ7jyv8Nw9e4Y6TZCfxZwPJ8mf_SxN5sX46_W5sASSvnm-D_HdM4KLqi3kJNJo-zcv95c3HTmvhqhbCRguZ3dXvOK7xeNNCrA2r0DHAR/s640/IMG_6724.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The resort held a Breast Cancer Awareness Weekend January 16-17 and raised $1600</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> for the Norris Cotton Cancer Center in Lebanon, NH. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at noon in the base lodge Saturday in front of a full lunch-time crowd.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgBZ5Kg4-6g44atFnsLDfEG1XgBcQCu6xeNNA5xJxqETRh2g_Cfq3yk-VjAlAPm9LXSk7vknD0ZI5cKGlgTZdNdn69XiAltr5aSGRsrG59jCO66YWrx9YtTVQt3JwqSad6tJn5-24E8vV/s1600/IMG_6706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvgBZ5Kg4-6g44atFnsLDfEG1XgBcQCu6xeNNA5xJxqETRh2g_Cfq3yk-VjAlAPm9LXSk7vknD0ZI5cKGlgTZdNdn69XiAltr5aSGRsrG59jCO66YWrx9YtTVQt3JwqSad6tJn5-24E8vV/s640/IMG_6706.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
The money raised went to the <a href="http://cancer.dartmouth.edu/dv/friends_cancer_center.html" target="_blank">Friends of Norris Cotton Cancer Center</a>, dedicated to supporting the services provided by Dartmouth-Hitchcock Norris Cotton Cancer Center, a world-renowned cancer treatment and research facility affiliated with The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt75HnzO6Tq8_y6tIjwyotYJknLFhe7QjG5LCWm8L6EGky48eV0tQJkJZ3ca0j9xGA3aMusY4lx5KwDhEp3yp4YDg9AR_mvo-MeCTeFm3V0ox0sakHVXElXbtwZ9Iwm_lO9dXgxpwTpCY8/s1600/IMG_6715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt75HnzO6Tq8_y6tIjwyotYJknLFhe7QjG5LCWm8L6EGky48eV0tQJkJZ3ca0j9xGA3aMusY4lx5KwDhEp3yp4YDg9AR_mvo-MeCTeFm3V0ox0sakHVXElXbtwZ9Iwm_lO9dXgxpwTpCY8/s640/IMG_6715.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Started in 1982, the friends of Norris Cotton have contributed more that $27 million to cancer research.<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">"Breast cancer affects hundreds of thousands of women in the United States annually. October may have already passed, but it is never the wrong time to raise awareness for a disease afflicting so many," said events and activities coordinator Veronica Fernandez in her introduction.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSJtiDHiDWBurEfpeqkXnLkjkAx9qoutNjaI2Uyamjd8IylBU8lo1dDKH6T-bQyXs1dpGpyX5idPWcRZYntBGmZjr1pPBYpCTGkFZFufJW5GD3hfowJc8JeNt3smrDAYC5qYANGLdReBLG/s1600/IMG_6710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSJtiDHiDWBurEfpeqkXnLkjkAx9qoutNjaI2Uyamjd8IylBU8lo1dDKH6T-bQyXs1dpGpyX5idPWcRZYntBGmZjr1pPBYpCTGkFZFufJW5GD3hfowJc8JeNt3smrDAYC5qYANGLdReBLG/s640/IMG_6710.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jim Bonney, Friends of Norris Cotton Cancer Center chairperson and cancer survivor cut the ceremonial ribbon and spoke to everyone about why this is such an important effort to take part in. "</span>We can't spread awareness enough. It is wildly expensive to research and develop. What anyone can do to donate helps fund their cutting edge research and patient services."<br />
<br />
The donated funds go to funding world class research, state of the art equipment, critical education programs, and clinical trials which help cancer patients all over the world.<br />
<br />
"I'm also here as a cancer survivor, diagnosed 46 years ago. I'm at least one person who is a very greatful recipient of the services at Norris Cotton Cancer Center," Bonney told the audience.<br />
<br />
Jim explained that NCCC is one of 45 designated cancer centers in the county and the only one in New Hampshire, making it an important resource for everyone in the state.<br />
<br />
He added that research there is "cutting edge- truly cutting edge," with scientists exploring immunotherapy as well as drugs designed to go after the genetic structure of cancerous cells and nanotechnology, using magnetic nanoparticles to destroy malignant tumors.<br />
<br />
"This is a pernicious and prevalent disease. One in eight women are affected by breast cancer. I'd like to urge you to do something. It can be a very lonely battle. It means a lot to support that person, even if it is just a casserole." Bonner also urged everyone to make a donation that will support research and patient services, such as wigs for breast cancer survivors.<br />
<br />
Bretton Woods will be continuing fundraising efforts for the Norris Cotton Cancer Center over Valentine’s Day weekend. Guests can contribute by purchasing pink ribbons for $1.00 or they can donate any amount at our various outlets.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-62621906428751463552016-01-14T10:51:00.000-05:002016-01-14T10:51:15.205-05:00A Fresh Look at Skiing with the Bretton Woods Women's Alpine RetreatBluebird skies above and corduroy below, I rode the lift
last week with a group of women who’d <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6RbQjAD0Ff5JdC3g9WGKNDx0UiDyCVFqfR_cas2IZH4YaPI-P_5kopwKBgvbiJPxBfTHeABdepTlDZK3ER7jGoUpnGSQKXrP1vSjj5YKVM4GOy6u787GMYOfN7P7tSDf11HjXCvt-dF_s/s1600/IMG_6656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6RbQjAD0Ff5JdC3g9WGKNDx0UiDyCVFqfR_cas2IZH4YaPI-P_5kopwKBgvbiJPxBfTHeABdepTlDZK3ER7jGoUpnGSQKXrP1vSjj5YKVM4GOy6u787GMYOfN7P7tSDf11HjXCvt-dF_s/s400/IMG_6656.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
taken a few days off for the <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/womens_alpine_retreat" target="_blank">Bretton Woods Women’s Alpine Retreat</a>. We joked about how our husbands were faring at
parenting without us. My husband posted on Facebook that the joke was on me
because he was unloading the dishwasher and putting everything away in the
wrong place. Tracey knew her clan would be eating out every night we were away.
Cathy was getting phone calls from the school nurse about a playground crash.<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yet once we were on the snow, distractions fell away as we
focused on the drills our coach Miki Fera had us work on. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As excited as I was to learn from a pro, before the clinic I
was a bit nervous about being critiqued. I knew this was a unique
chance to improve my skiing and gain more confidence on the slopes, but there’s an
element of vulnerability in having someone examine your technique and provide
feedback. It was a leap of faith in joining a clinic like this and hoping that
I didn’t find out that I was doing everything wrong. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But not only is Miki a pro in the sense that she’s an
Olympian and World Cup racer who’s traveled the world on her skis, she had an
amazing ability to humbly share her love of the sport by giving me tips and
techniques that tweaked the way I thought about how I moved my body and skis
down the mountain. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4DVaFiDtmrqKrwaaVHHQN2xQEYOS6W45010FxqItv8A80MFGZ22AMXuCO8fzFKtAn5oPnR0QW-vTs-0hDaTPg4Ph_IrKcYvIZE9yVfdG7yQanTFPBXW45sVX0sRdKaYnEhpE5HWmSwaO/s1600/IMG_6635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4DVaFiDtmrqKrwaaVHHQN2xQEYOS6W45010FxqItv8A80MFGZ22AMXuCO8fzFKtAn5oPnR0QW-vTs-0hDaTPg4Ph_IrKcYvIZE9yVfdG7yQanTFPBXW45sVX0sRdKaYnEhpE5HWmSwaO/s640/IMG_6635.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I want the women that join us to get confidence and see
what’s possible,” Miki told me. I’ll give you a few tools, a few things you can
work on. It’s just looking at your skiing from a different eye.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Meghan McCarthy McPhaul, <a href="http://writingsfromafulllife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">fellow outdoor mom and kids ski coach</a>, picked up some tips at the retreat as well. “Its really helpful to do
something like this every once in a while. You don’t always know how to correct
bad habits.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Meghan added that as a kid
who grew up racing, they were always doing drills, always getting feedback,
“but as an adult, you don’t get that anymore.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the top of the Rosebrook lift, Miki had us practice
sliding along a relatively flat slope with both ankles rolled in and then both
ankles rolled out. I felt like a cowboy on a horse. We giggled as we watched
one another come down the hill. Later, Meghan told me that edgework was great for
her to work on. “I hadn’t really thought about how much I need to work on
pressuring my outside edge until we did that awkward drill.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoRYL86KXqnDpVmEoqu38VyBTCRytSDdW1iuLdTuJWiBjoGbsG-4-NjCrLg72OCWjmudbiVm0VQJUWINX1zRjzEoYdw5ozsWjwag325nwZHvhRbj2rsuFISd6id_O51jkqtOvRFcRTjy-n/s1600/IMG_6651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoRYL86KXqnDpVmEoqu38VyBTCRytSDdW1iuLdTuJWiBjoGbsG-4-NjCrLg72OCWjmudbiVm0VQJUWINX1zRjzEoYdw5ozsWjwag325nwZHvhRbj2rsuFISd6id_O51jkqtOvRFcRTjy-n/s640/IMG_6651.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yet by the time we had gotten to that silly drill, it never
even entered my mind that I should feel self conscious about putting myself
into a situation that might make me look silly, might even make me lose balance
and fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even though I hadn’t spent
much time with these women before the retreat, we had some great opportunities
to get to know one another. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-JVxRJ1iFR5nJeN2abwwR-3D9LFZtd9K6J0oBX5L9T7yQs1Ms1GCnXm4MrDwYPcK6i508CavhIV4cl8uwEFjkSHlhIzOnu8NGoEf9KgczZKULxDKwQrDrFWx-csmJkZOwqML_0Xt_uUuu/s1600/DSC_0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-JVxRJ1iFR5nJeN2abwwR-3D9LFZtd9K6J0oBX5L9T7yQs1Ms1GCnXm4MrDwYPcK6i508CavhIV4cl8uwEFjkSHlhIzOnu8NGoEf9KgczZKULxDKwQrDrFWx-csmJkZOwqML_0Xt_uUuu/s640/DSC_0022.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miki's mom, visiting from Romania, joined us for an evening at The Spa.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The retreat started off with a wine and cheese welcome
reception at The Spa, a luxurious chance to relax, have a glass of wine, and
grab a chair massage in between telling stories about what brought each of us
to skiing and to the retreat. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6LTMJFt32YjG9xTJ6_aV-a0bf4NeWVXSkZ1CF8Rcy0sElA4dluzMaf28mIQVosC43wXYMNREX-MyEFPHhrlZnYpakkGv2Vmvbfl6mMnhTfV5a0AH9_k5rkf1hkxNu346mkJq578T8qffG/s1600/DSC_0041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6LTMJFt32YjG9xTJ6_aV-a0bf4NeWVXSkZ1CF8Rcy0sElA4dluzMaf28mIQVosC43wXYMNREX-MyEFPHhrlZnYpakkGv2Vmvbfl6mMnhTfV5a0AH9_k5rkf1hkxNu346mkJq578T8qffG/s640/DSC_0041.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We warmed up with some stretching in the mornings and enjoyed some painting fun on Thursday night.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For Miki, leading the retreat is a chance to do something
different from being a mom, wife, and ski coach. “Being a new mom, I knew there
might be other women like me that just want to get away. For some moms, it’s
a way to get back into the sport. I like to be active, and it’s hard to find
time to do something for myself.” She added that she knows there are also women
who might not be in charge of a family, but want the companionship of skiing
with other like-minded women.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That opportunity to ski for a few days with other like-minded
women made me think about how different the dynamic can be skiing with just the
girls. Unlike skiing with the guys, I didn’t feel the compulsion to prove
myself, to prove that I belonged there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although I’m a competitive person, I think women tend to be more
supportive rather than competitive. Perhaps is it is instinctual to be more
nurturing – we cheer each other on rather than talk trash. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our duties as moms were never too far away. For this group
of women, the conversation often turned to our kids and the joys and challenges
of raising rippers. But for a few days, Miki’s contagious enthusiasm encouraged
us to embrace our own opportunities to make the best of our ski days. I’m ready
to hit the slopes again with a few things to work on, and a few new friends I
know will be ready to join me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-90776001829863540702016-01-05T13:35:00.001-05:002016-01-05T13:35:49.010-05:00Be A Part of History at the World's Largest Ski and Snowboard LessonI'm a huge fan of lessons. Ski lessons that is. I realized <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2010/12/fun-lessons-learned.html" target="_blank">very quickly</a> as my kids progressed from learning how to walk around with sticks attached to their feet to riding the magic carpet to tackling the bunny hill that even though I know intuitively what my body should be doing when I ski down the hill, it's a fully different task to explain to someone else how to make the body move, and how to approach the slope mentally, to get down the hill with confidence.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjoPRIfJQVSNSrWUBQLgLjtucL5YOdcaFibyU9nWuh0e7GesocBZ14uxFl1MORtQ_qmY5qyZ9V-10g482A1Kpz5EpoLAy8ZaoIAe-dFUUIN4hBp7qrf9pKLClULSRQgIRLcnPQOxqenyDR/s1600/ski+school+headerf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjoPRIfJQVSNSrWUBQLgLjtucL5YOdcaFibyU9nWuh0e7GesocBZ14uxFl1MORtQ_qmY5qyZ9V-10g482A1Kpz5EpoLAy8ZaoIAe-dFUUIN4hBp7qrf9pKLClULSRQgIRLcnPQOxqenyDR/s640/ski+school+headerf.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
For several years, January has been <a href="http://learntoskiandsnowboard.org/" target="_blank">Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month</a>, and it's a chance to get a taste for a sport that so many of us have fallen in love with. Not only do you get to learn from the professionals, but many resorts make it affordable so that getting into a sport you're not familiar with isn't a total leap of faith.<br />
<br />
This year, there's even more incentive for you, or someone you know would love it, to try skiing or snowboarding. On Friday, January 8, 2016 at 10 a.m., ski areas throughout the country will be participating in something that has never been done before. They will all be a part of a nationwide effort to set the <a href="http://learntoskiandsnowboard.org/special-programs/largest-lesson" target="_blank">World Record for the LARGEST multi-venue Ski and the LARGEST multi-venue Snowboard Lessons ever taught</a>. And the best part? Those who sign up and join in are going to have FUN being a part of it.<br />
<br />
This record will be for the Guinness Book of World Records. Ski resorts throughout the U.S. will be offering at 10 a.m. a beginner lesson for either ski or snowboard as part of this event.<br />
<br />
Bretton Woods is offering a <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/learntoski_snowboard" target="_blank">“10 at 10” deal </a>- that is, for $10 at 10 a.m., new skiers and riders will receive a Level 1 lesson AND a chance to be a part of history. The Learn to Ski/Ride Package includes a beginner lesson, rentals, and a beginner terrain lift ticket. Reservations required at least 24 hours in advance by calling ski school at (603) 278-3303.<br />
<br />
Save the date and spread the word. If you are a beginner who wants to learn, then join us for this nationwide effort. If you already ski or snowboard then tell your beginner friends and family members.<br />
<br />
This is not one giant lesson but many beginner lesson groups - ski or snowboard - all taking place at 10 a.m throughout the country. Ski and snowboard lessons are taught separately.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>2015-16 LEARN TO SKI / RIDE SPECIAL EVENTS</b><br />
<span style="color: red;">January 8, 2016:</span> <i>World's Largest Ski and Snowboard Nationwide Lesson Event</i> ($10)<br />
<span style="color: red;">January 11 - 15, 2016:</span> <i>Learn to Ski / Ride FREE Week</i> (Complimentary)<br />
<span style="color: red;">January 2016:</span> <i>Learn to Ski / Ride Month, Sunday- Friday, January 4 - 7 and 19 -31</i> ($39)<br />
<br />
These packages are for first-time alpine skiers and snowboarders, ages 13 plus. The package includes a Learn to Ski or Snowboard lesson, equipment rentals & beginner terrain lift ticket valid for the day of the lesson.<br />
<br />
Once you've completed your lesson, you can join those of us who love the sport and you will receive a special Explore the Woods Discount Card. The cardholder will receive a 10 percent discount at resort retail outlets and a 20 percent discount on rentals, lift tickets, and ski school lessons for the remainder of the 2015-2016 ski season. In addition, the cardholder will have the opportunity to purchase a 2016-2017 Bretton Woods season pass for 20 percent off the early season price. Additionally all Explore the Woods cardholders will be invited to the Season Passholder BBQ on March 20, 2016.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-16039996074384587822015-12-22T14:04:00.000-05:002015-12-22T14:05:55.980-05:00Holidays at Bretton Woods, Whatever the WeatherOn this first day of winter, the snow-covered Presidential Range is watching over the valley floor below where the Omni Mount Washington is decked in its finest for the holidays. The sense of magic in the air is palpable as I watch kids stare wide-eyed at the towering Christmas trees lining the grand hall of the Hotel. If there ever was a setting made for the delight of the holidays, this is it. It's hard to believe in its 113-year history, the <a href="http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/bretton-woods-mount-washington" target="_blank">Omni Mount Washington Hotel</a> has only been open in the winter since 1999.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhrCy4Kg5cdNH2PoSTloCepP6sz_0dkgBnxadyqjizNosKnAnWNZ-u1gLBx6Vc9rWAOtQyCuFcznuTaLGe5a41GzKLWzSddoFz0E4PSBKW4kVn6ZCAXH6xbHQ99KzMaPdE1zQPL2ap0ZJu/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhrCy4Kg5cdNH2PoSTloCepP6sz_0dkgBnxadyqjizNosKnAnWNZ-u1gLBx6Vc9rWAOtQyCuFcznuTaLGe5a41GzKLWzSddoFz0E4PSBKW4kVn6ZCAXH6xbHQ99KzMaPdE1zQPL2ap0ZJu/s640/DSC_0009.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
Although there certainly have been snowier starts to <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/" target="_blank">Bretton Woods</a> winters, a fun vacation week is still in store for those of us lucky enough to spend it in the White Mountains. Bretton Woods is boasting the most open terrain in New Hampshire and I’m betting the <a href="http://www.skinet.com/ski/galleries/resort-guide-2015-best-grooming?i=55595181&s=19" target="_blank">Number One Groomers in the East</a> will be out there ensuring perfect corduroy for everyone.<br />
<br />
If you’re lucky enough to ski or ride on Christmas day, you’ll find the gift of <b>$30 lift tickets</b> at the ticket windows, and the lifts will be turning 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., giving you plenty of time to enjoy morning traditions before getting out for a leisurely first tracks.<br />
<br />
In addition to hitting the slopes, here are some other great resort activities to enjoy this week:<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I<b>ndoor Climbing Wall and Bouldering Cave </b>- A year-round <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2013/03/rockin-it-on-rock-wall-at-bretton-woods.html" target="_blank">indoor climbing</a> experience located on the lofty Slopeside level of the Bretton Woods Base Lodge. With routes up to 30 feet for beginners to experts, staff will ensure everyone in the family has a fun afternoon – rain, shine or snow. Also explore the 300 square-foot Bouldering Cave for more fun closer to the ground.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQnfrMzkMYs8Q74s2869V4auTbjGeRGysBPDMZJ7pK1D9dDV0ddIV7vZ77aOufV62eC4uc6NlPbZcMFXo2-3uMKLlYLJm6cpK5-3GHzEu9VQR3r2LcO24WkIhPrhZeHNpKuFIyp_psIof/s1600/DSC_0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQnfrMzkMYs8Q74s2869V4auTbjGeRGysBPDMZJ7pK1D9dDV0ddIV7vZ77aOufV62eC4uc6NlPbZcMFXo2-3uMKLlYLJm6cpK5-3GHzEu9VQR3r2LcO24WkIhPrhZeHNpKuFIyp_psIof/s400/DSC_0023.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
</li>
<li><b>Bretton Woods Canopy Tour</b> - I can personally attest that the <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2015/01/soar-through-forest-on-canopy-tour.html" target="_blank">Canopy Tour</a> is not to be missed when you are at Bretton Woods, no matter what time of year. Descending over 1,000 feet of elevation, the tour takes nature lovers and thrill-seekers across a series of nine treetop zip lines, and is one of the longest zip line canopy tours in New England. Suspension bridges and hiking trails connect the highflying zip lines. Reservations required.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vgLm81VfpI-78x-Q2aXD_py5K0umQBvD6QX4jm_zvgr_dEsFHtEcJ5UAUjEcOOZviWSnV4MqMCWaW0KGazW-Kq7Su0VEj6ZEJFN1CJY3oygzHyQf0TPe5JiJOZnIv95oKUruiqtBcLpq/s1600/IMG_0015_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vgLm81VfpI-78x-Q2aXD_py5K0umQBvD6QX4jm_zvgr_dEsFHtEcJ5UAUjEcOOZviWSnV4MqMCWaW0KGazW-Kq7Su0VEj6ZEJFN1CJY3oygzHyQf0TPe5JiJOZnIv95oKUruiqtBcLpq/s400/IMG_0015_2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
</li>
<li><b>Dog Sledding</b> (currently operating with wheeled carts) - Take in the spectacular winter scenery as you glide <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2011/01/dog-sled-adventure.html" target="_blank">behind a powerful team of sled dogs</a>. Experience nature as explorers have for hundreds of years. Reservations required.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB3ppstTlxwiFgHnZ7HadN2Fm3mP-kvrcI8eNldXJ0m7V5yRq85Z6lOCEwZsvQ4Zrn60ZDn0w5_Aunzvoq2GrQGltCPcgmFCSCwy3iczpJJZ3EwPQ5v7UJeL_s0xp_j9a-oAgiQEOcuejO/s1600/5888229631_bfccbc0348_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB3ppstTlxwiFgHnZ7HadN2Fm3mP-kvrcI8eNldXJ0m7V5yRq85Z6lOCEwZsvQ4Zrn60ZDn0w5_Aunzvoq2GrQGltCPcgmFCSCwy3iczpJJZ3EwPQ5v7UJeL_s0xp_j9a-oAgiQEOcuejO/s400/5888229631_bfccbc0348_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</li>
<li><b>Elf Tuck-In and Tea with Mrs. Claus</b> - For a holiday treat for the kids, you can schedule a special bedtime story and treat with one of Santa’s own with the <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/search/label/Elf%20Tuck-in" target="_blank">Elf Tuck-In</a>. Or for an afternoon with the lady who’s really in charge, <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2014/12/holiday-tea-time-with-mrs-claus.html" target="_blank">Tea with Mrs. Claus</a> is sure to delight as it fills their tummies.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFUT8p9fsp91TCfo-bcVEWCXPvHpMkeD0G7ySTkReym9imBqxObbpYBqNepC2vo30hbsWwK-yMg0n4-6u5GmNx4l-c9rDL65hAziAoP-NgOqIIsAHrCEeFKDOUy-gAH6bWPpEUw977Tkfd/s1600/2011-12-12+%252886%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFUT8p9fsp91TCfo-bcVEWCXPvHpMkeD0G7ySTkReym9imBqxObbpYBqNepC2vo30hbsWwK-yMg0n4-6u5GmNx4l-c9rDL65hAziAoP-NgOqIIsAHrCEeFKDOUy-gAH6bWPpEUw977Tkfd/s400/2011-12-12+%252886%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</li>
<li><b>Kids Apres Ski Parties</b> (and ones for the adults too) are scheduled throughout the week. This <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2013/12/first-chair-to-apres-ski.html" target="_blank">free party for the kids</a> takes place upstairs in the top level of the base lodge and will include live entertainment, games, activities, and refreshments for kids. Parents are welcome to leave their kids at this supervised program and enjoy entertainment at the Slopeside Lounge. </li>
</ul>
I hope your holidays are filled with joy and wonder.<br />
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-14214017370659440902015-12-07T09:40:00.000-05:002015-12-07T09:40:09.221-05:00A New Season, A New Adventure For Outdoor Mom<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioDvNAEYm6g9WYuBaWnNQxY-XTnWbMy0IpSyTJM9pPwfTMVARvZz52tfPrL4_ksvNIOmj7cMkJ1P3zgfvOjpQYJbswVKpCdiVSv6ZT9WroOjLE90Q4NBZAlaTvB7AM8QnAIsNmyrUthBGN/s1600/DSC_0117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioDvNAEYm6g9WYuBaWnNQxY-XTnWbMy0IpSyTJM9pPwfTMVARvZz52tfPrL4_ksvNIOmj7cMkJ1P3zgfvOjpQYJbswVKpCdiVSv6ZT9WroOjLE90Q4NBZAlaTvB7AM8QnAIsNmyrUthBGN/s400/DSC_0117.jpg" width="400" /></a>As I woosh down the trail across the early season snow
chasing my kids, I am suddenly struck by the fact that skiing with them is all of a sudden <i>easy. </i>I am no longer picking up floppy bodies off the limited scope of the bunny hill
while I watch the pristine corduroy of higher elevations from a distance. I’m
not worried that my little guy might not make it down the interminably long
distance of a run from the top of the mountain. There’s no threat that if we
don’t finish this run up soon we might not make it back to the house in time
for a scheduled nap.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But hitting the slopes is not all routine this year. The
<a href="http://brettonwoods.com/junior_racing#top" target="_blank">Bretton Woods Race Team</a> is our new adventure for the season. Bridget has looked
up to those red-jacketed bombers for a while now, and she’s now old enough to
join their ranks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRlEhiHmgrEnrc87u5SS7zajz6u1n9PE5FRmftxIqS0ukVRKW1UbTNuGEhGUkx-VIkaVS3OZc_S2Bn_wJGasG4LiAvL8PIOhRwrGWRhyuny8wbOg3NBkxYJ1p1-Pt1uQ5yYk5TEzOSNqnD/s1600/DSC_0129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRlEhiHmgrEnrc87u5SS7zajz6u1n9PE5FRmftxIqS0ukVRKW1UbTNuGEhGUkx-VIkaVS3OZc_S2Bn_wJGasG4LiAvL8PIOhRwrGWRhyuny8wbOg3NBkxYJ1p1-Pt1uQ5yYk5TEzOSNqnD/s640/DSC_0129.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As with any change, I’ve met this one with a mixture of
anticipation and reluctance. With the joy of exploring the mountain on skis at
a more comfortable level now, I’m not totally sure I want to give up that time
with my kids. Chatting on the chairlift about which side of Bode’s Run has the
best powder or scheming over hot chocolate at Stickney’s Cabin, planning which tree runs to
conquer next, is the best part of these days. I know I won’t witness every
moment once I hand them over to their coaches. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But my little birds are learning to fly. After a weekend of
skiing with their new groups, even little six-year-old Timmy is carrying his
own skis to the base of the lift. Eight-year-old Bridget is asking if she can
take runs with her new friends on her lunch break.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJjtm2qZdm0tyFwmLuVaKG2a_-UViIwDQQ4xKHrCw9q4JRi1xAn8oTN6s7IbazDT3x5LRcGn2UCNGIN5g6BLyqelXoanSvTde8pNTvGh0Nkc-nqfq6ugxeQHJG1RF6gYkXXoIlA318wwwn/s1600/IMG_6352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJjtm2qZdm0tyFwmLuVaKG2a_-UViIwDQQ4xKHrCw9q4JRi1xAn8oTN6s7IbazDT3x5LRcGn2UCNGIN5g6BLyqelXoanSvTde8pNTvGh0Nkc-nqfq6ugxeQHJG1RF6gYkXXoIlA318wwwn/s640/IMG_6352.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And they’re learning how to be better skiers. Although the ultimate goal is become a strong racer, at their ages, right now their coaches are focusing on the fundamentals of good form, skiing with confidence, and most of all, having fun out there with other kids.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Like figuring out how to first get back on the slopes as new
parents, the ski racing world is going to be as much of a learning experience
for me as a parent as it is for the kids. Although I’ve been a skier since
junior high school, I was never a ski racer. I’ve watched pro athletes like
Bode Miller and Lindsey Vonn take on the Olympics and World Cup, but my
understanding of grass roots ski racing is pretty limited. Suddenly there’s age
categories and different race categories and USSA memberships. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Luckily, we’ve got some great new coaches at Bretton Woods,
and I know I’ll be relying on them to help us navigate this new world. I’ll
have some posts on some of the fabulous new staff soon, but for now I can tell
you that our head coaches have already made being a Ski Racer Mom a great
experience. Gus Demaggio and Miki Fera are a husband and wife team who are not
only experienced race coaches, but also parents as well. Miki has been coaching
young athletes since 1998. A native of Romania, she has competed in three
Olympic Games, three University Games and three World Championships. Gus
developed and directed an international private race academy, Team Excel Ski
Academy, which placed many athletes on national teams. He has also worked
as a Head Coach and Ski Team Director. I’m so excited to have my kids work with
them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Any Ski Racer Moms or Dads have advice for this family?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-77351956029133815732015-04-24T12:06:00.000-04:002015-04-24T12:06:13.249-04:00Last Day At The Woods 2015<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOy8xrAnqY0fMYs-j1eqtPe9S1PbZw7tfvrPLJvlvd8UVrUAeTqT-JoK2Yp7qSmOFNGmknLbc4C9cEINP9aUUboGZ2odLEjzNObGx3Wc_EAxu8Oz0hLylVFdtUjhNKTPxXBxv13OQfeRfM/s1600/IMG_5389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOy8xrAnqY0fMYs-j1eqtPe9S1PbZw7tfvrPLJvlvd8UVrUAeTqT-JoK2Yp7qSmOFNGmknLbc4C9cEINP9aUUboGZ2odLEjzNObGx3Wc_EAxu8Oz0hLylVFdtUjhNKTPxXBxv13OQfeRfM/s1600/IMG_5389.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a><a href="http://brettonwoods.com/" target="_blank">Bretton Woods</a> encouraged everyone to use the hashtag #dayatthewoods to tag our adventures this year at the resort. We tagged probably 50 days at Bretton Woods this season.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqU2_8zZ3OlSXPe7sv9Say24CwfD-EG0DMuvbxL8E7jLwjdlPTuq647QWWcpCl2y7Uxo8q2wQb9jZPUeVJ7CVrT65v7wudAwiB5ltW-OE32-Jf-cWAyybm0lwmMdLKWT4NS-7zJrZMnsop/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqU2_8zZ3OlSXPe7sv9Say24CwfD-EG0DMuvbxL8E7jLwjdlPTuq647QWWcpCl2y7Uxo8q2wQb9jZPUeVJ7CVrT65v7wudAwiB5ltW-OE32-Jf-cWAyybm0lwmMdLKWT4NS-7zJrZMnsop/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a>Our final trip to the resort this year was one of indulgences. The last day of the season set for Patriot's Day Monday, we planned to play hooky from school and work, and spend Sunday night at the <a href="http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/bretton-woods-mount-washington" target="_blank">Omni Mount Washington Hotel</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Although the kids relished their time in the Hotel's pool more than anything, my delight was the sunny skies over the softest snow of the season on Sunday. We had traded neck gaitors for sunscreen and powder skiing for sliding on slushy mashed potatoes. The endless winter had left the trails still abundant with snow, and I was reminded of the irony of closing the mountain with so much snow still on the ground, recalling the first day of the season when we were willing to ski on one thin strip of snow in November and grab a ride on the Polaris Rangers to the still-brown base of the Zephyr Quad.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBnWf9GhY9bwDeSQdz8_NIom0sOdBDfqmfuKmUoqBipqFhomt5-HuhQOr71Gu4OwN3ibgjL9FaboAQcDbDKhFImO5GVLQRj-HEjpVcxk7R7vjswysJ-FzJe9ClsrCR8Ah9Do7O5F8Gvspn/s1600/DSC_0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBnWf9GhY9bwDeSQdz8_NIom0sOdBDfqmfuKmUoqBipqFhomt5-HuhQOr71Gu4OwN3ibgjL9FaboAQcDbDKhFImO5GVLQRj-HEjpVcxk7R7vjswysJ-FzJe9ClsrCR8Ah9Do7O5F8Gvspn/s1600/DSC_0023.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The elevation on Rosebrook made for snow that wasn't quite so slushy, and we covered every run up there from McIntire's Ride to Zealand. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgriy-B69L4GBv2bm7hpeWLu8AB-2-xphMLcm4uZBbYxXeeAIAG41Q0aZ682I5G8VHjze0fqrgtdXbNUNLosAjdyZiD9GgN32d9tvMLNdvOn9DbILzf7g5IOeRPtwnHvkESCc626tbKHdqQ/s1600/DSC_0042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgriy-B69L4GBv2bm7hpeWLu8AB-2-xphMLcm4uZBbYxXeeAIAG41Q0aZ682I5G8VHjze0fqrgtdXbNUNLosAjdyZiD9GgN32d9tvMLNdvOn9DbILzf7g5IOeRPtwnHvkESCc626tbKHdqQ/s1600/DSC_0042.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Presidential views on a perfect bluebird spring day.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ8sP2vkatWS9EiuVg5Zl6AyGWzcLoO6nRQNh90rEGcdMW0PYSCtsDOkLeSGSW1YWVKkYgh4P5aCvjtcOgPvtBOurhJCKQhXVDzJmGTIWCxxwPZIfZWA0m_vf2IJXdn2qqFgpi4Qr_P7zA/s1600/DSC_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ8sP2vkatWS9EiuVg5Zl6AyGWzcLoO6nRQNh90rEGcdMW0PYSCtsDOkLeSGSW1YWVKkYgh4P5aCvjtcOgPvtBOurhJCKQhXVDzJmGTIWCxxwPZIfZWA0m_vf2IJXdn2qqFgpi4Qr_P7zA/s1600/DSC_0044.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Timmy took a moment to show the older guys how its done on Bode's Run.</div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLxpw5pOAfn7k-UuR1Ht5B8gx3DFAi3AQgXq5WKcmmsgzwSansDyEyqmPYl-I2re_Z6KdWr_Q9i_HqExlFf2xs3RCIbfRBrLwDQJB_PLq4ySn_MMRyGAo749XLQLxQcgWfF563udt3zkTC/s1600/IMG_5399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLxpw5pOAfn7k-UuR1Ht5B8gx3DFAi3AQgXq5WKcmmsgzwSansDyEyqmPYl-I2re_Z6KdWr_Q9i_HqExlFf2xs3RCIbfRBrLwDQJB_PLq4ySn_MMRyGAo749XLQLxQcgWfF563udt3zkTC/s1600/IMG_5399.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The staff at the the Omni Mount Washington Hotel, knows how to make the kids feel welcome They were greeted warmly by the front desk staff, and each one received a Omni Kids backpack, packed with games, coloring books, crayons and a fun straw. Bridget wore hers everywhere we went at the resort. After dinner, the kids found milk and cookies waiting for them in them in our room.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxKp_mRqdJUKAjFKSYtTrKA_-_2riqLEjBDRXN6uZ8t6YbiMq4eCRcyhqKzDdKFiBa2yj_EtPJQ_8EBnPG3RDWhZTtSOSA8hJqOp3UjYfmWM61wPY-nm8GYSgg_4ebzE7xf0TyvJ9m8Vg/s1600/IMG_5406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxKp_mRqdJUKAjFKSYtTrKA_-_2riqLEjBDRXN6uZ8t6YbiMq4eCRcyhqKzDdKFiBa2yj_EtPJQ_8EBnPG3RDWhZTtSOSA8hJqOp3UjYfmWM61wPY-nm8GYSgg_4ebzE7xf0TyvJ9m8Vg/s1600/IMG_5406.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The stark contrast of snowcapped mountains above the brown valley makes the expansive vistas all the more impressive. The kids ran down the back walkway for warm dip in the outdoor heated pool.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjns9UAoJ3QEuqOSmXispaX1mrmrkNIs1F9OiwWi0A9Hvi9OsmHw2zwxtfcj8vneZPLbD6zuGIoQJXjaJbjKj5_ZRSqSVugpJDVuTdw9V7DMiBNTZL-qu6bH7WPD1rpSNKXHWAe1efKv2pS/s1600/IMG_5420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjns9UAoJ3QEuqOSmXispaX1mrmrkNIs1F9OiwWi0A9Hvi9OsmHw2zwxtfcj8vneZPLbD6zuGIoQJXjaJbjKj5_ZRSqSVugpJDVuTdw9V7DMiBNTZL-qu6bH7WPD1rpSNKXHWAe1efKv2pS/s1600/IMG_5420.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Mother Nature seemed to be as reluctant to let go of winter as I was on the last ski day of the season. But whether I like it or not, the seasons change and the kids grow. From the excitement of the <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2014/11/kick-off-ski-season-at-boston-ski.html" target="_blank">Boston Ski Show</a>, to making new friends at the <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/general/bretton_woods_club/overview" target="_blank">Bretton Woods Club</a>, to soaring through the forest on the <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2015/01/soar-through-forest-on-canopy-tour.html" target="_blank">Canopy Tour</a>, to more powder days than I can recall, it has been a wonderful adventure. Thanks for sharing it with us!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-61127769671606008042015-04-01T15:14:00.000-04:002015-04-01T15:19:59.201-04:00A Beach Party Day At The WoodsThe calendar says spring, the conditions say mid-winter. Sure, <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/" target="_blank">Bretton Woods</a> Beach Party may have not offered the mashed-potatoes snow and sunny skies we think of when dreaming of spring skiing, but that didn't stop the guests and staff at the mountain from getting into the spirit with leis and #dayatthewoods neon sunglasses for everyone. Who can resist skiing in costumes and cheering on those crazy folks who dare to make it over the slush pool using gear that's made for sliding on snow?<br />
<br />
A few of our favorite moments from last weekend:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoIKUdRnqiy3by1v3x9hL9zU-VV4cFkDbb43WFyTw10wN7SgTYG7rcCv_SQJEwg2gQ1MPIcBmXp-jnEvBkQ7gbPrvFKkv_bYHUpz7e_FH9Gqxjo9NZU5fQDFLZN_qonvSOIAWtNyBh2cH/s1600/IMG_5280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoIKUdRnqiy3by1v3x9hL9zU-VV4cFkDbb43WFyTw10wN7SgTYG7rcCv_SQJEwg2gQ1MPIcBmXp-jnEvBkQ7gbPrvFKkv_bYHUpz7e_FH9Gqxjo9NZU5fQDFLZN_qonvSOIAWtNyBh2cH/s1600/IMG_5280.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bridget skied like a butterfly all day to celebrate the coming of spring.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzmeJpvqpGe5AIDs58VAGrdyeoR08VZXA3oJWZagamlGGBoZ3u3gtPRRfakJNzv_hhACLCtjEMvHN-JD2zfcNPwK14_TBO1g-OUMLqsIICfwRgIne8ZHGtP_aKQlavNEHpkNesm8pHdVUq/s1600/IMG_5282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzmeJpvqpGe5AIDs58VAGrdyeoR08VZXA3oJWZagamlGGBoZ3u3gtPRRfakJNzv_hhACLCtjEMvHN-JD2zfcNPwK14_TBO1g-OUMLqsIICfwRgIne8ZHGtP_aKQlavNEHpkNesm8pHdVUq/s1600/IMG_5282.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Timmy wore his Dinosaur head and lei proudly as we cruised the mountain.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdDYC0AY3FYl0FtUT4NkSQOnXAHQFNDJ08ScoOf6CxTIIhWE0pnLIt2kra0rvUN0GGYXusc7HFxf5d87O3ZEx2We46NhByS0H0WVGu8178jbwRkpT88JDtiwfdTt5jhcL7cmBbtjNT6qoZ/s1600/IMG_5287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdDYC0AY3FYl0FtUT4NkSQOnXAHQFNDJ08ScoOf6CxTIIhWE0pnLIt2kra0rvUN0GGYXusc7HFxf5d87O3ZEx2We46NhByS0H0WVGu8178jbwRkpT88JDtiwfdTt5jhcL7cmBbtjNT6qoZ/s1600/IMG_5287.jpg" height="640" title="" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I took advantage of the <a href="http://www.sportthoma.com/index.php" target="_blank">Sport Thoma</a> Demo Day happening at the resort. In the firm conditions, I especially loved the <a href="http://www.blizzardsportusa.com/detail/?categoria=all+mountain+women&product_uid=128777&color_number=BKBL" target="_blank">Blizzard Viva</a> and <a href="https://www.head.com/ski/products/skis/women/super-joy/7988/?region=us" target="_blank">Head Super Joy</a>.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRMNMp7Z0hXtVkFN5E7yU3xRBl6VtlmfD6_xmIE7jrQOS2s2S5zLeUDFUHRTMrZYPTf3oc2BcDdMng9o_QaNvKc7nV5P4AkNbU1WsUQmvR8VJlulH9jwBop9t_hmJ0e5LwjUxKP6Fsp1O/s1600/54f0bbb4-83bc-4358-937a-a7322302ef8d.jpg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRMNMp7Z0hXtVkFN5E7yU3xRBl6VtlmfD6_xmIE7jrQOS2s2S5zLeUDFUHRTMrZYPTf3oc2BcDdMng9o_QaNvKc7nV5P4AkNbU1WsUQmvR8VJlulH9jwBop9t_hmJ0e5LwjUxKP6Fsp1O/s1600/54f0bbb4-83bc-4358-937a-a7322302ef8d.jpg.png" height="460" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Timmy and Bridget joined just about everyone on the mountain in cheering on the slush pool competitors. (Bretton Woods photo)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3puOwv9g4MpoFdbZBq7Tge1a3p81PtSqTTLuGNzUpoR0SbCZzSinv-0k0ZVzdKOWZZLqb_ID02JjHEfgHXiLdFw0F2ih69vurs7zTfYk-qfGEeOmRlUSsgaz4Duk8HifJYBj4ujGNtVjS/s1600/IMG_5290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3puOwv9g4MpoFdbZBq7Tge1a3p81PtSqTTLuGNzUpoR0SbCZzSinv-0k0ZVzdKOWZZLqb_ID02JjHEfgHXiLdFw0F2ih69vurs7zTfYk-qfGEeOmRlUSsgaz4Duk8HifJYBj4ujGNtVjS/s1600/IMG_5290.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">While the kids were treated to an animal show at the Kids' Apres Ski Party upstairs in the base lodge, Outdoor Dad and I just might have enjoyed an adult beverage while <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/922567007774451/" target="_blank">Jah Spirit</a> brought sunny beach vibes to northern New Hampshire.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePk1-FHWqAA4N9R30w5CKWHasZ_C8y3kR9Mxrz4EMMqMiNpd_ZkVDsQGpLQ2E_40v1vRWCzQC5byq7Baq-yDduzew12cYIe0X_L0y0KmCWwuUAFNV6BE-apSCI1MTv2fy8XOKRmuzWCgY/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePk1-FHWqAA4N9R30w5CKWHasZ_C8y3kR9Mxrz4EMMqMiNpd_ZkVDsQGpLQ2E_40v1vRWCzQC5byq7Baq-yDduzew12cYIe0X_L0y0KmCWwuUAFNV6BE-apSCI1MTv2fy8XOKRmuzWCgY/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sunday brought those sunny skies and warm temperatures that we've been dreaming of.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMXEb7_-mC0KXbMuCyQaR9fac_zBH7U7oY_y4JhiBOfKZ3NxxMSvEqo4cQVG5fTaejsjKns7FslDciTPi1b8XC3_gM6ZnBFVSYahxI70bzRoI1k53GtK9lg9CaTPnJ3pxVkl15ol6qz9v/s1600/IMG_5295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMXEb7_-mC0KXbMuCyQaR9fac_zBH7U7oY_y4JhiBOfKZ3NxxMSvEqo4cQVG5fTaejsjKns7FslDciTPi1b8XC3_gM6ZnBFVSYahxI70bzRoI1k53GtK9lg9CaTPnJ3pxVkl15ol6qz9v/s1600/IMG_5295.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">As we frolicked in the soft bumps of Peboamauk Falls, Bridget found one of the <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/groomergrabs" target="_blank">Groomer Grab</a> prizes hidden on the mountain for Beach Party. We're headed to the <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/activities/golf/mountpleasant_course" target="_blank">Mount Pleasant Golf Course</a> this summer!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-5044662387345605742015-03-16T15:25:00.001-04:002015-03-16T15:25:59.672-04:00Fun for Everyone: Family Ski Weekend at Bretton WoodsIt wasn’t that long ago that I was toting a baby and a
toddler to Bretton Woods, taking turns with my <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oiC94UbDCRewMM1xZxCFfQ7BET3CK_ZlDyaAnkXnktmhJxha4Q1tX7vWx-AuYk5ginvDP5akALFp3__7cE9UNa2uWBgdMQs85imOgWkdkWbPoKUxa21nA5W76O-Ej8lw7qqdPZ8v8CtO/s1600/IMG_5156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oiC94UbDCRewMM1xZxCFfQ7BET3CK_ZlDyaAnkXnktmhJxha4Q1tX7vWx-AuYk5ginvDP5akALFp3__7cE9UNa2uWBgdMQs85imOgWkdkWbPoKUxa21nA5W76O-Ej8lw7qqdPZ8v8CtO/s1600/IMG_5156.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
husband in the lodge with the baby
and negotiating to see who got to go out for the first powder run. In what
seems like a miracle to me now, all four of us are now choosing from just about
any run on the mountain and racing each other down.<br /><div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Outdoor Dad’s brother, Brian, and his family came for a
visit from upstate New York last weekend, and I observed with interest the new
stage of life they are entering into with a sweet 11 year-old daughter. They
confided that there was some question as to how enthusiastic their daughter
would be in doing <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">anything</i> with her
parents, let alone skiing. But if Anya was reluctant to spend time on the
slopes with her parents, I never saw it. She was often one of the first ones to
don her ski gear in the morning and was game for any trail we suggested. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLEbITTpJ1Q18-dTQMBaigi9_7Xd2V8eXkIwjQC4dIvtPloB7m1YVm3AcKo_igV1ADTOhaWcwPF2r6Jelix6E9q8Sffq7XfcjEL7g1MLDiOcHLmglvE3EEMLR8A5KCHzAtrKKf80k03kn/s1600/IMG_5166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLEbITTpJ1Q18-dTQMBaigi9_7Xd2V8eXkIwjQC4dIvtPloB7m1YVm3AcKo_igV1ADTOhaWcwPF2r6Jelix6E9q8Sffq7XfcjEL7g1MLDiOcHLmglvE3EEMLR8A5KCHzAtrKKf80k03kn/s1600/IMG_5166.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although we always have fun together as a family, this
year’s ski trip visit seemed to fall into place so much more easily than other
years, and I think it is because of the new stages in life the kids are at. Our
young ones now have the ability and stamina to spend an entire day at the
resort, without the need for naps or short attention spans. We did take some
runs on the bunny hill to warm up, but everyone was eager to explore new
terrain on the upper mountain this year. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASvv4wk3Xlb82gVEbx4mkRXZj4Qg0C43zy8IZ6aPT7RKGQtp5Us_yjUsfoj5ROPNpyZPQSRSc_9dH2-nTjNUxsZKw7DC4_EelEOAL1s11CTYYY-D8UMVncl4prQrUpAY_zsr7jbO4KyAt/s1600/IMG_5208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiASvv4wk3Xlb82gVEbx4mkRXZj4Qg0C43zy8IZ6aPT7RKGQtp5Us_yjUsfoj5ROPNpyZPQSRSc_9dH2-nTjNUxsZKw7DC4_EelEOAL1s11CTYYY-D8UMVncl4prQrUpAY_zsr7jbO4KyAt/s1600/IMG_5208.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
We giggled as we explored Granny’s Grit while heavy wet snow
covered our tracks behind us. We cheered each other on as we rolled over the
soft bumps for their first-ever glade run on Black Forest. We glided down Two Miles
Home to the Telegraph T-Bar and enjoyed the fire at the Stickney Cabin. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAuDkNE13dt0X4YsLVK5Rip5RF0sQCfDRpW9wcFqcrtkEWsPWOEcd_bV6PVKMi5kq2R75p4buhdrdAw2sXNeSNrKlreboOLl6QVKeq2fRBWwPM-8wQtlscyyZGC_kWy08iehYsjLkn3e-l/s1600/IMG_5220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAuDkNE13dt0X4YsLVK5Rip5RF0sQCfDRpW9wcFqcrtkEWsPWOEcd_bV6PVKMi5kq2R75p4buhdrdAw2sXNeSNrKlreboOLl6QVKeq2fRBWwPM-8wQtlscyyZGC_kWy08iehYsjLkn3e-l/s1600/IMG_5220.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anya’s mother was genuinely grateful when she told me, “It
was so great to have all of us out on the slopes together.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With a five and seven year-old, I can see that we’re entering
a golden age now where the kids love to spend time with Mom and Dad, and
although there are certainly squabbles about which trail we choose or who gets
to sit next to whom on the chairlift, the kids are happy to be together and
haven’t gotten to the stage where it’s not cool to hang with the parents. It
was reassuring this weekend to see that something like skiing could bring
together different ages and abilities. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAAnXn8Eh99aFIIvYebr6OTuZB8yL9IPl8VpsL9oM4Iz8zIAFAkI8gfVG7oagUocqKQsCV25vda4aJ1ikJ_1e6A8ezXnxg_rMOqlrpNt-7sQMxEdoH0wrIk8Zty6yEXLB0lzImkdTWeCx3/s1600/IMG_5227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAAnXn8Eh99aFIIvYebr6OTuZB8yL9IPl8VpsL9oM4Iz8zIAFAkI8gfVG7oagUocqKQsCV25vda4aJ1ikJ_1e6A8ezXnxg_rMOqlrpNt-7sQMxEdoH0wrIk8Zty6yEXLB0lzImkdTWeCx3/s1600/IMG_5227.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Skiing can certainly be a solitary sport, but friends and
family make it a communal experience. Depending on the stage of life a family
is experiencing, that communal experience can morph – from those baby cave
days, to mom and dad are my super hero days, to not wanting anything to do with
parents, and back hopefully, full-circle, to cherishing those moments riding a
chairlift together or stopping at the bottom of a run to recap our falls and
foibles, our cheers and triumphs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KuLrM0pJoNF8USGr9m8dM7po4IUsO1nECgmEjYuTyGr-ZY80RzBV32Kxpweyq6TKWktPqH7JmDdTiif1FF0MnMpPmjhIjHiwWbn-SeUjEpx8gXqkDtEqTG9Xapfr1URHmO2JE_SGb943/s1600/IMG_5241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3KuLrM0pJoNF8USGr9m8dM7po4IUsO1nECgmEjYuTyGr-ZY80RzBV32Kxpweyq6TKWktPqH7JmDdTiif1FF0MnMpPmjhIjHiwWbn-SeUjEpx8gXqkDtEqTG9Xapfr1URHmO2JE_SGb943/s1600/IMG_5241.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-55734411548272200962015-02-20T11:03:00.000-05:002015-02-20T11:03:25.132-05:00Preparing for Success: A Parent’s Guide to Hobbits Ski and Snowboard School at Bretton Woods<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With school vacation weeks in full swing, lots
of kids will be taking to the slopes for lessons. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are a few tips to make playing in the snow all about FUN.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigyoGsC1hH6snoue-m5qbKie7_ZGGIMuPs_02Uc6fd3IwMBy1MPYxOXIQMmKYWBgvP05sLHqqgV5l27DCt4rxnnf6bb6bQEFexg6pAF_xDVFs_t0eLdT4VkkviI1zn3raosdYsJMZkogif/s1600/dwp_bw_031414_3715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigyoGsC1hH6snoue-m5qbKie7_ZGGIMuPs_02Uc6fd3IwMBy1MPYxOXIQMmKYWBgvP05sLHqqgV5l27DCt4rxnnf6bb6bQEFexg6pAF_xDVFs_t0eLdT4VkkviI1zn3raosdYsJMZkogif/s1600/dwp_bw_031414_3715.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Keys to a fabulous experience</u></b><u>: <o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i>Make a reservation</i></b>. The <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/winter_sports/alpine/hobbits_ski_board_school#top" target="_blank">Hobbits Ski & Snowboard School</a> was at full capacity for February 13-20th. Walk in space may
be available on a first come, first serve basis, but to avoid disappointment,
call ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>Select the right program</i>. </b>The programs are designed for the comfort of each
developmental stage. Enrolling your child in the correct age-specific program
will enhance their experience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>Eat breakfast</i>. </b>Kids lose energy quickly in the cold and in
new environments<b>. <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>Plan extra time the first day</i>. </b>It always takes more time than you think it will! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>Prepare for small
challenges when leaving your child</i>. </b>Separation anxiety is common for young children
(especially three-year-olds). The staff is very skilled at working with
children. Please follow their lead and ask them for assistance in helping your
child quickly acclimate to the Hobbits environment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 0in 11.0pt; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>Let staff know if your
child has </i></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i>allergies, needs
medications, or has any learning needs</i>.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 47.0pt 1.0in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i> </i><b><i>Dress appropriately and
label clothing</i>. </b>More on dressing
for cold weather <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2015/01/dont-be-afraid-of-cold.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 47.0pt 1.0in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>Call ahead with questions</i>: </b>This will help you to be
more prepared and relaxed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Programs <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The<b>
Babes in the Woods Nursery </b>serves kids ages 2 months to 5 years. Enjoy a
worry-free stay on the slopes while caring staff entertains your child indoors
with games, storytelling and crafts.<b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The<b>
Ski & Snowplay Program, </b>for kids 3-5, is a great way to show your kids
how much fun the snow can be! The full-day program includes nursery supervision,
a one-hour group lesson and lunch. Children must be properly attired and
potty-trained to participate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Hobbit Ski & Snowboard Programs</b> at
Bretton Woods are designed to introduce your kiddos to the fun of snow
sports. Kids can take <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">ski</b> lessons as
early as age four. Kids interested in <b>snowboarding </b>lessons need to be at least six
years old. <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Private Instruction </b>is a good option for any child or family with special needs or time
requirements that do not fit into the regular programming or children who would
like a one on one experience. Private lessons are also a good option for groups
of different age children of similar abilities to ski or ride together. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>What can I expect my child to learn during the lesson? </u></b><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Three to six year-olds often take longer to “get their wings” and be
able to ski on their own. The preparedness of the child, strength, willingness,
ability to balance, and equipment are the keys to success. Each child is an
individual, so success is measured by their willingness to want to come back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Older children will often learn to turn and stop on the beginner slope
by the end of the first day. Snowboarding may take a bit longer. Be supportive
at the end of the lesson, and encourage your child to be happy with small
successes. Just balancing while gliding on skis or a board is quite an
accomplishment. Once the basic sensations have been repeated enough times,
there is often an “aha” moment when a child can glide and turn. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Instructors often use an activities-based approach, in which children
are often familiar with the games they play, and the variable is the skis or
snowboard. This will often appear that they are “just playing games” but basic
skills are being absorbed by the children as they play, making the next steps
come much more quickly... not to mention that the process is fun.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For children who already know the basics, the groups are split by </span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">age
first and then ability</b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. This provides common ground for the children so
they will make friends and have fun while learning. The groups often explore
the mountain together, and find challenges through social activities that will
build skills and help them learn resort safety and etiquette.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>What can I do to prepare my child for Hobbits? </u></b><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Talk about winter activities and what your child can expect. View the
web site together, and look at photos of the places they will be visiting.
Experience other winter oriented activities together if possible with your
child. The idea is to eliminate the unknown variables in the sport to make the
transition from the unknown to the known easier. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->For very small children, rent, borrow, or buy gear ahead of time and let
your child walk around on carpets or on the lawn fully geared up. This will
give some confidence and familiarity... be prepared to allow short exposures
often! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Kids should know their full name, age, parent’s full names, and phone
numbers. If staying at the resort, put your business card with the room number
and/or cell phone number where they can access it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>What equipment does my
child need?</u></b><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Be sure to have your child’s gear checked by a reputable shop. Be sure
the bindings are set to the boots properly. Children grow very quickly, so
double check... it can mean their safety. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Water and wind resistant, breathable insulated pants and parka. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Water proof gloves or mittens (mittens preferred for younger children).
Remember they will be in contact with lots of snow all day long! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Helmets are recommended, and are available for rent. For information on
purchase and fit, visit www.lidsonkids.org . <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Neck gaiters are a must; especially when it’s cold or snowing .<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Eye wear is critical; if you can’t see, you can’t ski or ride! Please be
sure your child has appropriately sized goggles. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->SOCKS are critical. Be sure to provide one pair of socks that fit well,
are NOT cotton (this will make for cold feet!). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->When you return home or to your hotel room, be sure to get clothing and
gear dried out. This is often forgotten, and can make the next experience very
soggy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Try to plan for a good night’s rest, adequate time to eat well the day
before and a nutritious breakfast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Rentals can be added to the Ski & Snowplay and Hobbits programs, so
there is no need to acquire them elsewhere. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Arriving at the Kids’ Alpine Club</u></b><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Parking: if you are driving to Bretton Woods, you can drive right to Kids’
Alpine Club to drop off your equipment. The Mountain Hosts will be happy to assist
you. You will need to return to park, but it will be worth the fewer steps with
your child. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are staying at one of the Omni Mount Washington Resort lodging
properties, you can take the complimentary shuttle to the ski area. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>What level should my child participate in?</u></b><b> </b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Skiers<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Red: First time on skis.
Learning to stop in a wedge.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Green (Learning Center
Quad): Can control speed and stop on the Learning Center Quad.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Green (Mountain): Can
easily control speed, stop and make direction changes on easy to moderate
terrain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Blue: Turn and stop in a
wedge; end some turns with skis parallel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Black: Skis parallel all
the time, exploring all terrain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Snowboarders</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Red: First time on a
snowboard. Can slip around on a board.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Green: Can make heel- and
toe-side turns, control speed and stop.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Blue: Can link heel- and
toe-side turns and control speed through good turn shape.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Black: Can ride all types
of terrain and trying freestyle tricks and/or carving.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For safety reasons, upper
level groups may be required to take 1-2 runs on the Learning Center Quad at
the beginning of lessons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember that first and
foremost the goal is to have FUN and enjoy the company of the children that
they are with. Be sure to speak with his or her instructor so you can find out
what actually happened in the class if you feel your child is not challenged
enough. Kids will have more fun and progress more quickly on appropriate
terrain. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>Can I observe my child
in the lesson? </b> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Children often listen
better, and learn more, when parents are not present. It is best to observe the
lesson from a spot where your child can’t see you. For beginners, the upper
deck on the Slopeside Level of the base lodge is a great spot to watch from
afar. If your kid will be on the upper trails, you can ask the instructor where
the class will be during the day.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> If your child has trouble
separating from you, try to break away anyway. Leave a cell phone number, or a
room number where you can be reached, or check in at the desk (unobtrusively)
after about a half- hour. You may be surprised at how quickly your new skier
will adjust when focused on the mountain environment and the great activities
presented. Be sure to arrive at pick-up on time to share the stories of the day
with your child and his or her instructor. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Security at Pick-Up </b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->When registering your child in the Hobbits Program, you will receive a
numbered card that must be returned at the time your child is picked up at the
Kids' Alpine Club. Children will NOT be released to an adult without this child
check card. This policy ensures the utmost safety and security for your child. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Please plan to arrive on time to see your child and discuss their day
with the instructors. You may arrive to a very sad child if they are the last
one to leave.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What kinds of questions
should I ask the instructor after the lesson? </b> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo4; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Ask about the best part of the day, or the favorite activity .<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo4; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Ask what slopes and trails they experienced together. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo4; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Ask where you might be able to ski or ride together safely. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 18.65pt; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo4; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">•<span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Ask if they made new friends, and what they are looking forward to next
time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--[if !mso]>
<style>
v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
.shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
</style>
<![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-51502468899193795742015-02-04T09:50:00.002-05:002015-02-04T09:50:15.667-05:00Why the Little Rippers Love Bretton Woods GladesAs everyone knows, the snow gods have taken a liking to New England lately. We're in this amazing pattern right now, and the combination of cold temperatures and stormy weather has made for super-light, fluffy snow - the kind that makes skiing in the woods an absolute delight for us.<div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRB6rj4NExoz1Qy4dClHHT66aA3e8JOCv_g-OX8VW76w-5fL1EECaPnB92Kvnu6RHgA0ZPIrHCTxASXJ3RewZActBXq03AAZ4QumYql3Rag84KaVYUNmwkkEdekaHVkXJjwVMVygAaRzY/s1600/IMG_4684.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRB6rj4NExoz1Qy4dClHHT66aA3e8JOCv_g-OX8VW76w-5fL1EECaPnB92Kvnu6RHgA0ZPIrHCTxASXJ3RewZActBXq03AAZ4QumYql3Rag84KaVYUNmwkkEdekaHVkXJjwVMVygAaRzY/s1600/IMG_4684.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Skiing in the trees has been great for our kids. Although they certainly love to ride the huge whales of snow on Coos Caper's terrain park, I like to think of glade skiing as nature's terrain park, with natural jumps, berms, and rollers. Every run can be different with a new line to pick and fresh snow to be found. We feel adventurous venturing out into the forest as we duck away from any crowds that might be headed down the groomers on a Saturday morning. Out of the wind and working a little harder to make quick turns through the trees, it's a bit warmer on those windy days.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Skiing in the trees <b><span style="color: red;">builds confidence</span></b> in our little rippers. Bretton Woods marks all of its glades as "black diamond," or expert terrain, because of the natural obstacles on the trail. But there are many glades that have gentle pitches and widely-spaced trees that give even an intermediate skier or rider plenty of room to glide down the slope. Dark Forest, off Two Miles Home, is a great starter glade. The entrance is nearly flat (keep your speed), then it eases you down through the Rosebrook Canyon amongst big maples keeping watch over the snow. At three years old, our kids bragged about skiing black diamonds.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCdI9y6X-YJ74z0f9ClX440Xl4ov7r8Ff9_n77_x-AAXuuJRPlTWKyv5V8jogfkJi4CqmK-_ZkbEBFYH125vCRG8LSObEZycb-3MUjFLb3pE1foXEEfU2MMMcHk4sO5incdmeJKPn7nhsE/s1600/IMG_4701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCdI9y6X-YJ74z0f9ClX440Xl4ov7r8Ff9_n77_x-AAXuuJRPlTWKyv5V8jogfkJi4CqmK-_ZkbEBFYH125vCRG8LSObEZycb-3MUjFLb3pE1foXEEfU2MMMcHk4sO5incdmeJKPn7nhsE/s1600/IMG_4701.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Making their way through the trees <b><span style="color: red;">forces them to read the terrain</span></b>. You can't be lazy and just bomb down when you're in the glades. They are learning to look ahead and make choices for each turn, watching for any rocks or stumps that might be just poking up onto the surface of the snow. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It also <b><span style="color: red;">makes turning a necessity</span></b>, something we are constantly reminding Timmy to do when he's on the groomed runs. Dipping in and out of the trees, finding little stashes of untracked powder, choosing a line all your own is a thrill for the little adventure-seekers. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TGbZVI9-khd9_pvdSc2CLm1crFYU6jpD2gjgUs0NKop_p40Wbx3GtgMwnJ-9McnHGk4NyP6cEh7Iz1L-LcE8NTJCBl7mLutCZsy91n5S9fQyBQbcI9eDGp01H61qbhUx90bM_bOMk-5-/s1600/IMG_4689.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TGbZVI9-khd9_pvdSc2CLm1crFYU6jpD2gjgUs0NKop_p40Wbx3GtgMwnJ-9McnHGk4NyP6cEh7Iz1L-LcE8NTJCBl7mLutCZsy91n5S9fQyBQbcI9eDGp01H61qbhUx90bM_bOMk-5-/s1600/IMG_4689.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Some <u>safety tips</u> are important to keep in mind, though. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>With the kids, I always make sure an adult is <b><span style="color: red;">skiing behind the kids</span></b>. Although I try to adhere to this rule on any run, in the trees I think its especially important. If one of them does take a tumble, it's much easier to help them back up if I don't have to walk back up the trail after realizing they're not with me anymore. (I have learned this the hard way!)</li>
<li>On that note of keeping an eye on the little ones, even as an adult, <span style="color: red;"><b>skiing with a buddy</b> </span>is always a good idea. If you did happen to get hurt, it's good to have someone nearby on the less-traveled routes down the mountain.</li>
<li><b><span style="color: red;">Watch for tree wells</span></b>. The circumference around a tree is often sheltered by its branches, creating a void of snow at its base. It can be hard to climb out of one of these wells if you get stuck.</li>
<li>Often searching for a bit of untracked powder at the edge of a trail, I might have to duck under a low-hanging branch weighed down by the new snow. <b><span style="color: red;">Wearing a helmet and goggles</span></b> is always a good idea, but especially in the woods, when you might need a little extra protection.</li>
<li>And just like when you are mountain biking, a good glade skier doesn't look at the trees ahead, but at <b><span style="color: red;">spaces in between</span></b> them. It's a bit of a mental game, but your skis or board will hopefully go where you are looking.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In his <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2014/02/sense-of-skiing-place.html" target="_blank">quest to mark down every trail on the mountain</a>, Timmy took Outdoor Dad down Jump Turn this weekend, a glade I'm not sure I'd ever even been on. Bridget and I had enjoyed the fresh snow still falling on Dave's Drop, and watched Timmy emerge from the trees at the bottom of the glade with a huge grin on his face. Everything is open, and there's a whole mountain to be discovered out there. Have fun.</div>
<div>
<br /><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-3441507125796331082015-01-15T12:51:00.004-05:002015-01-15T12:52:58.628-05:00Don't Be Afraid of the Cold! New England has been on the chilly side the past week or two, and we even had one morning when school was delayed for two hours because of the cold. But do we have to be confined to the indoors when it gets really cold? I don't think so. With the right gear and some common sense, there's no reason you can't have a fun day on the slopes even when the thermometer struggles to reach positive digits.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPgNQJfaSCeAcaeJCbmyN9ek3TuOjqWZWraYGkpninJ8p6WQamb5-FxkbIl2qEwU8xVFyhQlnMAi67mtGlfvsBTHCkT-98FWvCDdJ6fciY8L67qOq1PqRytZK0rFirA1tHMegOqJoj4itV/s1600/IMG_4491.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPgNQJfaSCeAcaeJCbmyN9ek3TuOjqWZWraYGkpninJ8p6WQamb5-FxkbIl2qEwU8xVFyhQlnMAi67mtGlfvsBTHCkT-98FWvCDdJ6fciY8L67qOq1PqRytZK0rFirA1tHMegOqJoj4itV/s1600/IMG_4491.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Being the Outdoor Mom, I'm obviously an advocate for getting outside whenever possible. The kids get restless indoors, and although I'd love to think we will be reading books and playing board games all afternoon, odds are the kids are going to ask to watch TV, which doesn't even enter their minds when we are out playing in the snow.<br />
<br />
The good news is that those super-cold days are often the bluebird ones without a cloud in the sky. There have been days when the views of the Presidential Range have been so crystal-clear against the stunning blue sky that I've felt like I could almost reach out and touch the top of Mt. Washington from my skiing vantage point atop Bretton Woods.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiH4-E2TQ6blPx3b9L0zSfBU8C20EqgMlElIiy61nIzN_VUcIVA1d27R80O2Lc-kijF2uB6jbak9qsuxL1VE2ShI2RMIBc4iNVJcyGt1CWLlVYEXGufpocTgD1sbAPEi9Qsb8CDvH3-b5K/s1600/IMG_2282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiH4-E2TQ6blPx3b9L0zSfBU8C20EqgMlElIiy61nIzN_VUcIVA1d27R80O2Lc-kijF2uB6jbak9qsuxL1VE2ShI2RMIBc4iNVJcyGt1CWLlVYEXGufpocTgD1sbAPEi9Qsb8CDvH3-b5K/s1600/IMG_2282.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
The first step in getting outside on a cold day is making sure you've got the right gear. It doesn't have to be expensive, but investing in the best quality snow jacket, pants and mittens you can afford is a good idea. <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/activities/shopping/treetop_sports" target="_blank">TreeTop Sports</a> in Bretton Woods has a great selection of kid and adult apparel. Online outdoor gear sites like <a href="http://www.sierratradingpost.com/" target="_blank">Sierra Trading Post</a> and <a href="http://www.backcountry.com/" target="_blank">Backcountry</a> often have great deals on last season's snow wear.<br />
<br />
We take a lot of breaks with the kids. Kids don't have the same kind of fat layers that adults have, so they might not be able to stay out as long as adults. With all the fun going on outside, they might not want to come in, but a hot chocolate or hot apple cider break is an enticing way to take a break and fights off dehydration. Fueling up with heathy choices like a granola bar or nuts will help their bodies stay warm. We often incorporate fun destinations on the mountain into our breaks, like the <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2014/01/top-10-reasons-to-love-stickney-cabin.html" target="_blank">Stickney Cabin</a>, <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2013/01/sweet-rewards.html" target="_blank">Chutters on the Mountain</a>, or the Yurt when we are cross-country skiing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTkAf8qu88ZJf1lU1SmgEgR7gQ7U3kyc351rsoFzzL7eNG4F3fkCp1LTl5IU0fokYEV5SVj4AlhzzGsymMxpXqxBn529RhaTRNHQPaBYgsJse1gyvDE5tKZfsY7LDvBYOH_NX56E2c0lWJ/s1600/IMG_4205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTkAf8qu88ZJf1lU1SmgEgR7gQ7U3kyc351rsoFzzL7eNG4F3fkCp1LTl5IU0fokYEV5SVj4AlhzzGsymMxpXqxBn529RhaTRNHQPaBYgsJse1gyvDE5tKZfsY7LDvBYOH_NX56E2c0lWJ/s1600/IMG_4205.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
We also keep an eye on each other for frostbite. At the top of the lift and at the bottom of a run, look for noses and cheeks that are starting to turn from that rosy-red you get from normal outside play to white or chalky yellow. In that case, be sure to cover up the exposed area with a gaiter or mitten, and get inside to warm up quickly.<br />
<br />
Here are a few tips on clothing and gear choices that will make being outside fun this winter:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b><span style="color: red;">Layers</span></b>: I'm sure you've heard the often-touted rule that layers are the best bet for outdoor play. My kids usually start with a polypro base layer, such as <a href="http://www.hotchillys.com/" target="_blank">Hot Chillys</a> or <a href="http://www.patagonia.com/us/home" target="_blank">Patagonia</a>. they key here is to make sure that it's a synthetic material, like polypropylene, or wool, like products from <a href="http://www.smartwool.com/" target="_blank">SmartWool</a> or <a href="http://us.icebreaker.com/" target="_blank">Icebreaker</a>. Polypro and wool allow sweat to "breathe," or evaporate through the fabric, so that your clothing doesn't end up wet. Even on a cold day you are sweating, and wet clothes will steal your body heat. Over that polypro layer, the kids wear fleece pants and tops, often a mid-weight fleece as well as a heavy weight one over that.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b><span style="color: red;">Socks</span></b> should also not be cotton. We are big fans of SmartWool socks, but there are many ski-specific socks out there to choose from. Again, if your feet sweat and your socks get wet, it is a lot to harder for your body to keep them warm. If you have a long drive to the ski area with snow boots on, my advice is to wear a different pair of socks on the way and change into your socks when you put your ski or snowboard boots on at the mountain. Then you have dry socks to start your runs and can change back into a dry pair at the end of the day.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Make sure your <b><span style="color: red;">boots</span></b> aren't too tight. You need to have air circulating around your toes that your body heat will warm up. It can be hard to know if you are tightening your kids boots too much - the really little ones often don't have the vocabulary to tell you how the boot is fitting. Ask them if they can wiggle their toes around. Although you don't want the boot falling off their foot while they are on the lift (this has happened to my son!), in general you should err on the side of looser boots. Until they are older and perhaps looking into racing or more aggressive skiing, they need to be able to flex the boot anyways and don't need it to be super-tight.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Wearing a <b><span style="color: red;">helmet</span></b> is commonplace nowadays for safety reasons, but they are also warmer than a hat, with full coverage over your ears. We love our <a href="http://www.bernunlimited.com/" target="_blank">Bern</a> helmets. Make sure to pair your helmet with goggles that fit snugly against the helmet, so there's no gap in between the top of the goggle and the helmet and your forehead isn't exposed to the cold. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b><span style="color: red;">Mittens</span></b> tend to be warmer than gloves because the fingers generate heat and warm up the entire space in the mitt. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><b><span style="color: red;">Toe and Hand Warmers</span></b> are great to offset that cold as well. You can pick them up at TreeTop Sports or buy a box of them ahead of time at many big box stores. For the kids, I always make sure to stick the toe warmers on the top of their feet rather than the bottom - I think having that under your foot would be uncomfortable.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>A <b><span style="color: red;">Neck Gaiter or Balaclava</span></b> is great to protect exposed skin on your neck and face. The kids love the <a href="http://www.turtlefur.com/" target="_blank">Turtle Fur</a> Shellaclava, a combo fleece neck gaiter and breathable hood that keeps snow out and is easy to pull up over their chins to keep out the wind. Disclaimer on neck gaiters: I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with them - I love being able to pull that fabric up over my lower face in the cold, but breathe through it for too long and it gets wet and could freeze. I usually pull it up over my chin on the lift, but leave it down when I'm breathing a bit harder going downhill.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-kE8G94MnQ6FkKGVl3YvQNfEKAfvov2_vSMlBS5xzoj4GbsNkOXYTbUHPuzcJ08cKHehbbJNH2HZbaSx1x0IP67J951fAFior9M47c9WAXj3ZA-w57Jy6d6oRsN0ofvSo312VDxgZxpR/s1600/IMG_4158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD-kE8G94MnQ6FkKGVl3YvQNfEKAfvov2_vSMlBS5xzoj4GbsNkOXYTbUHPuzcJ08cKHehbbJNH2HZbaSx1x0IP67J951fAFior9M47c9WAXj3ZA-w57Jy6d6oRsN0ofvSo312VDxgZxpR/s1600/IMG_4158.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Go ahead and enjoy a day outside in the cold. We are hearty New Englanders, and a little dropping mercury isn't going to hold us back. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-51603236642815761532015-01-02T15:28:00.003-05:002015-01-02T15:28:35.351-05:00Soar Through the Forest on the Canopy Tour <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJN0KRjP47hu50lrJdkOMKjvnwCgDXmxigkHt5IVlx4seR5bbDNRzhPn3S1P_bKKHrwt3RfKaJVArUVmGMDaP6CJHg3SzMX8EypRv1TnvqOqAtXoGod3SsguPB02uMNlmIFYyc_aCKgxA/s1600/IMG_0015_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJN0KRjP47hu50lrJdkOMKjvnwCgDXmxigkHt5IVlx4seR5bbDNRzhPn3S1P_bKKHrwt3RfKaJVArUVmGMDaP6CJHg3SzMX8EypRv1TnvqOqAtXoGod3SsguPB02uMNlmIFYyc_aCKgxA/s1600/IMG_0015_2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a>There are many ways to immerse yourself in the splendor of a New Hampshire forest at <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/" target="_blank">Bretton</a><br />
<a href="http://brettonwoods.com/" target="_blank">Woods,</a> but one of my absolute favorites is the <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/activities/canopy_tour/overview#top" target="_blank">Bretton Woods Canopy Tour</a>. On a trail map, an orange line outlines the path the tour takes through the Rosebrook Canyon on the east side of the alpine ski area. But like a road atlas on your lap as you're planning out a road trip adventure, the map is just an overview of the route you'll follow; the thrill of seeing the forest from a bird's eye-view is one that you have to experience first-hand.<br />
<br />
A visit from my sister Liz to the north woods the weekend before Christmas was a perfect opportunity to show her the mountain, and my present to her of a <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/activities/canopy_tour/rates_reservations" target="_blank">Zip and Ski Package</a> was a gift to myself as much as it was for her. The zip and ski package is an amazing value at $99 for a full day of skiing and a canopy tour, considering that the canopy tour alone is regularly $89.<br />
<br />
The trees were laden with a thick frosting of snow that morning, and although we didn't have the bluebird skies and epic Presidential Mountain views we had the day before, the forest seemed to be cushioning us in her branches.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkrsUKOox1wQh6hToe8uc6lfN_fvzoT-hfJcVUztdQNtOJmvrLpujqTzWrun682s1o5fGGa8-wE2CQlYX65s6yas3wslgEUBhqhbci0iRAZVzGa-Xulu_VbkSFLHiNWV4qXfcRPLWvetCd/s1600/IMG_0060_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkrsUKOox1wQh6hToe8uc6lfN_fvzoT-hfJcVUztdQNtOJmvrLpujqTzWrun682s1o5fGGa8-wE2CQlYX65s6yas3wslgEUBhqhbci0iRAZVzGa-Xulu_VbkSFLHiNWV4qXfcRPLWvetCd/s1600/IMG_0060_2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Our guides, Patrick and Bobby, greeted us and the six other participants like old friends at the Canopy Tour building, and even in the very important safety talk, Patrick relayed the do's and don't for a safe fun tour with the care and honesty you'd share with a friend who'd be joining you on a new adventure. Although they take guests out on tours several times a day, year-round, the safety talk didn't feel rote or robotic; they seemed genuinely interested in making this a comfortable and fun experience.<br />
<br />
After gearing up and riding the lift to the top of the Behtlehen Quad (without skis on, which felt quite odd), we trekked across the slopes towards Rosebrook Canyon, keeping a watchful eye for downhill skiers as we traversed Mountain Road and Black Forest Glade. In a nook of trees that I would never have discovered on my downhill skis, we stopped for "ground school" training, where each of us got to see how the dual-cable system works as we tuck in tight and straight to begin a zip and then apply even pressure on the top cable with our work-gloved hand when the guide waiting for us tells us to slow down for the landing platform.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdAN3ckRIk7qGFKCI-fZ-ivvWXLCp3Jxy7gHGdAjBgghWplyePEkJqti8_wnc_lzZ220ifT1rtM2boM1w46jBKY6K32VJeUfXrAq3Dex69-aiFxxnrzP4G9FFKf3pMay3DLHkwrNLCZLh/s1600/IMG_0009_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdAN3ckRIk7qGFKCI-fZ-ivvWXLCp3Jxy7gHGdAjBgghWplyePEkJqti8_wnc_lzZ220ifT1rtM2boM1w46jBKY6K32VJeUfXrAq3Dex69-aiFxxnrzP4G9FFKf3pMay3DLHkwrNLCZLh/s1600/IMG_0009_2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLFFnTMZM7KzUx4_wUUsGnu2LjaA4DcNi5ajg_HPca7wNSlx69rwXpz9cd9yhQdsyAIMjq-R8kd40Oot5tuN0NaszSsPvvFl8sA0msRqtQKWGu3a2244zUOvs-KpfTA3PioPSDpEptcEo/s1600/IMG_0010_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyLFFnTMZM7KzUx4_wUUsGnu2LjaA4DcNi5ajg_HPca7wNSlx69rwXpz9cd9yhQdsyAIMjq-R8kd40Oot5tuN0NaszSsPvvFl8sA0msRqtQKWGu3a2244zUOvs-KpfTA3PioPSDpEptcEo/s1600/IMG_0010_2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
The 1000-foot descent of the tour took us along nine ziplines, ranging from 120 - 830 feet in length and up to 165 feet off the forest floor, two sky bridges suspended above the forest floor, and three rappels, from nine to 65 feet in length. The zips, bridges and rappels start and end at 16 tree platforms, ranging from 10-70 feet off the ground. We were flying through the air at up to 30mph. Each zip line varies in length, with a maximum span of 830 feet and 165 feet above the ground.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPWUToPuxjvI1otNIsTj1aMqRDAnmg_DVNkOkKpfoIVTslPpP7Z9vNdlHGcL-HJOqGLwTjdFbem9gTy2gDqEgkmUmFwsGEb4jB6bw5MiMR3uzswGACPYOOP-25WPktWDoMfe-43bL2pBLw/s1600/IMG_0098_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPWUToPuxjvI1otNIsTj1aMqRDAnmg_DVNkOkKpfoIVTslPpP7Z9vNdlHGcL-HJOqGLwTjdFbem9gTy2gDqEgkmUmFwsGEb4jB6bw5MiMR3uzswGACPYOOP-25WPktWDoMfe-43bL2pBLw/s1600/IMG_0098_2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Each platform is built around a large tree with an unobtrusive wood and steel structure that you wouldn't even see as you are skiing by unless you are looking for it. For each zip, one of the guides would go ahead and signal back when he was ready for us to fly. Then one at a time, each of us would step to the edge of the platform, where the guide would clip my harness into the trolley system and unclip the two safety carabiners from the platform. Then I'd place my hands one over the other on the top of the trolley and when given the signal, step off the platform and tuck up into an aerodynamic position to soar through the frosty trees.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Ddl004K81RZUldpqm1z8uAVsYinn9m0AqD2OdFasHlesUYtZK0kEBko8sHTXec9QeJv79a6FeD2hOpLMHSI15Sz70Gu-IURHmZTB9hFjL3Ep4SMYL09ggsfUiRAfW_lkgFFcJxzxwjoE/s1600/IMG_0011_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Ddl004K81RZUldpqm1z8uAVsYinn9m0AqD2OdFasHlesUYtZK0kEBko8sHTXec9QeJv79a6FeD2hOpLMHSI15Sz70Gu-IURHmZTB9hFjL3Ep4SMYL09ggsfUiRAfW_lkgFFcJxzxwjoE/s1600/IMG_0011_2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
With the trolley whirring above me, I'd try to concentrate on maintaining that aero position, but the rush of speed and the mountain views in the distance drew my attention outward to the stunning surroundings. At the end of the zip, Patrick or Bobby would be ready to give the signal if I needed to slow down for my landing, then make sure I was on my feet before unhooking the trolley and attaching the safety carabiners to the tree. From that vantage point, I'd get to watch my sister come flying in behind me, the grin on her face telling me this was a trip she wouldn't soon forget.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIhqeUp4sutEPjt6IFE5VOJaBSPOoeUsWw9rQYNlYgjv9chhlwE0UEUREKKw2LazkOlrlVPaLn5FmkQmCX92zPZdWUQCZWVllvQ9L6ZZehD-ajOv9xutN-knQFWmgcHG_Wdt4hzfpRAarc/s1600/IMG_0022_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIhqeUp4sutEPjt6IFE5VOJaBSPOoeUsWw9rQYNlYgjv9chhlwE0UEUREKKw2LazkOlrlVPaLn5FmkQmCX92zPZdWUQCZWVllvQ9L6ZZehD-ajOv9xutN-knQFWmgcHG_Wdt4hzfpRAarc/s1600/IMG_0022_2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
The snow was so heavy on one zip that a branch from above was actually grazing the top cable, but Patrick assured us that although it looks like you are going to smash into the branch as you are careening through the air, the weight of the the zipper lowers the cables just enough to clear the branch. As I looked around me at all of the clear landings and smooth cables, it occurred to me that the guides must spend a lot of time preparing the tour for us, making sure that platforms are shoveled and cables are clear of ice and anything else that mother nature may have shifted during the night.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSejHI7go1O5eGud5CG7WYlH90l_GEkSSuafwHS7SwU7VOXGIV6GJL01GQsPMgYA1lidR7qnN-9W8R79pIqnOF2A4tnQGzwVj8SwKIwfStKi_5RgHMOj8zw03MRzG9jHt1GL2wryDKoc8F/s1600/IMG_0116_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSejHI7go1O5eGud5CG7WYlH90l_GEkSSuafwHS7SwU7VOXGIV6GJL01GQsPMgYA1lidR7qnN-9W8R79pIqnOF2A4tnQGzwVj8SwKIwfStKi_5RgHMOj8zw03MRzG9jHt1GL2wryDKoc8F/s1600/IMG_0116_2.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Bobby and Patrick did tell us there was one time that they had to climb down and shelter for a few minutes while a rogue thunder and lightning storm passed, but the beauty of the tour is that they can and do go out in just about any condition, all year long. While we zipped through the snow-covered trees in December, the tour is also very popular in the verdant greens of summer or the legendary New Hampshire fall foliage season.<br />
<br />
Building confidence as we went, the zips get progressively longer and higher as we go. By the end, as we flew over favorite ski trails like Deception Bowl and Downspout, I was eager to make the morning last and tried to appreciate every moment. The three hour tour had literally flown by, and we chatted amiably with the other participants as we walked back down to the base.<br />
<br />
For more information on how to book your own flight, call <strong style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">(603) 278-4ZIP (4947).</span></strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-55769065964657672382014-12-09T15:02:00.001-05:002014-12-09T15:02:49.055-05:00Free Learn to Ski & Snowboard Weekend!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBjMwnOvmK5omrG8n5uY09-WX_bbNZRQkhO8VE-Oa6gPnUFoLPU_WczuOc-lDrEXOVcG_dQoQuqBGzHWLZnmW1xVHcwKx2ELx_Oy_FL_OcAN6aT6qcT38GXBA2Wq0twQdjZmUpOyxzD-M/s1600/IMG_3917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBjMwnOvmK5omrG8n5uY09-WX_bbNZRQkhO8VE-Oa6gPnUFoLPU_WczuOc-lDrEXOVcG_dQoQuqBGzHWLZnmW1xVHcwKx2ELx_Oy_FL_OcAN6aT6qcT38GXBA2Wq0twQdjZmUpOyxzD-M/s1600/IMG_3917.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>With all that snow falling outside this week, I hope it is inspiring people to get out side and enjoy winter. Skiing and snowboarding are great ways to get outside, get fresh air and exercise, and have fun with family and friends. Why complain about winter when you can embrace it?<br />
<br />
Do you know someone who you know would just <i>love</i> skiing or riding if they just gave it a chance? All too often I hear people say that they love to play outside, but cold weather keeps them indoors. Yet as a skier, I know that the fun and freedom of sliding on snow trumps any discomfort the temperature may present. Maybe they feel that they have no idea how to get started. With all the gear and technique involved, it may seem complicated and difficult.<br />
<br />
But, there are ways to make the learning process easy and fun. And affordable.<br />
<br />
Bretton Woods is hosting a <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/winter_sports/alpine/ski_board_school" target="_blank">FREE Learn to Ski and Snowboard Weekend</a>, December 13 and 14, 2014. The package for first-time alpine skiers & snowboarders (13+) includes a Learn to Ski or Snowboard lesson, equipment rentals and beginner terrain lift ticket valid for the day of the lesson. Participants must make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance with the Bretton Woods Ski & Snowboard School at 603-278-3303.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhmaeFWUjjTJ5JAPM-AHLmxsTae-i6PIjrPyasMa1npbmikQa4VgF4klvIsA4nd7ONs_9X2TzoJhWmXFi6MZMF5Eef5KYEAIh4BTGjRAC4o1u4JUtekAFXIe6eErRs1V0RFyUEMocw6Ci/s1600/ski+school+header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhmaeFWUjjTJ5JAPM-AHLmxsTae-i6PIjrPyasMa1npbmikQa4VgF4klvIsA4nd7ONs_9X2TzoJhWmXFi6MZMF5Eef5KYEAIh4BTGjRAC4o1u4JUtekAFXIe6eErRs1V0RFyUEMocw6Ci/s1600/ski+school+header.jpg" height="300" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Steve Debenedictis, Bretton Woods' Ski School Director, told me, "We want to give people an opportunity to get an early season start and take advantage of all the benefits of a full season of skiing and riding."Steve added, "This is what we do best: we get people ready to ski and ride confidently."<br />
<br />
Each new skier/rider who completes their lesson will receive a special <span style="color: red;">Explore the Woods Discount Card</span>. The cardholder will receive a 10% discount at Resort Retail and a 20% discount on rentals, lift tickets, and ski school lessons for the remainder of the 2015 ski season. In addition, the cardholder will have the opportunity to purchase a 2015-2016 Bretton Woods season pass for 20% off the early season price.<br />
<br />
Another bonus: Explore the Woods cardholders will be invited to the Season Passholder BBQ in March 22, 2015.<br />
<br />
I can personally attest to the <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2013/01/calling-in-experts.html" target="_blank">power of a good lesson snowsports lesson</a>. Don't know how or where to start? Let the professionals guide you and make it fun.<br />
<br />
Anyone who can relate to the pure joy, the thrill and the fun of sledding down a backyard hill on a sled can understand why taking it one step further and learning how to ski or ride can be an addictive pastime; one that makes you forget about the temperature and instead makes you want to play outside until your legs just won't carry you up (or down) the hill one more time. Let your friends know - this is a great opportunity to try skiing or riding.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-27284856708333461102014-12-04T12:46:00.000-05:002014-12-04T12:48:05.854-05:00Holiday Tea Time with Mrs. Claus<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:PixelsPerInch>96</o:PixelsPerInch>
<o:TargetScreenSize>800x600</o:TargetScreenSize>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment--><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With a pre-Thanksgiving snowfall blanketing the slopes of Bretton Woods, we were ready this weekend to embrace the holiday season. Following some spectacular fresh snow runs down the mountain, the kids and I visited one of the most magically decorated holiday venues: <a href="http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/bretton-woods-mount-washington" target="_blank">The Omni Mount Washington Hotel</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlv4oUos0V5odDIdwriB_GKB6WJd8wIzyn1ZQjA8M0fK-12TJxQmNvU1E8rl64_6iipw-2K7L4y11QT3MMCWUUa2_yoNiRxRgTzdMLu3jtNx3rT7xaYkYyIqywsPX0hR-36TQcGHtQcWmF/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlv4oUos0V5odDIdwriB_GKB6WJd8wIzyn1ZQjA8M0fK-12TJxQmNvU1E8rl64_6iipw-2K7L4y11QT3MMCWUUa2_yoNiRxRgTzdMLu3jtNx3rT7xaYkYyIqywsPX0hR-36TQcGHtQcWmF/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Set at the base of the stunning 6,288-foot Mount Washington,
the highest peak in the Northeast, the Omni Mount Washington Hotel is a picture-perfect backdrop for families
looking to celebrate the holidays in an intimate yet fun-filled setting. Bedecked with boughs and bows and twinkling lights, the elegance and grandeur of the historic landmark invokes sugarplum dreams from a gilded age childhood. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:PixelsPerInch>96</o:PixelsPerInch>
<o:TargetScreenSize>800x600</o:TargetScreenSize>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Kids from one to ninety-two are sure to get into the spirit
of the season with a twist on the gilded age tradition of afternoon tea: <b><a href="http://brettonwoods.com/activities/just_for_kids/holidays" target="_blank">Tea with Mrs. Claus</a></b>.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6pLXjFVG6LQUTKfGopB70Hx1TRAv6QuuSRUEQbAzPiKGcGpq8QGCi1Gas2OpxriBqKEDvEwZwDcGZqSVpgxWNesbiKwi63rq6CLXxYh4jshIb5y3jBnKQR7VQ9TS5DOhT3yfiF6oZI0m/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6pLXjFVG6LQUTKfGopB70Hx1TRAv6QuuSRUEQbAzPiKGcGpq8QGCi1Gas2OpxriBqKEDvEwZwDcGZqSVpgxWNesbiKwi63rq6CLXxYh4jshIb5y3jBnKQR7VQ9TS5DOhT3yfiF6oZI0m/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" height="640" width="422" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The entire hotel and the grounds surrounding it are festooned to resemble a magical North Pole palace, with boughs of holiday greenery strung with twinkling lights, gorgeously decorated Christmas trees and dutiful wooden soldiers. I believe Timmy was trying to imitate this nutcracker's strong jaw in this photo.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although you probably won't find us spending a Saturday afternoon at the mall waiting in line to sit on Santa's lap, </span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;">Tea with Mrs. Claus</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> was the perfect opportunity for my kids to recall the magic of the holiday season. An elf greeted us at the door of the Gifford Room, adjacent to a Christmas tree as grand as the hall that housed it.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-96nLnx4m59_Ho7qlzyvlA82yUuEf9q8p0SjZQP5_cjIL8dF5TDCs4_eya05TarCvqIpGg6KrQEVzj_J8H0FkRL2tNR7c_1DCAo3-XEyqtivZ_p1GBZACPmbB935vXNsLuzqBJDT_ihbV/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-96nLnx4m59_Ho7qlzyvlA82yUuEf9q8p0SjZQP5_cjIL8dF5TDCs4_eya05TarCvqIpGg6KrQEVzj_J8H0FkRL2tNR7c_1DCAo3-XEyqtivZ_p1GBZACPmbB935vXNsLuzqBJDT_ihbV/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />A display of gingerbread cookies, cupcakes and sugarplums promised we wouldn't leave without a sweet treat along with our afternoon "tea."</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C-xDMl-Tx8-kzRkAVeCkl5c9312msM9JXt6-wCZHwjNjuqry-1uwqkmR4hl6gSrAJKXbrO1Mnzv8mGPaaeMIoTCaDt9NJ3OCa8-gvPfhckDWSRBNX5z4iOBxtKFHro3uvuJ4VY3lTZLA/s1600/DSC_0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C-xDMl-Tx8-kzRkAVeCkl5c9312msM9JXt6-wCZHwjNjuqry-1uwqkmR4hl6gSrAJKXbrO1Mnzv8mGPaaeMIoTCaDt9NJ3OCa8-gvPfhckDWSRBNX5z4iOBxtKFHro3uvuJ4VY3lTZLA/s1600/DSC_0022.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mrs. Claus welcomed all the children with the warmth and hospitality of a friendly grandmother who certainly has tabs on whether you've been naughty or nice.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6kHqwchX4Z8MyHV9AZ7d1_0GcyMD8cIIJt-HAqxGJiErNcfqk2f4bkkC_Ty7x5ry0oCDLM22ExTQ5gUhbcgzUyx9mNF3XddFb2gzFr3PjPsH_x5p8w_Kr1jHrE9QOT7mcDOIUyrc1C7lH/s1600/DSC_0038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6kHqwchX4Z8MyHV9AZ7d1_0GcyMD8cIIJt-HAqxGJiErNcfqk2f4bkkC_Ty7x5ry0oCDLM22ExTQ5gUhbcgzUyx9mNF3XddFb2gzFr3PjPsH_x5p8w_Kr1jHrE9QOT7mcDOIUyrc1C7lH/s1600/DSC_0038.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">She handed out candy canes to each child with a question for each and invited each child to share a little bit about themselves. Timmy talked about his best friend from school, Bridget declared her wish for an American Girl doll to be delivered by sleigh on Christmas night, and a handful of other children had to decide if they were on Santa's naughty or nice list.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT29MSWj2d-hL0pnpiABRPe1JlpLKMBigNIoIYS4lSjMZb527iRHN4Tl30TNxElgE7gtAlgaw47Onab0qGkl5PPjuetQRTKKOTpZ2oEu_esxif4KAb8yInHP-8F-HwWwnLZ6KMmDN6tBEc/s1600/DSC_0040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT29MSWj2d-hL0pnpiABRPe1JlpLKMBigNIoIYS4lSjMZb527iRHN4Tl30TNxElgE7gtAlgaw47Onab0qGkl5PPjuetQRTKKOTpZ2oEu_esxif4KAb8yInHP-8F-HwWwnLZ6KMmDN6tBEc/s1600/DSC_0040.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Perhaps inspired by the elegant setting of the Hotel and the fine teacups and cloth napkins before them, the room full of children were on their best behavior as they waited for turn to take a plate of goodies and devote them with red, green, and white frosting. Bridget added a creative flourish to her cupcake with a gumdrop on top. Mrs. Claus and her elf offered rich hot cocoa or hot mulled cider to each guest.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wOzoKG6n4n4-bWObOvu-PBxJ0YiM1hNwKlGb-CmpO7lS0X1odYPVT12aLefAxr35og_E2UdXdCm41ZlDDLopoJAa1d-cCm9hm2vuG_3qeAR-KIyZjG6zoXI4I8jOZOPvOlASEbEHddR4/s1600/DSC_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4wOzoKG6n4n4-bWObOvu-PBxJ0YiM1hNwKlGb-CmpO7lS0X1odYPVT12aLefAxr35og_E2UdXdCm41ZlDDLopoJAa1d-cCm9hm2vuG_3qeAR-KIyZjG6zoXI4I8jOZOPvOlASEbEHddR4/s1600/DSC_0044.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv2N9K_PixBuvsM5w2NY6hzt-Os11Wc3XVW3hPmvzsR5DBMBMtk14rJsKWt1QLHN57aQsI-m_RGaXY1TXbBHw-3sJGkG6itGpG3PbfTrmwIgWQtD4kB71NSG2qeHxwrReQGgc9IvyckT5N/s1600/DSC_0051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Following our treats, Mrs. Claus invited the children to join her by the fire for some songs and a reading of <i>Olive, the Other Reindeer.</i> Instead of the lyric, "all of the other reindeer," Olive the dog hears mistakenly that she is a reindeer ad decides she must head to the north pole to help Santa. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTl4_B1FaVYsbPcqc2ZcLukIgIHrJFLQcKJBrUxSyzhf4rmPMCJ1Ixhr7FLMJtMuRZI2wl8KcUA8L2Bvnj7a_iGHZ-mlhMm6etYJEHSvRWzK9JY7awwDveLhc_dkPw8ZhIVfF4rBigBIg/s1600/DSC_0055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDs3UwkiqU6nP-vwcHoEKrvM0ohfCX3fJ7MdO3j35uBEf4pwC5KVzsSSdwnk5xMgmZ-3vvuOrBvmZm4evK3UIs57INz-R-I_aR9PrJ75C66BfPfPf38mlQdQFM6YIJ4Mc4tWntff3wDT1/s1600/DSC_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDs3UwkiqU6nP-vwcHoEKrvM0ohfCX3fJ7MdO3j35uBEf4pwC5KVzsSSdwnk5xMgmZ-3vvuOrBvmZm4evK3UIs57INz-R-I_aR9PrJ75C66BfPfPf38mlQdQFM6YIJ4Mc4tWntff3wDT1/s1600/DSC_0058.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mrs. Claus took time to say farewell to each child and pose for photos. You can bring the little ones to enjoy special holiday music, a child-friendly tea menu and holiday stories with Mrs. Claus Saturdays at 3:30 pm until December 20th. Reservations are required and can be made by contacting the Activities Concierge Desk at (603) 278-8989.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_vvwAsK8Eq7FzOWOPRxwtudTOQ-NEUX363WJ995V7GmwcODpY2V-GevOo0PJ4RTkipy3R71uFJchTvqGCL1pHVXtbllVh2CayI743GwRqaC9XTog_zdna1a9xfLWSkK9xWcszd5jZ4fx/s1600/DSC_0068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_vvwAsK8Eq7FzOWOPRxwtudTOQ-NEUX363WJ995V7GmwcODpY2V-GevOo0PJ4RTkipy3R71uFJchTvqGCL1pHVXtbllVh2CayI743GwRqaC9XTog_zdna1a9xfLWSkK9xWcszd5jZ4fx/s1600/DSC_0068.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-8PfIBdjTZew%2FVH9ZFVyyFiI%2FAAAAAAAABRA%2FW60gQfHeyJs%2Fs1600%2FDSC_0003.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6pLXjFVG6LQUTKfGopB70Hx1TRAv6QuuSRUEQbAzPiKGcGpq8QGCi1Gas2OpxriBqKEDvEwZwDcGZqSVpgxWNesbiKwi63rq6CLXxYh4jshIb5y3jBnKQR7VQ9TS5DOhT3yfiF6oZI0m/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6pLXjFVG6LQUTKfGopB70Hx1TRAv6QuuSRUEQbAzPiKGcGpq8QGCi1Gas2OpxriBqKEDvEwZwDcGZqSVpgxWNesbiKwi63rq6CLXxYh4jshIb5y3jBnKQR7VQ9TS5DOhT3yfiF6oZI0m/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb6pLXjFVG6LQUTKfGopB70Hx1TRAv6QuuSRUEQbAzPiKGcGpq8QGCi1Gas2OpxriBqKEDvEwZwDcGZqSVpgxWNesbiKwi63rq6CLXxYh4jshIb5y3jBnKQR7VQ9TS5DOhT3yfiF6oZI0m/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" -->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-8269852156028488172014-11-12T16:29:00.000-05:002014-11-12T16:29:29.447-05:00Kick Off the Ski Season at the Boston Ski & Snowboard Expo!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0aZE5RorYOdGIRACIs0pNIOW24GnyVcyCDWk1BVDAl-VY7tmugFUqR-DynRX_v4bLh4gzgWgngedFj1AOlz79T3CbYN6yLsUFrTF_py-fLrEeAmntTxAwHvlfgw0bbuYA0xMrYDIgxdz/s1600/DSC_0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0aZE5RorYOdGIRACIs0pNIOW24GnyVcyCDWk1BVDAl-VY7tmugFUqR-DynRX_v4bLh4gzgWgngedFj1AOlz79T3CbYN6yLsUFrTF_py-fLrEeAmntTxAwHvlfgw0bbuYA0xMrYDIgxdz/s400/DSC_0059.JPG" width="400" /></a>The ski and ride season has begun! <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/" target="_blank">Bretton Woods</a> started turning lifts for the 2014-2015 season Sunday, November 9. “Free Ski Sunday” was a great day to get our ski legs back and everyone who donated a canned good for the local food pantry got to ski Rangeview for free. It looks like BW is planning to reopen on Friday, now that we getting some more snowmaking weather.<br />
<br />
Happy to have had a bit of a homecoming on Sunday, I’m really looking forward to the fall event that kicks off the season for many of us: the <a href="http://skisnowboardexpo.com/expos/boston/" target="_blank">Boston.com Ski and Snowboard Expo</a> at the Seaport World Trade Center November 13-16. Northeastern skiers and riders may consider the Expo to be the biggest homecoming party of the season.<br />
<br />
Admission is $15 for adults and free for kids 12 and under. Tickets are available <a href="https://secure.interactiveticketing.com/a/cc7119" target="_blank">online</a> or at the door and $3 coupons are available online.<br />
<br />
Many people come to the show for the great deals on lift tickets and lodging. Snow sports fans line up for the deals of the season and find out what’s new for the coming winter at their favorite resorts.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHVcHS-Xuu5FcA3je57TkgKjrf03nk2p0BXAnIyGM7T59BbxkMS6_H_YnettpWhcbOJFD3HqBVS8l1qoAMSVWLB8UC67qXa9DP7qmNPA4sdOvowtsV4MK2uyQKK5qEJqObw1_x_bkJk2y/s1600/02_Prinoth_0505G_Tappeiner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHVcHS-Xuu5FcA3je57TkgKjrf03nk2p0BXAnIyGM7T59BbxkMS6_H_YnettpWhcbOJFD3HqBVS8l1qoAMSVWLB8UC67qXa9DP7qmNPA4sdOvowtsV4MK2uyQKK5qEJqObw1_x_bkJk2y/s320/02_Prinoth_0505G_Tappeiner.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The Prinoth Bison (Prinoth)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I’ll be joining the Bretton Woods crew at their booth again this year, and I think my mighty-machine-loving boy will be really excited to see what we’ll have on display. In honor of Bretton Woods’ <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/winter_sports/alpine/overview" target="_blank">number one ranking for grooming and snow in the East</a> by readers of SKI magazine, we will have a <a href="http://en.prinoth.com/Snow-groomers/Products/Snow-Groomers/BISON-BISON-X-BISON-XPT" target="_blank">Prinoth Bison</a> groomer cab right in our booth for everyone to check out. Having had the opportunity to <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2014/03/little-ripper-dream-job-alpine-groomer.html" target="_blank">ride in one of the groomers</a> last winter with my little guy, I can tell you these are very cool machines.<br />
<br />
BW will be selling lift ticket specials at the show this year, and anyone who purchases at the show can draw a prize from the “<b>Groomer Grabs</b>” for a chance to win great prizes like lunch, <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/activities/canopy_tour/rates_reservations" target="_blank">Zip & Ski tickets</a>, <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/activities/spa/overview" target="_blank">pedicures</a>, or even an overnight stay at the <a href="http://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/bretton-woods-mount-washington" target="_blank">Omni Mount Washington Resort</a>. You’ll also be entered to win a two-night ski and stay for four people at the Omni Mount Washington Hotel.<br />
<br />
Here are some of the great deals being offered at the show:<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b><span style="font-size: large;">$19 Early “Bluebird” Ticket – good any day before December 19. This ticket can be purchased at the show or at <a href="http://shop.brettonwoods.com/">shop.brettonwoods.com</a></span></b></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<ul>
<li><b><span style="font-size: large;">$35 Midweek “Golden” Ticket - valid Monday through Friday during non-holiday periods, in honor of the 70th anniversary of the Bretton Woods Monetary Conference. This ticket can be purchased at the show or at <a href="http://shop.brettonwoods.com/">shop.brettonwoods.com</a>.</span></b></li>
</ul>
<div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<ul>
<li><b><span style="font-size: large;">$59 Any Day “No-Brainer” Ticket – good any day all season long. Save up to $26 off regular ticket prices. You can only purchase this ticket at the Boston.com Ski & Snowboard Expo.</span></b></li>
</ul>
<div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<ul>
<li><b><span style="font-size: large;">$199 Detachable “Quad” Pack - Four unrestricted tickets valid all season long. Save up to $141. You can only purchase these at the Boston.com Ski & Snowboard Expo.</span></b></li>
</ul>
<div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<ul>
<li><b><span style="font-size: large;">Season Pass Price Roll-Back – Purchase the <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/winter_sports/alpine/alpine_passes#superpass" target="_blank">White Mountain Superpass</a> or <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/winter_sports/alpine/alpine_passes#4NHCollege" target="_blank">4-NH College Pass </a>by midnight November 17 and get early-purchase rates, plus get one free lift ticket for a friend, good any time during the 2014-2015 season. This is another deal that is exclusive to ski show attendees.</span></b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
If you come to the show, stop by the Bretton Woods booth to say hi!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-52952104357221448812014-04-09T07:55:00.000-04:002014-04-09T07:55:12.692-04:00The Case For Spring Skiing<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1o18v6STOj68mZQxV-1ImTB_GejE41GocZ1hN6PeACAFTRf_SFmhsX2IX1z0E5v0bXNM_N-b8g1gL8CZr708Bc4TeUnMyZUTDHM-zVIet__pTowFYkCvwAH_Y4ZaFFyyBQQTx3phKqDzi/s1600/DSC_0126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1o18v6STOj68mZQxV-1ImTB_GejE41GocZ1hN6PeACAFTRf_SFmhsX2IX1z0E5v0bXNM_N-b8g1gL8CZr708Bc4TeUnMyZUTDHM-zVIet__pTowFYkCvwAH_Y4ZaFFyyBQQTx3phKqDzi/s1600/DSC_0126.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a>Seems like we should have bought stock in hand and toe warmers this past winter. But now we're <br />
ready to swap the neck gaiters and balaclavas for sunscreen and sunglasses.<br />
<br />
Spring skiing is absolutely the best time of year on the slopes. I know this is a hard sell for many - we've lived through a cold and snowy winter and even I am ready for a change. People have bikes and hikes and golf on the mind. But why not go spring skiing or riding, while we have all this great snow on the ground? <b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://brettonwoods.com/alpine_conditions/snow_conditions" target="_blank">Nearly 80 percent</a> of Bretton Woods' terrain is still open.</span> </b><br />
<br />
Sure, I start thinking about skiing in the fall, and by Thanksgiving I'm chomping at the bit to hit the one or two slopes that have some man-made snow. Even by Christmastime we often don't have every trail open and we're hoping and praying that the snow gods will bless us with some of that white gold. Now here we are in April and there's more terrain open than we had in December. Spring fever is here and we are all eager to get outside. But <span style="font-size: large;"><b>why forsake skiing and riding when it is just getting so good</b>?</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-MyiYjGDAojARa3d9vIqNNzn3lqV0ECBJS-iKcCsOKBevCqszoB-gM4QnW13BQIPyjshvXMYxHymv_dEoinjPzwJmsyJ31k7TE3aSNUXB-X11qN2kFr6UggZyF8Nf3Vq-cPYbmJTyH70/s1600/IMG_2752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-MyiYjGDAojARa3d9vIqNNzn3lqV0ECBJS-iKcCsOKBevCqszoB-gM4QnW13BQIPyjshvXMYxHymv_dEoinjPzwJmsyJ31k7TE3aSNUXB-X11qN2kFr6UggZyF8Nf3Vq-cPYbmJTyH70/s1600/IMG_2752.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5r7zir4KKFICu5C7rvBbHXZFAT8PF56IErPr3QQTtjcLPClOXkxcHspa7fPkO7XNseU7WAjXJnnX_0Y6f919Du1R-lc59BOjnf9Es_Ac1UMPS1NWAdWwVJanp_LreCUuY1OYmf9RZRuYd/s1600/IMG_2754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5r7zir4KKFICu5C7rvBbHXZFAT8PF56IErPr3QQTtjcLPClOXkxcHspa7fPkO7XNseU7WAjXJnnX_0Y6f919Du1R-lc59BOjnf9Es_Ac1UMPS1NWAdWwVJanp_LreCUuY1OYmf9RZRuYd/s1600/IMG_2754.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">We paid our dues in January</span></b>, bundling up like the Michelin Man with layer after layer of fleece and down until we could barely recognize who we were skiing with. We came inside and took frequent breaks to warm up, and we bought lots and lots of hand and toe warmers. <b>N<span style="font-size: large;">ow, we can unbundle and enjoy soaking in some vitamin D and working on our goggle tan</span></b><span style="font-size: large;">s</span>. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRInslNxOCAIXb0ty6jSmwQTa5-fn_QZQimA6tG2orn_jvVjgHaJ91yWjBVimq_ZyLm75jc0WGfIhmiqD4D0hUSe3vBhVHvv5AqRhprwWFq_XStHcuGeho1Q2QZt_rDlRNZ9FrTXUBYdux/s1600/DSC_0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRInslNxOCAIXb0ty6jSmwQTa5-fn_QZQimA6tG2orn_jvVjgHaJ91yWjBVimq_ZyLm75jc0WGfIhmiqD4D0hUSe3vBhVHvv5AqRhprwWFq_XStHcuGeho1Q2QZt_rDlRNZ9FrTXUBYdux/s1600/DSC_0020.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Although it warms up considerably during the day this time of year, it's still cold at night, which means the snow hardens up. We <b><span style="font-size: large;">stick to the groomers in the morning</span></b>, where the snow has been buffed up and the corduroy is soft and inviting. This is the time of year when my strict preference for arriving for first tracks falls away. The ungroomed stuff may take some time in the sun to soften up. Once it does, anything that is open is fair game. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0f4zrK9udMPWSb5YenHxTSDxfhEVy75A7LueBd0OjQpGtMEme0LYT3PMV2iL1KK2-L-KO-2J0NZV-igTcspKbjk_oWp6lwT3x6H-mJ4pm3BdJzyRpUEQJtQukJHFGkudiB_srPTsi8Fcx/s1600/DSC_0113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0f4zrK9udMPWSb5YenHxTSDxfhEVy75A7LueBd0OjQpGtMEme0LYT3PMV2iL1KK2-L-KO-2J0NZV-igTcspKbjk_oWp6lwT3x6H-mJ4pm3BdJzyRpUEQJtQukJHFGkudiB_srPTsi8Fcx/s1600/DSC_0113.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Think you don't like skiing moguls, those bumps that are created when skiers curve turns and the snow piles up into bumps? <b><span style="font-size: large;">Try some soft spring bumps</span></b>. The forgiving snow allows you to practically float from side to side, and the rhythmic slide from bump to bump is one of the best feelings a skiers knows.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rw_EyjN539_VnTjQ49-h3dUT1jlHsJsQMszIeXG2JFmnf2WSb6PMSu6qtik0xssVyYI2SEnlAMhThrifPS29IptBXvxZ8l2Z41MhcMCTVxi4l-wQebx0VypOm4IBeeq5YyGbNI8Yy1ZN/s1600/IMG_2771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-rw_EyjN539_VnTjQ49-h3dUT1jlHsJsQMszIeXG2JFmnf2WSb6PMSu6qtik0xssVyYI2SEnlAMhThrifPS29IptBXvxZ8l2Z41MhcMCTVxi4l-wQebx0VypOm4IBeeq5YyGbNI8Yy1ZN/s1600/IMG_2771.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Mashed potatoes and corn are served up with a smile in the the spring</span></b>. No, not in the base lodge cafeteria, but out on the hill. The big pellets of snow that are formed after a warm up and then freeze make for fun sliding. As the snow bakes the corn snow during the day, it often turns to the consistency of mashed potatoes. We also call it hero snow, because you don't have to lay into the turn to make your ski grab like you do in firmer conditions - every turn makes you feel like a hero. The kids had a few tumbles in the mashed potatoes - it does take some effort to push through the big piles, but they are learning to instinctively read the snow conditions and adjust their ski pressure accordingly. <br />
<br />
It's also a great time of year to ski if you are looking to save a few bucks. Through the end of the season, <span style="font-size: large;"><b>every lift ticket, every day of the week, is <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/winter_sports/alpine/lift_tickets" target="_blank">$29</a></b>.</span> And if you think the skiing bug has bit you for good, you can buy next year's season pass and <b><span style="font-size: large;">ski the rest of this year for <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/winter_sports/alpine/alpine_passes#WinterMtn" target="_blank">free</a>. </span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxwjG6CnNfEKh0tJQKc8poME36O5sOORBOLYEcUi1vphHr5GBp6Nts9YUoG2x3O-xT1QEwTeSLDUO1oauDJLidiAk9kCPlO54n6tPdnf7Jl3oNIFXCa_F7yxvmc6shGVJip4zZBcKO7Hl/s1600/DSC_0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnxwjG6CnNfEKh0tJQKc8poME36O5sOORBOLYEcUi1vphHr5GBp6Nts9YUoG2x3O-xT1QEwTeSLDUO1oauDJLidiAk9kCPlO54n6tPdnf7Jl3oNIFXCa_F7yxvmc6shGVJip4zZBcKO7Hl/s1600/DSC_0030.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2014/01/top-10-reasons-to-love-stickney-cabin.html" target="_blank">The Stickney Cabin</a> hosted a barbecue for its end of season bash last weekend, and you can be sure we enjoyed some burgers and dogs before the marshmallow roasting commenced. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4EnwMnZHvRUnBi2R_E7kbTFwOhoO5_snZuUctpuTn7j7vC8gZkAEk8ZLgJSOCr6KVQ3eLJ8ihZ6kM5c3CAZMrT9RvHZIen8lvHnqy6NUp5XUZcb__rpSw2KknDfxrFcUTlmsl9Lk72jqZ/s1600/DSC_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4EnwMnZHvRUnBi2R_E7kbTFwOhoO5_snZuUctpuTn7j7vC8gZkAEk8ZLgJSOCr6KVQ3eLJ8ihZ6kM5c3CAZMrT9RvHZIen8lvHnqy6NUp5XUZcb__rpSw2KknDfxrFcUTlmsl9Lk72jqZ/s1600/DSC_0053.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMksO0l45TzeFOpRa3b6sKpHc0btcdoswx0wgFajyBXgiFUoK2poDto0kJuObhFrcmn1Tw1dMY9mYjS3UcCspQJK1BneNNsuSUC2Ky8QK_iA4phtVayEPtG5dLDP_xPROiwBt0XT6d-Llg/s1600/DSC_0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMksO0l45TzeFOpRa3b6sKpHc0btcdoswx0wgFajyBXgiFUoK2poDto0kJuObhFrcmn1Tw1dMY9mYjS3UcCspQJK1BneNNsuSUC2Ky8QK_iA4phtVayEPtG5dLDP_xPROiwBt0XT6d-Llg/s1600/DSC_0059.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsdGNIRXfq15-19rrTGJ1j77Xs3w2mJxvI6TiLsdwm5PplDO87KJ1KKWpzU57K1Q_12DC_sNm_huXfhWi5Drji1pwnkWZTPJ_KNOS9ZBbzJSE3OTHOgxQLzoRTbe4W6WuMJjgDa6KeVsX/s1600/DSC_0079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsdGNIRXfq15-19rrTGJ1j77Xs3w2mJxvI6TiLsdwm5PplDO87KJ1KKWpzU57K1Q_12DC_sNm_huXfhWi5Drji1pwnkWZTPJ_KNOS9ZBbzJSE3OTHOgxQLzoRTbe4W6WuMJjgDa6KeVsX/s1600/DSC_0079.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2FUGwkMWFtjc4icX1apL1LnlF5A0dehLwlbsdzJmVxSvYhBxWu-_is6e-YyuIA8zBA5HikDsAHCSd0D-AGj-2V3RqnyM54BGnBk_oNL-4R637Jad-VkrBXubRAbtwSMpWvd7eWOMG4Ssq/s1600/DSC_0081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2FUGwkMWFtjc4icX1apL1LnlF5A0dehLwlbsdzJmVxSvYhBxWu-_is6e-YyuIA8zBA5HikDsAHCSd0D-AGj-2V3RqnyM54BGnBk_oNL-4R637Jad-VkrBXubRAbtwSMpWvd7eWOMG4Ssq/s1600/DSC_0081.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Our friend and trusted ski instructor Susan brought her three-year-old daughter out to the cabin for the first time, and she had a blast. She cruised right up the T-bar without batting an eye, and after lunch followed Timmy fearlessly into the glades. As I've said before, <b><span style="font-size: large;">there's something about the <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2012/12/the-power-of-kid-posse.html" target="_blank">kid posse</a> that makes everything fun. </span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKOmdAhe1YT9A7Vq4vxWRfwrHPR97uwsR1NECWzAFWtmLoQ-nVoPXlXkgXzeVsBtwRpmFApgEH1maMrVzA5BxIb1ltT64xy71KQxhDSZcOJD87QtFEkjgxm9O2f1CULZj0954FAosz5Tcq/s1600/DSC_0037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKOmdAhe1YT9A7Vq4vxWRfwrHPR97uwsR1NECWzAFWtmLoQ-nVoPXlXkgXzeVsBtwRpmFApgEH1maMrVzA5BxIb1ltT64xy71KQxhDSZcOJD87QtFEkjgxm9O2f1CULZj0954FAosz5Tcq/s1600/DSC_0037.JPG" height="320" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
Don't worry, your bicycle and your golf clubs will still be waiting for you when the season ends, and unfortunately, it's going to end all too quickly. We are going to savor every moment.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHlk_QIRyMHRB0sgMo9OovEoLcas_1dvC3k7ICkMuvRF-HS-SUnu_RbJSFqKa-Biv-7_KYz9MEHyx7pTIKFCSiqbeWJOmKvRi6nL9CIVwTmrpJJWqKGPCM4ueYWmL76EDlbYp-koCMMeX/s1600/DSC_0124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHlk_QIRyMHRB0sgMo9OovEoLcas_1dvC3k7ICkMuvRF-HS-SUnu_RbJSFqKa-Biv-7_KYz9MEHyx7pTIKFCSiqbeWJOmKvRi6nL9CIVwTmrpJJWqKGPCM4ueYWmL76EDlbYp-koCMMeX/s1600/DSC_0124.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-87906839179657987312014-03-18T14:24:00.000-04:002014-03-22T08:35:33.889-04:00Fresh Air, Family and Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of our favorite things to do is share all of the fun we have in the winter with family and friends. A few weeks ago we got to share some of our favorite winter activities, cross-country skiing and tubing, with the kids' grandparents. If you are looking for some truly affordable fun with little or no learning curve, here's your answer. Fresh air, exercise, and time with family was exactly what we needed to remind us just how lucky we are to have this winter playground. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSqV9w1eOa-F5EfPCpZJLNiJKjxMlbK49ERejL6h_lP9hB2UyzobBbNFOe0cJoo2t8u6hJ0F6nzWnZ7kdG8Mx4XTSk4GmKRoD8EKseNkh5a6XrpM6SGBm1vrjo82iiYHlzvwxLCj3z3LW/s1600/DSC_0024+-+Version+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSqV9w1eOa-F5EfPCpZJLNiJKjxMlbK49ERejL6h_lP9hB2UyzobBbNFOe0cJoo2t8u6hJ0F6nzWnZ7kdG8Mx4XTSk4GmKRoD8EKseNkh5a6XrpM6SGBm1vrjo82iiYHlzvwxLCj3z3LW/s1600/DSC_0024+-+Version+2.JPG" height="272" width="400"></a></div>
I loved to see their thrilled smiles as they plummeted down the tubing slope. <br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVf2SK4KX7XOH5TjvYM5eWWpC5yghC2wdtRR-6oSiSZaarcqG96fGPXoJnBWQTlpHHnU3JdqTCE410PZhWYra6DMu6qnsIdpDmBtSSE2gwaJqNXKe_Uq8Kihytbx_bpX0Qd8937fMhZdnC/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVf2SK4KX7XOH5TjvYM5eWWpC5yghC2wdtRR-6oSiSZaarcqG96fGPXoJnBWQTlpHHnU3JdqTCE410PZhWYra6DMu6qnsIdpDmBtSSE2gwaJqNXKe_Uq8Kihytbx_bpX0Qd8937fMhZdnC/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG" height="265" width="400"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div>
<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7PodaPoz8Bftc-cCsmS2JHjPy47O4g7ieBc6chkU-4J628rnizNOV1mcQkqUbSTkCwsne6gishuQgsW5xw7111rFGTrr4zPU7o082aZ59FLQVxsPYUClJ7e8iE2dPJr1-f-zZP6-LmvR/s1600/DSC_0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7PodaPoz8Bftc-cCsmS2JHjPy47O4g7ieBc6chkU-4J628rnizNOV1mcQkqUbSTkCwsne6gishuQgsW5xw7111rFGTrr4zPU7o082aZ59FLQVxsPYUClJ7e8iE2dPJr1-f-zZP6-LmvR/s1600/DSC_0056.JPG" height="265" width="400"></a></div>
For the grand finale, both kids slid down with Outdoor Dad. All that weight put together gave them a lot of momentum to fly down the hill!<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5fFBrYZ6sfeAW7z6mHGjKOK4ho5CKCi3nZ_FLTCZ_BD47ARKea_C0SELfRIqQwSQzzZhSSNxDhGIdoNg3ITIGJGfJIKo6dU445bOlfXeOLiBpuft-LfRbBVY3uPBRQGW2KeN33BgscWU/s1600/DSC_0076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5fFBrYZ6sfeAW7z6mHGjKOK4ho5CKCi3nZ_FLTCZ_BD47ARKea_C0SELfRIqQwSQzzZhSSNxDhGIdoNg3ITIGJGfJIKo6dU445bOlfXeOLiBpuft-LfRbBVY3uPBRQGW2KeN33BgscWU/s1600/DSC_0076.JPG" height="265" width="400"></a></div>
Before tubing, we did a short loop around the perimeter trail with the kids' grandparents. <br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQZOhjw7pc3gsev-BiWO53aX5wzUICLQDp_ZOoxGRGdeFBOPA-TqB59ke-1k71NznhK8aJLtjie2gJfvoVzJTGwfMbvHWj4Y8cSx7Ykw7iN57A7TNQyayeU9zNIIVIlqyyUSPamffS-de1/s1600/IMG_2603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQZOhjw7pc3gsev-BiWO53aX5wzUICLQDp_ZOoxGRGdeFBOPA-TqB59ke-1k71NznhK8aJLtjie2gJfvoVzJTGwfMbvHWj4Y8cSx7Ykw7iN57A7TNQyayeU9zNIIVIlqyyUSPamffS-de1/s1600/IMG_2603.jpg" height="400" width="298"></a></div>
Timmy was so excited to have real cross-country ski equipment for the first time. We had bought skis, boots, bindings and poles for big sister Bridget last year, but now Timmy wanted more than just the plastic skis that strapped on to his boots. So we gave Him Bridget's gear from last year and rented her a setup for the day. <br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7efsp1i4pKa_0pHuZ8xmgURmYe1at3A9QK5A8DRw97jSLKV_2AGmsOVM_WKG-wWesZzdMRS4VUMCKFUormmBC3VUSNatoBc7Wh5IsI8cvpQC9YFviwsUweEcuBgC62vQ4NfS9Ay6_Cov6/s1600/IMG_2605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7efsp1i4pKa_0pHuZ8xmgURmYe1at3A9QK5A8DRw97jSLKV_2AGmsOVM_WKG-wWesZzdMRS4VUMCKFUormmBC3VUSNatoBc7Wh5IsI8cvpQC9YFviwsUweEcuBgC62vQ4NfS9Ay6_Cov6/s1600/IMG_2605.jpg" height="400" width="298"></a></div>
Timmy was thrilled to have poles, too!<br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBa-_if3qc5gSS0HUId7F8P0K8P-7AcoNmvlYkjd5JSTPzL5Iq1JxtBBuHhkIa_BDLW59Gh6SBrnYDMdMsd67LNC-1pThCOcEmi2rCPE1lRhzSgwrHmkY-A9JoAgCvUazL_67H1dAck2t/s1600/IMG_2615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigBa-_if3qc5gSS0HUId7F8P0K8P-7AcoNmvlYkjd5JSTPzL5Iq1JxtBBuHhkIa_BDLW59Gh6SBrnYDMdMsd67LNC-1pThCOcEmi2rCPE1lRhzSgwrHmkY-A9JoAgCvUazL_67H1dAck2t/s1600/IMG_2615.jpg" height="400" width="298"></a></div>
And sometimes, you just have to go slow, enjoy the fresh air, and let the little guy lead at his own pace. <br>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7DZSMHI25SOqHQqEvQJRxWk7H8s-1ReClA2NuyTYWfQjDTgpl-YiqoyrRNtJUk3Lbtc3SKvd3xg5bCP_Fk-MjmYmhwdUW7oIVgaQZ5Nd6Kjdbc0nDpbD7smEdrnjfGpnhl7lc1CUTRKmi/s1600/IMG_2616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7DZSMHI25SOqHQqEvQJRxWk7H8s-1ReClA2NuyTYWfQjDTgpl-YiqoyrRNtJUk3Lbtc3SKvd3xg5bCP_Fk-MjmYmhwdUW7oIVgaQZ5Nd6Kjdbc0nDpbD7smEdrnjfGpnhl7lc1CUTRKmi/s1600/IMG_2616.jpg" height="400" width="298"></a></div>Sometimes I have to fight back that instinct to get somewhere quickly and just appreciate the fact that we are outside, together, getting some exercise, and enjoying each other's company. We watched for wildlife and saw rabbit tracks in the snow. Timmy started to get the feel for the different balance you need on Nordic skis compared to alpine. And when we did want to get somewhere, there was always the siren call of hot chocolate waiting for us in the lodge. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-25715056974035012252014-03-07T10:21:00.000-05:002014-03-07T10:21:11.221-05:00Little Ripper Dream Job: Alpine Groomer<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0W8nTLUPrIeOfIJcA6b3Re-BRKociWky35_iTMQQHV8xKUxnlU8Opey4eI2GUomu2jlazEcqadMd99VAFM2gXjL50olzBwd-oGEuzbKzSiC4KBoDwOPvtLwV9oK41R-0iCnvYGP-R3GF/s1600/DSC_0052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW0W8nTLUPrIeOfIJcA6b3Re-BRKociWky35_iTMQQHV8xKUxnlU8Opey4eI2GUomu2jlazEcqadMd99VAFM2gXjL50olzBwd-oGEuzbKzSiC4KBoDwOPvtLwV9oK41R-0iCnvYGP-R3GF/s1600/DSC_0052.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a>"This is going to be a GREAT day!" 4-year-old Timmy was all smiles as he bounded into the car at 6:30 on a below-zero morning for what the preschool set might consider the trip of a lifetime: a ride in a little ripper's favorite Mighty Machine: THE GROOMER.<br />
<br />
We were meeting our friend Keith Huntoon, <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2012/01/thank-goodness-for-snow-miser.html" target="_blank">Snow Miser</a> and head of snowmaking at Bretton Woods to "help" with some very important jobs.<br />
<br />
In addition to showing us how a groomer works and taking us for a ride, we got to help Keith with one of those very essential "behind the scenes" jobs that makes our skiing and riding experiences at BW so comfortable: we had to take a fresh port-a-potty up to the <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2014/01/top-10-reasons-to-love-stickney-cabin.html" target="_blank">Stickney Cabin</a> and take the old one back down. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikz6OpMxYX8-aJjHFhafbv4HkNr1sbJXMt8yvbDUaebf38XvHjIwnSjljtvKd-hmci1WL5s8UCAkahxIFbM8XQ9AhFmflePUGiOE-hOpl9DJwglJeQixpfZ4Y7lRMY9BjCSaq2aqE8_f9w/s1600/DSC_0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikz6OpMxYX8-aJjHFhafbv4HkNr1sbJXMt8yvbDUaebf38XvHjIwnSjljtvKd-hmci1WL5s8UCAkahxIFbM8XQ9AhFmflePUGiOE-hOpl9DJwglJeQixpfZ4Y7lRMY9BjCSaq2aqE8_f9w/s1600/DSC_0028.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
Keith had the port-a-potty attached to the front blade of the groomer with a frame around the porto that had hooks to hold onto the blade. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIyzICNDYcOKEcN8UGJERD_OO36Z0K7pbun_7ih_bYPDNSL9IQ1XeF1qTDZSl9jux2rep6gziEwlb69ruOf9LdCfUKZgZaR3_PsjF8vi3y9d0LSvL2ElAulrtlSYekKfGGgw36R1cNbAtE/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIyzICNDYcOKEcN8UGJERD_OO36Z0K7pbun_7ih_bYPDNSL9IQ1XeF1qTDZSl9jux2rep6gziEwlb69ruOf9LdCfUKZgZaR3_PsjF8vi3y9d0LSvL2ElAulrtlSYekKfGGgw36R1cNbAtE/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
As we lumbered up Two Miles Home trail towards the Cabin, Keith showed Timmy all of the different controls that make this multi-hundred-thousand dollar machine create that dreamy surface skiers and riders call corduroy. Keith told us, "when corduroy freezes up and sets it creates that 'squeak-squeak' under your skis."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqsMdQfuH4wbjhh19am1mtgrWpAkJ2VyM8NBFS1lTkz3GHMQxAGFNwxbhwyST7Q4FqxraM4eUssmeHhjcg_uoNSagKsouMVn2f_5OrAI_-D51kYJMjl98PI4hnfs3pn-T2zJ1Tj2oqDyf/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqsMdQfuH4wbjhh19am1mtgrWpAkJ2VyM8NBFS1lTkz3GHMQxAGFNwxbhwyST7Q4FqxraM4eUssmeHhjcg_uoNSagKsouMVn2f_5OrAI_-D51kYJMjl98PI4hnfs3pn-T2zJ1Tj2oqDyf/s1600/DSC_0032.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
In addition to the very warm and comfortable cab that we were sitting in, Keith told us about the other main parts of the groomer. In the front, the blade plows down all of the bumps and moguls we create as ski down the mountain. Underneath us, the giant comb provided traction for us as we climbed up the slope. And the tiller dragging behind us churns up the snow and presses it into corduroy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhPa14cwGgRlvCQS_qmI2S7Am9RvKJYV0PQJj6O7EOgTmUWfWqzDdi2AXYLLP8eUZQ_qOqqYVggLOZHNHJy5s2MhOwVG58KkXqY6yEHpL8UyfCHuz6Ar2tOpzLiDNOM8crG0dixyCYszA/s1600/DSC_0049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrhPa14cwGgRlvCQS_qmI2S7Am9RvKJYV0PQJj6O7EOgTmUWfWqzDdi2AXYLLP8eUZQ_qOqqYVggLOZHNHJy5s2MhOwVG58KkXqY6yEHpL8UyfCHuz6Ar2tOpzLiDNOM8crG0dixyCYszA/s1600/DSC_0049.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
Since the porto was directly in front of us, Keith asked Timmy to "keep an eye out for trees" that he might not see on his right side. We also watched for animal tracks. Timmy was happy to find out that at night, when they are out all night grooming, they also have to watch out for animals like moose and deer that might be out on the trails. Timmy chattered away as we approached the Cabin, explaining that since Waumbeck was Mommy's favorite trail, it was his, too.<br />
<br />
Bretton Woods alpine has five groomers in their fleet, and they use at least three of them each night to groom their 341 acres of trails. "We start around 5:00 each evening, and it takes all night to get every trail ready for the next day" he said.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOUkf5CP34yySdHpqJNaRx-sYjOkegC3VzGyqyAbrY6fqhLHU45rzaEI-JQxw5eY4GpHJPJijjPj4xutV3Yv9YWAc4P2QJDuL9Al0mey3l9oMP8JAcutNgH6bgrb_95ZHPl4K-PQ130FF_/s1600/DSC_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOUkf5CP34yySdHpqJNaRx-sYjOkegC3VzGyqyAbrY6fqhLHU45rzaEI-JQxw5eY4GpHJPJijjPj4xutV3Yv9YWAc4P2QJDuL9Al0mey3l9oMP8JAcutNgH6bgrb_95ZHPl4K-PQ130FF_/s1600/DSC_0058.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After our important errand with the porto was complete, Keith treated us to a ride up Waumbeck, one of the steepest trails on the mountain. The big <a href="http://en.prinoth.com/Snow-groomers" target="_blank">Prinoth</a> cruised smoothly all the way up without hesitation. We stopped to see some big cat tracks along the side of Joseph's Run that we guessed we probably fisher cat. On the way back down Range View, Keith let Timmy use the joystick to move the blade and its "ears" to see how he adjusts it to smooth the snow.<br />
<br />
Although Keith and his crew are big strong guys who can work on all kinds of machinery, it's still apparent that this is a labor of love for them. Keith spends most of his time managing the snowmaking systems at Bretton Woods, but he said, "this used to be one of my favorite jobs." And knowing that they are out all night long, all season long, means some sacrifices. Jenn, Keith's wife, often refers to herself as a "snowmaking widow" in those peaks months of the year when there's snow to be made and groomed.<br />
<br />
It's easy to see why <a href="http://www.skinet.com/ski/galleries/2014-best-ski-resorts-east?i=55588747&s=12" target="_blank">SKI Magazine</a> readers rated Bretton Woods as No. 1 in the East for Snow and Grooming.<br />
<br />
Our early morning adventure surely made an impression on little Timmy. On our way back to the base lodge to begin our ski day, Timmy reported: "I know what I want to be when I grow up, Mommy. I want to work at Bretton Woods and I want to be a groomer."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUreCrJSaag17MzIxpBUve_KHNVapFTYvjh_P_DQdrN56frDFEPS1jAUgO42Y1S75L6QAKFyLnA6V9MpTEo8ORB3197XiSlS7v5MtFhbPgWOFp0NaobzAra-HwycbbmqV6ktKR4nUbeq0J/s1600/DSC_0076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUreCrJSaag17MzIxpBUve_KHNVapFTYvjh_P_DQdrN56frDFEPS1jAUgO42Y1S75L6QAKFyLnA6V9MpTEo8ORB3197XiSlS7v5MtFhbPgWOFp0NaobzAra-HwycbbmqV6ktKR4nUbeq0J/s1600/DSC_0076.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
Later, as we cruised down all our favorites, including Waumbeck, Timmy explained to his Dad and sister, "<i>This is the corduroy that <b>I</b> groomed</i>."<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-13061427008899534182014-02-28T10:20:00.001-05:002014-02-28T10:20:37.492-05:00Bretton Woods Club Members For a Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicA0G4FtJ9pEt_Hrf1S4sZ7Eg5bOWxya6-WzpV6vpYK3KIYYKPh2E-o92FzBNrW_O4lWiW03LfDWnweSd-HH6ER29sGt6xulLkfZsC7gFT5zsjteOMHjlQ-e4iI0mRMegkRO4zsm7UQRJG/s1600/1.5.3_Bretton_9_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicA0G4FtJ9pEt_Hrf1S4sZ7Eg5bOWxya6-WzpV6vpYK3KIYYKPh2E-o92FzBNrW_O4lWiW03LfDWnweSd-HH6ER29sGt6xulLkfZsC7gFT5zsjteOMHjlQ-e4iI0mRMegkRO4zsm7UQRJG/s1600/1.5.3_Bretton_9_0.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a>There are blissful moments when I go on vacation and say to myself, "I wish I could do this <i>all the time!" </i>A concierge with insider info into all the great things to do; healthy gourmet food at my fingertips; access to all the outdoor activities I love, like downhill and cross-country skiing, swimming, tennis and golf; kids' programs to keep them entertained when I need a break. Wouldn't it be great to be able to be a guest of the resort <i>every weekend</i>?<br />
<i><br /></i>In fact, there is a way - the <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/general/bretton_woods_club/overview" target="_blank">Bretton Woods Club</a>. We decided to see what the Bretton Woods Club's Alpine Club was all about. <br />
<br />
Although we visited on a quiet weekday when parking close to the lodge was easy and lift lines nonexistent, it was still a treat to be able to pull up right in front of the Alpine Club, where a valet attendant quickly offered to carry our skis out onto the racks for us and then parked our car. <br />
<br />
If we were regular members, our skis and boots would already be stored at the Club, where the attendants would see us coming, and like Norm at Cheers, "everybody knows your name" and our favorite things (skis in this case, not beer) would be out and waiting for us when we arrived. The idea of not having to schlep skis and poles and boot bags and distracted kids across the parking lot is very appealing!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTI3e9z9huw6SgmeGOKmpcJncU_64TYogky3Pmp1kZkLfED2YkNSyyKCMcYkzNPXIbssRULq1whGUt3HaNKWjxe9lPt1B2S28K4XUUIc5qNsstbueWW4ZwnkgqXDYltUpup5YGtlsa4N2U/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTI3e9z9huw6SgmeGOKmpcJncU_64TYogky3Pmp1kZkLfED2YkNSyyKCMcYkzNPXIbssRULq1whGUt3HaNKWjxe9lPt1B2S28K4XUUIc5qNsstbueWW4ZwnkgqXDYltUpup5YGtlsa4N2U/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After a tour of the Alpine Club, we enjoyed complimentary hot chocolate and muffins while we got booted up. It was so pleasant sitting in the overstuffed armchairs by the fire that we lingered a bit longer than usual getting ready to go out. Eileen Armstrong, Director of Membership at the Club, told us that there's always a group of members who take advantage of the first tracks benefit, and they are ready to hop on the lifts half an hour before the lifts open to the public. I'm guessing we'd definitely be part of that group that gets first tracks, whether it's for pristine corduroy or diving into untracked powpow. But this morning, we knew that once we got going, we'd be able to scoot right on to the lift from the BWC-only line. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2SKXMrpcU6v2J3XvDzVDyiZdz8hxS036DiphW7lEBl1u-WOv8XCO3oYbUhBH-Bslx_HO-ejqI_L2j4sDcN-la0oSZC63K64gcWx31bYU3c73lHAM0-OMC7IF8BLSiws5nNbegrQQG-T17/s1600/DSC_0024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2SKXMrpcU6v2J3XvDzVDyiZdz8hxS036DiphW7lEBl1u-WOv8XCO3oYbUhBH-Bslx_HO-ejqI_L2j4sDcN-la0oSZC63K64gcWx31bYU3c73lHAM0-OMC7IF8BLSiws5nNbegrQQG-T17/s1600/DSC_0024.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
At lunch, Bridget and Timmy eyed with interest the other kids sitting with their parents while we enjoyed homemade mac and cheese and cooked to order sandwiches. Eileen told us that many of the Alpine Club members are parents like us, with little rippers who are giving their parents a run for their money on the slopes. At first, she said, each family would sit by themselves at lunch, but a larger family atmosphere has grown here, and now she usually sees a posse of kids sitting together, with their parents enjoying some adult company nearby. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE0PIW3fXkuVGM9ColOA4_BDTt44gb6HSe8rvQBuHQ5d1ikTyCIERsrjBdalvzOdBXaaGAN3G210NTgnU6TE6WP6CyWfeM0f4rRjW42ByJmqPOYRDSM8e2Lb3f3gHNdzQlIVGn8E_pCR8Z/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE0PIW3fXkuVGM9ColOA4_BDTt44gb6HSe8rvQBuHQ5d1ikTyCIERsrjBdalvzOdBXaaGAN3G210NTgnU6TE6WP6CyWfeM0f4rRjW42ByJmqPOYRDSM8e2Lb3f3gHNdzQlIVGn8E_pCR8Z/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We focused on skiing for our vacation-week visit to the Club, but members can take advantage of <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/general/bretton_woods_club/membership_benefits" target="_blank">all kinds of benefits and privileges</a>, from use of the Omni Mount Washington Hotel's outdoor pool, to spa discounts, to complimentary time on the Slopeside Climbing Wall. There are several different memberships to choose from that feature special benefits for <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/general/bretton_woods_club/membership_benefits#ski" target="_blank">ski</a>, <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/general/bretton_woods_club/membership_benefits#golf" target="_blank">golf</a>, and <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/general/bretton_woods_club/membership_benefits#social" target="_blank">social</a> memberships, or combinations of each.<br />
<br />
They also offer members-only events like social mixers for adults and kid-specific programs like live animal visits or educational programs from the <a href="http://www.mountwashington.org/" target="_blank">Mount Washington Observatory</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw17b7z_hKuvkyAN9l4reqCchxwHo7vVUUflz613b4WkVw-RRUEje0ipt-B4NfEjcOxvQ7Jv28Pq9MbSVlhnJGQGQtZ0ZTemtSbiXi5f_5YS4DzC73EEVHfuihSVs5ut191Gjn_Nu4lFHC/s1600/DSC_0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw17b7z_hKuvkyAN9l4reqCchxwHo7vVUUflz613b4WkVw-RRUEje0ipt-B4NfEjcOxvQ7Jv28Pq9MbSVlhnJGQGQtZ0ZTemtSbiXi5f_5YS4DzC73EEVHfuihSVs5ut191Gjn_Nu4lFHC/s1600/DSC_0021.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a>Skis need a tune? Just drop them off with one of the ski attendants and they'll be nice and sharp the following morning. <br />
<br />
We love to bring family and friends with us to share our love of skiing and winter, and at the Club, members can bring along guests for just $25 a day. Need a little more room for this guests? Members get free two room-nights at the Omni Mount Washington Hotel (with some restrictions) and discounts on additional nights at Resort lodging properties. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrT0BCf9A5UdfgH0DCU6teODG6JaLoAPR293RmHSSlB-s_oAPM8uT08Z3ky3UoT_Ff_hxMwsDA_wL4YW2OPREiJaTOdOSP40OO9oTH2yxfuVzPgInDmDWMj22a9tfHkqlhe5KeD-DpsrVk/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrT0BCf9A5UdfgH0DCU6teODG6JaLoAPR293RmHSSlB-s_oAPM8uT08Z3ky3UoT_Ff_hxMwsDA_wL4YW2OPREiJaTOdOSP40OO9oTH2yxfuVzPgInDmDWMj22a9tfHkqlhe5KeD-DpsrVk/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Often connotations of a private club bring the notion of an exclusionary group of people that are more interested in seeing what kind of car you drive than in getting to know you. That was hardly the case here. At the end of the day, our car was warmed up and waiting for us in front of the Alpine Club. As we were leaving, we talked with one of the members who looked like she had kids about the same age as ours. With a genuine smile she told us, "It really is like a big extended family here. The kids have become fast friends, and love to ski together. Everyone is so friendly and the staff really takes care of us here." This unsolicited plug for the Club assured us that this is a place we really could call home.<br />
<br />
The Club offers open houses throughout the season where you can learn more about what it's like to be a member, or you can schedule a "member for a day" visit like we did by contacting <a href="mailto:bwclub@omnihotels.com" target="_blank">Eileen and her friendly staff</a> to set up a personal tour. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-51636476133431077132014-02-21T08:34:00.002-05:002014-02-21T08:34:17.589-05:00Celebrating Our Own Olympics<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58Gp2_F_tzB55B9Y591cGO6woxzYX9eCJEOTi_VY-BdUUzBmc6VzZbhqP1JEVl6sWF3zi8U8HTpY_fgqTbEPAELcPCCrY2boE3gNDa-xRWEshEpX4NdjGp49u0vwUzp-mHXVKjtJA_WUP/s1600/20100301_Bodes_Run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58Gp2_F_tzB55B9Y591cGO6woxzYX9eCJEOTi_VY-BdUUzBmc6VzZbhqP1JEVl6sWF3zi8U8HTpY_fgqTbEPAELcPCCrY2boE3gNDa-xRWEshEpX4NdjGp49u0vwUzp-mHXVKjtJA_WUP/s1600/20100301_Bodes_Run.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a>Have you been glued to the games like we have? I realize that Olympians have rare talent and tenacity, yet it's fascinating for me when I think about the fact that these athletes are real people who grew up in little towns like the one we live in, and skied and trained at mountains that I've skied. The inspiration they spark in me every time I watch a skater glide across the ice or a snowboarder soar in inconceivable whirls and turns makes me wonder if we might be able to have our own Olympic moments on our next visit to Bretton Woods.<br />
<br />
With Bridget's penchant for <b>flying down the mountain,</b> we'd obviously start our Olympic tour on Bode's Run. Bode Miller himself helped design this run from the top of Mount Rosebrook, and it's full of the variety you'd expect from the iconic skier, with a good little headwall at the top, and then some sweeping turns around clusters of maples for practicing those race turns.<br />
<br />
<div>
Next, we may want to see how we'd fare against gold medal <b>ski race</b> winner Ted Ligety. Even 4-year-old Timmy can see how he would compare to Ted with a few runs down the <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/winter_sports/alpine/alpine_racing_nastar" target="_blank">NASTAR</a> course. Every time you race NASTAR you are racing against Ted and his Par Time. The handicap you earn is the percentage your time is behind Ted's time (e.g. 15 handicap = 15 percent behind Ted's time). NASTAR is the acronym for the NAtional STAndard Race and is the largest public grassroots ski race program in the world. Participants compete within their age and gender groups to win platinum, gold, silver and bronze medals. </div>
<div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcj_lTD1aFtCME4RL2lV1vjN-DnlH5JEELtY0IYkwQ8noyHxNYic7F7EMl_NskzVfuo1QJN7NZrTjVFfoxQ8JuksPpvj6uiox8OnF7R8hZciBDih5ERdRo9_Ykceet1DSv73CBIk8ySFQ/s1600/IMG_2541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcj_lTD1aFtCME4RL2lV1vjN-DnlH5JEELtY0IYkwQ8noyHxNYic7F7EMl_NskzVfuo1QJN7NZrTjVFfoxQ8JuksPpvj6uiox8OnF7R8hZciBDih5ERdRo9_Ykceet1DSv73CBIk8ySFQ/s1600/IMG_2541.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a>For some <b>freestyle flair</b>, we'll have to hit one of the kids' favorite runs, Coos Caper. My guys are too little to actually hit any of the features, but they love to ride up and over the big whales of snow carved out for the big kids to fly off. <i>Safety note</i>: we try to keep our forays into this playground to the times that the real freestylers aren't there, like early in the morning -we don't want a little ripper to be hidden behind one of the jumps and have someone land on them!<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
We've enjoyed the <a href="http://newenglandskimuseum.org/events/bretton-woods-nordic-marathon/" target="_blank"><b>Bretton Woods Nordic Marathon</b></a> in the <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2013/03/kids-and-competition-at-nordic-marathon.html" target="_blank">past</a>, and the 2014 event is coming up on March 8. It's a great place for even a casual cross-country skier to get the feel of participating in a big Nordic event. There have been some famous names in Nordic racing participate in this event in the past, like Olympians Justin Freeman and Dorcas Wonsavage, but hundreds of participants have enjoyed this race, entering the full, half, or untamed divisions. Participants get amazing goody bags, and the banquet at the Omni Mount Washington Hotel that follows is the kind you'd only expect from a grand hotel.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigmoIuRKRDgvzxWOpTdHw4225_mEUtE25an3-PgzAP8ttJg9oXLeT8fJbOSrhQdleLH3KHXlSt3x8dK0KN7BErTGG3LfvzFX5-8r_3eyq2mi8DhBHr8j5_n0CB8qZVCKDMyPbz2QTDn6mq/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigmoIuRKRDgvzxWOpTdHw4225_mEUtE25an3-PgzAP8ttJg9oXLeT8fJbOSrhQdleLH3KHXlSt3x8dK0KN7BErTGG3LfvzFX5-8r_3eyq2mi8DhBHr8j5_n0CB8qZVCKDMyPbz2QTDn6mq/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
When sliding down a snowy run at thrilling speeds is our Olympic aspiration, we can imagine we're on a <b>luge </b>on the <a href="http://brettonwoods.com/winter_sports/more_winter_fun/tubing" target="_blank">tubing hill</a> near the Bretton Woods Nordic Center. From the base of the tubing hill, it's normal to hear uncontrollable giggles and shrieks of laughter as kids and adults alike careen down the slope.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSbZgp9BYyTJCtQMdDJztan8_RLGS_Rs33bmnST1y9JtEoyc-yLZIKJ8i9TiPRjieZNODB72w4SXpSHgUUsU3srxPy9sIi-_TFgV32doBDucxZuUuo6gSwVDU6XUQaMcvhW9eLCeNQdqC/s1600/IMG_1393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSbZgp9BYyTJCtQMdDJztan8_RLGS_Rs33bmnST1y9JtEoyc-yLZIKJ8i9TiPRjieZNODB72w4SXpSHgUUsU3srxPy9sIi-_TFgV32doBDucxZuUuo6gSwVDU6XUQaMcvhW9eLCeNQdqC/s1600/IMG_1393.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
Next, we might try some <b>ice dancing</b> in one of the most scenic spots you could think of: on the rooftop of the spa and convention center at the Omni Mount Washington Hotel. With the Presidential Range in the background, I'm hoping the views will make up for the fact that we aren't the most graceful of skaters, and if we h<a href="http://youtu.be/57e4t-fhXDs" target="_blank">ave to pick ourselves up a few times</a>, well then there's always a warm mug of hot cocoa waiting for us inside at the <a href="http://www.omnihotels.com/FindAHotel/BrettonWoodsMountWashington/Dining.aspx" target="_blank">Rosebrook Bar</a> in the Hotel.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As history buffs know, the <a href="http://www.omnihotels.com/FindAHotel/BrettonWoodsMountWashington/OurHistory.aspx" target="_blank">Gold Standard was set at Bretton Woods</a>, and I know that going for the gold will be a ton for us too, even if it's only in our imaginations!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2651415050444816403.post-16077483054174102722014-02-07T09:10:00.001-05:002014-02-07T09:10:10.014-05:00Sense of Skiing Place<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1sx7E0s6CgZIdnsiMEDUl-rEFiSwo0ZstvNh6mGxPlKLzKsP-h2QWn-RyulljSYb7_Jd7Fez_v4qvJmaB5iZUqjTDZ3YxUemfye3L_XOGPGaDtn6jGVz9GIfgwSyOgYxuBOLh6fyu8jrp/s1600/IMG_2534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1sx7E0s6CgZIdnsiMEDUl-rEFiSwo0ZstvNh6mGxPlKLzKsP-h2QWn-RyulljSYb7_Jd7Fez_v4qvJmaB5iZUqjTDZ3YxUemfye3L_XOGPGaDtn6jGVz9GIfgwSyOgYxuBOLh6fyu8jrp/s1600/IMG_2534.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a>Growing up, I didn't have a "home mountain" where we skied all the time. Ever the frugal Yankee, <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2013/12/what-is-your-ski-history.html" target="_blank">my dad took us all over New England and New York</a>, searching out "cost-effective" (read:cheap) ways for my sister and I to ski. There was a sense of adventure in the pre-dawn loading up all the gear and piling in to the car to explore new terrain. We kept a mental list of all the different places we'd been, some of which now aren't even in business anymore. <br />
<br />
But there's always a bit of a learning curve when you go to a new resort. <br />
<br />
I'm not a huge fan of crowds, so I like to know where to park, the best nook in the lodge to boot up, and <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2012/12/not-so-secret-tips-for-happy-ski.html" target="_blank">a pattern to follow around the mountain to avoid the mid-morning rush</a>. Time on snow is always too short, and I don't want to waste any of that precious time schlepping through parking lots or standing in line if I can avoid it.<br />
<br />
Having insider knowledge can mean the difference between a lunchtime run-of-the-mill burger and a delightful twist on a standard lunch that makes your belly smile.<br />
<br />
So while there are certainly times when we have an opportunity to ski at other mountains, I think its great that my kids are developing a sense of place at <a href="http://www.brettonwoods.com/" target="_blank">Bretton Woods</a>.<br />
<br />
To foster the kids' sense of accomplishment and spur them to try new trails, Outdoor Dad came up with the idea this year to have the kids keep track of all the trails they've skied this year on a trail map. Each kid has his or her own trail map, and on it they highlight the trails they've been on.<br />
<br />
It's great to hear 4-year-old Timmy exclaim, "I get to add a new trail to my map!"<br />
<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDQXHjoTAyhKG6k22x4MGcL1ng2jGOccjCndiQvg7sYaX9J3osq7NUczVftRa-aG91ih21FYMKLSALWVGrQuME3T9rH-RjcSJQa2bpomBtqncoN8wSOqP_Lk98Ez6UccBt_uH0xfsnaxRJ/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDQXHjoTAyhKG6k22x4MGcL1ng2jGOccjCndiQvg7sYaX9J3osq7NUczVftRa-aG91ih21FYMKLSALWVGrQuME3T9rH-RjcSJQa2bpomBtqncoN8wSOqP_Lk98Ez6UccBt_uH0xfsnaxRJ/s1600/DSC_0008.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
Timmy has always been a big fan of maps, and going back to the trail map again and again has been great in teaching where they are on the mountain, and how to get around. If he has a favorite trail in mind, like the roller coaster ride over the big mounds older kids use to catch air on the Coos Caper terrain park, he knows that the easiest way to get there is on the Zephyr Quad. Bridget has learned that you can't get to the fast steep turns of Fire Tower if you are standing in front of <a href="http://bretton-woods-outdoor-mom.blogspot.com/2013/01/sweet-rewards.html" target="_blank">Chutters</a> without skiing down to the base first. <br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREDzE6_yKsV_1qnpbSvk3cZNfU31tK3XM3jscWITJRVsGumfRIv9CnADLBC9dJMkhawkRXnZLUByog-vkuhzYelJxq4DifOSy2RAzDpgIBi0CE0gKTo9pCME_CkowW2gJ9G7N_KE4mZi3/s1600/DSC_0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREDzE6_yKsV_1qnpbSvk3cZNfU31tK3XM3jscWITJRVsGumfRIv9CnADLBC9dJMkhawkRXnZLUByog-vkuhzYelJxq4DifOSy2RAzDpgIBi0CE0gKTo9pCME_CkowW2gJ9G7N_KE4mZi3/s1600/DSC_0019.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
There's also a sense of security in a familiar place. We obviously do our best to keep track of our little rippers at all time, but Timmy especially has a tendency to wander towards whatever he finds interesting at the moment. We've kept him in out sights so far (knock on wood), but we've talked about where we would meet if we ever got separated and I'm pretty sure he could find his way. I also know that with so many good friends always around the resort, he'd be sure to find a helping hand if he needed one.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There's a practicality of having a common language about where we are, where to meet, and later sharing tales about where we went. And as the kids get older and hitting the slopes without Mom or Dad keeping a constant watch on them, I know that there will be friends all over the mountain who recognize them and will let me know if there's any trouble. Right now, however, I'm enjoying seeing them grow into confident explorers on their home mountain.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12694013380193294865noreply@blogger.com0