Goose Tales: Winter

When we moved from south-central Pennsylvania to upstate New York almost two years ago, winter topped the list of the many things we anticipated. We have not been disappointed! While last winter and this one have been "mild" by all accounts, we've enjoyed some very distinct differences between Pennsylvania winters and North Country winters.

Attitudes Toward Snow - For example, if two inches of "mixed precipitation" fell in PA, the talk the next day was, "Whew... we dodged the bullet!" "School is closed!" or "Thank God that was rain!" Two inches of snow fall here in NY and everyone moans: "Where's the snow?!" "We haven't had winter yet!" And my favorite, "Let 'er rip!"

People around here don't endure snow... they CELEBRATE snow. Their eyes sparkle when they talk about snow. Their cheeks glow from playing in snow. In many cases, they butter their bread with snow... if you know what I mean.

Lifespan of Snow - Two inches of snow in PA never lasted long - usually gone by morning. By contrast, two inches of snow fall here in NY and several months later, they're still here! (I am still amazed to get in my van and find unmelted snow on my floormat from previous trips)

Although we've had a relatively "snowless" winter, our world remains frosted in white. The cold temperatures allow us to enjoy every flake. (As well as the flakes that fell several months ago!) We have about a foot of accumulated snow on the ground now, and I thought you might like to come along on some of our winter adventures.

Winter - Part 1 - Sledding at the Ausable Club

In early January, our friends, Marty and Danel Pietrowski came for a weekend of snowy fun. They tackled the "big" mountain - Whiteface Mountain (http://www.whiteface.com/) , which boasts the highest vertical drop in the East. We aren't quite that daring yet! But we shared a fun Sunday afternoon sledding at the Ausable Club.

No fear here... Sodie whizzed down headfirst!

Marty and Danel preparing for launch

Falling off is half the fun... right? Raven seems pretty happy after a splat.

Sodie and Trevor were racing buddies

It was COLD... about 9 degrees and windy!

Wayne and I prepared for our own descent

Now I freely admit I'm a chicken... but just so you are duly impressed, please note the tiny specks near the top right of the photo. Those are the kids... that is where we were headed! Eeek!

I soon concluded that it is much safer to travel alone. For example, I could utilize the nifty "braking" system with my right foot when the speed got too extreme!