Warren Miller Day in Vermont

Me and Miss Nola, my fitness guru who's hiked all 110 peeks in the Northeast - 46 of them in chilly winters, took to the slopes at Ascutney Mountain in Vermont today.

Fresh powder and empty trails (by my definition) made for a terrific day of skiing. It's Vermont's best kept secret with lift lines no more than 2 minutes long and steadfast grooming operations. The Quad wasn't running but the triple took us only a few yards from the top of Vermont's highest single peak. We traversed bumpy terrain for half a day and then broke for lunch inside the legendary base lodge, circa 1946.

Skiing at Ascutney is like coming home to a long overdue family reunion. Everybody scatters their bags and personals under tables and chairs knowing it's trustworthy enough to leave personals behind. Teenager boarders show respect for antiquated skiers like me by not rushing over the top of my skis or clipping by at dangerous speeds. And, with watchful ski instructors and friendly Activity Directors like Jonathon Robinson, it's no wonder everyone feels secure here. Jonathon mans the drop-off points and cafeteria with the eyes of a hawk, never one to miss 2 single chicks like Nola and me needing guidance during our first trip out this season.

Today marked the official Warren Miller Invitation day and even a pair from as far away as Taiwan were here to cash in on the freebies and fun. They joined us inside as we warmed our toes next to the roasting hearth. Good times continued into Brattleboro with a stop off at a food coop that could give Trader Joe's a healthy run for it's money. We picked up some fresh Kale, organic cocoa, dried apples and scrumptious falafel balls with tahini sauce. Oh, wait, lest I forget the rich dark chocolate maroons for dessert. Appetites are king after a full day of riding the ridge.

All is right with the world when you live, work or play in Vermont.