A typical weekend in wintry Maine....

involves some nordic skiing

in springlike conditions (this is at Harris Farm in Dayton).

The following day, I drove to Saddleback Mountain which is in Rangeley (about 3 - 3/12 hours north of Saco).....to go alpine skiing.  It was Maine Day at Saddleback and ticket prices for Mainers were $29 for the day....well worth the long drive!

A totally different world!  Granted this was at the top of the mountain, surprisingly enough it wasn't as frigid as it appears to be.  That's because there was no wind!  It was actually the first time I've been at Saddleback and it hasn't been painfully cold and windy.  

 This is me with my son, Alex, up above and Alex with my soon-to-be son-in-law Andrew below:

 Fun hats!

 While Alex and Andrew were on Black Diamonds, I much prefer the slower pace of the long meandering trails....

 stopping to peer into the woods.

Quite pretty, isn't it?  The best part is that I was the only one on the trail!

Andrew and I stopped for a midday break at the yurt which is halfway up the mountain.  After getting us some PBRs, we went out on the deck and enjoyed the company of some Canadian jay birds, I believe that's what these are.  They're pretty use to being fed and were actually quite picky, opting for the granola in Andrew's hand as opposed to the white bread that the person next to him had!

I had one of the most embarrasing moments of my life at the yurt.  When I went back in to see whether or not they had a restroom (I doubt that they do)...I stumbled onto the floor as I missed the step with my heavy ski boots.  As if that was not enough in itself (the place was full, mind you, with 30-40 people), all of the shovels that were leaning against the wall, fell on top of me!!!  I had my PBR in m hand when I fell, and amazingly enough it fell w/o toppling over, but started foaming naturally....someone yellled at me, "Save your beer!"   I did, got up, and promptly walked out!!  whereupon, Andrew asked me, "Was that you that made all of that noise in there?!"  

 I love the lodge at Saddleback, just look at this fireplace and the great big windows that look out onto the Mountain, pouring in lots of light...I love the feel of Saddleback, very family oriented, low-key, if you ever get a chance, go!