In 1655 Anne Bradstreet, an American poet, wrote: “If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant. If we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.”

More and more people are spending their time off-work enjoying activities outdoors. In the summer hiking and biking, cayaking and rowing, fishing and shooting or driving through lovely forested areas taking pictures, are edifying ways to enjoy one’s free time. During the Northern winters of course, snow play and skiing top the list. In the Southern winter climes golf, hiking and biking remain favorites.

Regardless of where you are, unless it is dangerously cold, you can rent a cabin and get close to the action. Skiing whether in the West or the East is satisfying for amateurs of all abilities. From the Bunny slope to the Black Diamond pipe, the challenge of staying more or less upright energizes the skier and adds value to life.