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PACK IT UP LADIES: TIME TO GO SKIING

End of February, March and April. That's when this Mama starts thinking of skiing. Yeah I know I'm from New England I should be able to laugh in the face of sub zero temperatures. I truly believe I was kidnapped at birth and my true parents live on a beach somewhere.


Except for the occasional sprint to and from my car I will not go outside in below freezing temperatures. Spring really is a great time to ski, so gather the girlfriends, pack your bags and let's go.

Oh...you don't know where to go...you don't know what to pack...and you don't know what to do when you get there...well then read on...

I'm going to cover the left side, the right side and the middle of the country but believe me the possibilities are endless.

Where to go

East Coast:

Killington, Vermont

Where to stay: Highridge Condo and Chalet Rentals

Rate: Medium priced

Amenities: Pool, 20 person hot tub, workout room, whirpool bath tub in rental, fireplace in rental

West Coast:

Heavenly, Nevada

Where to stay: Embassy Suites Hotel at Lake Tahoe Resort

Rate: Reasonable prices for midweek stays (see specials & packages)

Amenities: Heated outdoor pool, saunas, sundeck, fitness room, in room massage, spa services

In The Middle:

Breckenridge Ski Resort, Colorado

Where to stay: Breckenridge Wildwood Suites

Rate: Check out the specials, reasonable pricing

Amenities: outdoor hot tub, indoor sauna, massage therapy, discount equipment rental

Ok you know where to go and what to do, now-- what to pack...

Remember that staying warm and dry will keep you on the slopes longer and you really want to get the most out of those really expensive ski lift passes. Dressing in layers is the key to dressing appropriately. The following recommendations are for the bargain hunters out there! They come from REI's Outdoor Fitness Outlet (except socks) and all are UNDER $100 (most under $50).

Start at the top:

Helly Hansen Betzy Beanie

Helmets or knit hats are the best at keeping your head warm when out on the mountain. Since most of your body heat escapes from your head, KEEP IT COVERED! If you choose to wear a helmet, keep in mind that you should select one that breathes appropriately for you as well as one that fits properly.

Jeepers Creepers Where'd you get those Peepers:

Bolle Naja Sunglasses

Eye protection is key when skiing or riding. Sunglasses for sunny days but goggles are needed when it is on the colder side or snowing.

Upper Body:

Polarmax Needledrop Turtleneck (wicking)

Columbia Sportswear Snow Bowl Ski Parka

Layer closest to body needs to be of a wicking material to keep moisture (sweat) away from the skin then a fleece layer then a windproof layer.

Lower Body:

AFRC Gore-Tex Side Zip Pants

Like your upper body, you should have wicking closest to skin then depending on weather conditions a warmth layer and then maybe a windproof layer but it MUST be waterproof since chances are you may fall at least once (MUCH more if you are like me). Also helpful is to be sure your pants zip up on the side at least up past your boot, so you can cover the boots with the pant and keep snow out of the boot.

Hands:

Scott Powder Gloves

Whether you prefer mittens or gloves make sure they are waterproof.

Tootsies:

Seirus Stormsocks

Don't skimp on socks! Spend some extra money for a wicking layer and then a warm fuzzy layer but circulation is important not too tight, a little wiggle room is nice.

For the Fanny Pack:

Sunscreen

Tissues

Lip Balm

Energy Bar

Trail Map

ID/Petty Cash

Water Bottle (with water or beverage of choice, remember friends don't let friends drink and slalom, save it for apres ski)

The day begins, now what do you do first...

Wherever you decide to take your ski weekend the girlfriend getaway itinerary will look something like this:

Day 1:

Rise and shine and hit the slopes by at least 8 a.m. and aside from a quick lunch-- ski till you drop.

Back to the lodge for apres ski drink and back to the chalet for a hot tub (if you are lucky enough to have one) showers and cocktails.

Hit one of the area restaurants for a hearty meal and gooey dessert.

To bed before midnight.

Day 2:

Up at a more reasonable 9 a.m. start and ski half a day or try another outdoor activity (cross country, snow shoeing) and finish up by noon.

Time for the spa ladies. Do some research and find a convenient, reasonable priced spa and have a massage, facial or manicure.

Back to the room for munchies and cocktails and then hit the town! You'll have more energy to dance the night away if you haven't spent the whole day skiing.

Day 3:

Sleep in and enjoy a nice breakfast and sorry...back to reality.

Got a girlfriend getaway question or comment? Send Getaway Mama a message on our feedback form.

About the Author: Valerie McDermott is a Massachusetts-based mother of two and co-founder of Million-Dollar-Mama.com.

Added: 03/01/05

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