Once I had the kids in their rental gear and I on my 1992 200 cm "cap skis", we hit the slopes. Since we really only go for one day per year, and it being my son's 4th day on the slopes, total, we started on the bunny trail, Easy Street. He, of course, likes to make "french fries" while I keep telling him to turn, to prove to me that he can control his speed. His unwillingness to do this last year was what kept him from the holy grail of Sugar - skiing from the top. Well, there he was again, skiing pretty much straight down the hill, then falling for speed control. While we had migrated over to the more difficult central slope of the area, Lower Flying Mile Trail Map, he was still reluctant to turn. My girls were doing just fine and the elder, 12, was complaining that she wanted more challenge. Well, I decided that maybe I'd go ahead and force my son's hand, and decided to take them on Big Birch, which is a very very short blue, but steep enough that he would have to turn. At the top of that run, there is a decent initial advanced-intermediate grade, and this was where I told him what I was doing and that he should follow me. He looked kind of scared, but did follow me...a little bit. Anyway, the purpose of the run was accomplished as he did his turns and controlled his speed until we got back to the green slope, where he went back to his speed addiction. The rest of the day was great, as we headed up to Big Red, which is a very nicely graded blue slope, and skied laps on that lift as well as Big Birch. Since the temps were well below freezing (in the teens), they were pumping out the manmade snow, which made for some unpleasantness on the lift rides, and on the slopes as well, but it was well worth it, IMO, as the snow conditions were really excellent. On almost every run, I was able to make turns in and inch or 2 of "fresh manmade snow." (It's a tad more satisfying than nice spring corn snow, for reference). After lunch, we finally did our trip to the top of the mountain, took in the great views at 5,300 ft, then skied down the lone blue slope, which ended up actually being not nearly as steep as Big Red. The run is really nice if you're looking to just cruise, providing a full 1100-1200 ft of vertical. Since there was a line at the main lift for the rest of the day, we didn't go back to the top, but stayed over on Big Birch and Big Red and skied out the remainder the day.

Even though we typically go for only 1-2 days per year, they all absolutely love it and are always extremely excited when "that time" rolls around again the next year. They are fun to ski with and area always giggling and laughing. Even the snow-in-the-face falls don't bother them too much, as they get back up, wipe off, and start down the slope again.

True Ski Lovers.

It's really special seeing Mothers and Fathers bring young ones into the sport. I've taught beginners from 4 to 69. And I've taught over 5,000 skiers or thereabouts. In 35 years.

What you're enjoying is really special and the it's the real foundation of our sport.

Regards,
DaveL
Toronto