This morning, I woke up at 0600 (still at the Holiday Inn) and teleworked until breakfast time (0640). After getting back from the lobby, I went back to teleworking for a few hours. Again, the snow conditions enticed me to leave my room for some outdoor fun. This time, I decided to check out the skiing conditions in the Green Woodlands (Lyme side). I left White River Junction at 1000 and drove across the River (via I-91 and Thetford exit) and into Lyme. From there, I followed the long dirt road to reach the parking area for the Green Woodlands (arrived at 1030). Since my last visit (early last season), my skills have improved tremendously and it allowed me to progress through several long segments (best one = Carriage Loop) in the system with little worry. Highlight: didn’t have to remove my skis (for too steep uphill or downhill). Lowlight: I had some big falls. Despite the crowded parking lot, I managed to spend most of the two hours I had without seeing anyone - nice! Temps were in the mid 30s and the sun was shining brightly (perfect conditions) and I didn’t even wear winter hat or gloves until after falling into a cold snowdrift just short of a big tree... The access road showed signs of imminent mud-season so may not be able to visit again soon. Too bad, though, since I’ve only scratched the surface in exploring the huge trail map... This location will definitely be a significant part of my “no-ski-pass” strategy for next season! Afterwards (1230), I drove "home" (via same route as I had in the morning) and resumed teleworking (1300). I ate lunch in my room (1400) and teleworked until 1715. After that, I drove back across the River to New Hampshire and spent the next few hours volunteering with the Knights of Columbus at the Sacred Heart Fish Fry. For once, I got to sit down at one of the tables and eat a full meal for the first time since I've lived in the area. We were done by 2000 and I drove back to White River Junction. For the rest of the night, I read and watched movies - bed time was 2230. Great day on the ski trails!
