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So here we are pushing towards the end of February. This mild winter went by all too quickly! Before you know it, the buds will start to blossom on the trees, the grass will be greener, and flowers will begin to bloom in the Pocono Mountains. However, that is not to say that we cannot have a huge snow storm; don't let this warm weather fool you.  In 2007, on St. Patrick's Day, a snow storm halted the region for a day, making the following weeks' conditions superb for all winter snowsports. So don't pack up your equipment just yet, the ski areas are still in full force with perfectly groomed slopes for skiers and riders.

My husband, who is an avid boarder, is very excited to take Nicholas out on the slopes. However, Nicholas is not even 3 years old yet, so I think we have to wait, but only for about a year or so. Fortunately, many of the ski areas in the Pocono Mountains offer ski and snowboarding lessons for the little ones.

 

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• Alpine Mountain: Just for Kids Skiing and Snowboarding Programs- Advance Program available
• Jack Frost Big Boulder: SnowMonsters ski and snowboard learning program
• Blue Mountain: Explorer and Pioneer Programs
• Camelback Mountain Resort: CamelCare Adventurers, Kids Full Day Learning Program, Private Lessons, Group Lessons
• Shawnee Mountain: SKIwee, Mountain Cruisers, Youth Riders
• Ski Big Bear: Snow Sports School

Get the skis, boards, and little ones ready for some snowsports. Who knows, you may have a future snow sport enthusiast on your hands, and if not, at least you will make some great memories together. Until next time... Celebrate family, friends, and traditions.

 

On February 18, 2012, I and my bride will be taking a different type of plunge...The Paupack Plunge!

Lighthouse Harbor Marina on Lake Wallenpaupack in the Pocono Mountains, is hosting the first annual Paupack Plunge from !  Many brave souls (including us) will conquer the frigid waters of Lake Wallenpaupack from Lighthouse Harbor Marina's shoreline. With a hole cut in the ice (if there is some), the participants will walk right into the water from the shoreline. This is a charity event that will raise money for two of our local Dive & Rescue teams: The Ledgedale Dive Team and The Tafton Water Rescue Team. This is the main reason why we are doing this!

In order to participate in the plunge, you must register and provide a minimum donation of $25.  Finding sponsors for your plunge is encouraged (Contact me at keith@poconos.org if you would like to make a donation). All plungers will be presented with an official Paupack Plunge t-shirt.

Throughout the day, we will have live music played by Kevin Campion, as well as refreshments available. Bystanders are welcome to attend. Carpooling is highly suggested. So come out and have some crazy fun!  We are scheduled for the 11 am plunge!

Looking for history or culture? How about some cool winter fun? If so, visit Jim Thorpe in the Pocono Mountains, for the WinterFest 2012 celebration, where you can find history, culture, art, and family-fun all rolled up into one cool weekend.

Jim Thorpe WinterFest 2012 features a variety of events and activities that will please everyone in the family. Visitors can marvel at the ice carving demonstrations where you can see works of art sculpted right in front of your very eyes. Perhaps you and your family can take a step back in time with a Civil War re-enactment by the PA 69^th Irish Volunteers; visitors can watch the drills and marches, children can participate in activities!

WinterFest 2012 will also host live performances including blues, rock, and concert band music. Children of all ages can delight in a juggling and magic performance. Whether you want to jam out, go back in time, or sit in awe, the entertainment portion of WinterFest 2012 will certainly fulfill whatever it is you enjoy.

In addition to carving demonstrations, war re-enactments, music and magic, visitors can relax and take in the sites of Jim Thorpe on a horse-drawn carriage ride. Keep in mind that most local shops, restaurants, and attractions will offer awesome deals during WinterFest. Make sure to ask for a coupon flyer at the train station in Jim Thorpe or at participating businesses.

So bundle up the family and visit the beautiful town of Jim Thorpe for WinterFest 2012! Until next time... Celebrate family, friends, and traditions.