While the lack of snow and the current warm temperatures are somewhat discouraging this year, it’s important to remember that we are our own best defense against a recalcitrant Mother Nature.
We’re all in this together in this Valley and this community. That means we’re going to need to support each other to get through this holiday season with no natural snow on the ground and only one ski area open.
That translates to making sure that every single purchase and meal and service and supply that can be purchased locally is purchased locally. Every single bit of holiday gift buying that has yet to be done should be done locally.
That means eschewing the convenience of Internet shopping and making the effort to go see your friends and neighbors in their shops.
Try out the new menus at area restaurants.
Get a local haircut and a local facial.
Buy some cute clothes and toys locally.
Buy some books.
Buy a bike (and ride it because it is still warm enough to do so).
Not to advocate for rampant consumerism (because not too many of us need a lot more stuff), but make the effort to support local business owners.
And let’s make sure we offer our visitors the very best hospitality that we can. We have a lot going for us and we have a lot to offer people in terms of activities and attractions (and STARS!) and attitude.
Let’s give them such a good time in the Mad River Valley when skiing is limited that they return when skiing is plentiful and return again in summer, spring and fall. We love living here when there is no snow for a whole bunch of reasons. We have great restaurants, an incredible Valley that is completely accessible due to the lack of snow, great shops and more.
Let’s do our best to show our guests all those reasons.
