Are We Ready

Hi everyone, and welcome back to another UK-based skiing blog post! However don't worry, this will be my final published article from here in Leamington Spa in 2019 - I'll be leaving the flooded flatlands of Warwickshire this weekend to return to the mighty snow-covered French Alps. How amazing is that? My last post stated that this coming season will be my 22nd European winter (plus two in New Zealand) - but to be completely honest with you, I'm still like an uncontrollable, over-excited puppy who has just had a whiff of his favourite dog food !?!  

The other day Harriet my wife found me standing in the middle of the kitchen whilst cooking dinner, just staring into the saucepan. Apparently she asked me how long we had to go before serving up, but I didn't hear her words. She asked why the blank look on my face when I turned towards her - I stalled and apologised but I was elsewhere deep in my mind. 'Elsewhere' is also very well known in my brain as Méribel. A slightly awkward moment, but I think I got away with it. The cotriade (fish stew) was delicious by the way.

Another pleasure/weakness I have at this time of year is looking back at photos (I can't help it, surely others are doing the same?) All of these photos on this post were taken during last winter, and what incredible memories. Memories of great snow conditions, memories of smiles on clients faces, memories of achievements, of sensational views, of glorious alpine weather, of an invigorating feeling of mental and physical well-being..... Again, is it just me, or do you feel like this when experiencing time on skis and being in the high mountains?

Oh, and have any of you been on social media recently, or looked at the latest webcam images? Yep, the mountains are white already, it looks chilly, and the snow cannons look as though they are blasting away putting down the all-important snow base on the pistes. All this in mid-November. This of course doesn't guarantee that we will have the best snow conditions all winter, but it certainly gives us a very good chance of starting the season in a healthy position.

Remember that over-excited, hyper active puppy from earlier - that's me yet again trying to pack the car outside our little Victorian house in Leamington. It's knackering running around in needless circles, whilst ramming bags, boxes, newly bought skis and ski boots (don't tell Harriet), bacon, English ales and all my camera kit into the back of the Mondeo estate - whilst high-fiving passers by and neighbours, posties and any other unfortunate people who might be questioning whether I'm on mind-altering substances..... Yes I am, it's called skiing and another winter in Méribel. See you on the other side in a few days time, from Méribel. Live With Passion. Martin.