Tuesday, December 20, 2011

'Tis the Week Before Christmas (A Plea to Santa)


‘Tis the week before Christmas and all through Muskoka
We’re watching the skies for falling white snow ‘cause
We want to go skiing and sledding downhill
But instead of the white stuff there’s green grass here still.

We could hurtle down rocks like those guys in the Alps
But we really don’t think that it’s going to help.
We’d rather be skiing in powdery snow
With blue skies above and frozen lake down below.

So Santa, we’re begging you. Help us out here.
Just bring us some snow for Christmas this year.
Our skis, boards and blades are all ready to go
As soon as you send us some glorious snow.

Your magic can make the snow perfect to slide on.
Mother Nature? Who needs her? She can’t be relied on.
(If she’s listening, we’re sorry. Please don’t be mad.
It’s just that we want to go skiing so bad. )

You need snow too, Santa. Think of your reindeer.
If they can’t bring presents, it won’t be a great year
For kids in Muskoka with no snow and no gifts…
You know how kids are, they’re sure to be miffed.

Your very existence could well be at stake.
We’re begging you please not to make that mistake.
With Facebook and Twitter the story will spread
And kids round the world will think Santa is dead.

So please, you must do whatever it takes
To bring us some snow for our hills and our lakes.
Thanks a lot Santa. Please save the day.
Merry Christmas to you from Colonial Bay!

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Skiing in Muskoka

Muskoka’s landscape – hilly, rocky and treed – isn’t just beautiful. It also offers amazing terrain for skiing. Whether you prefer the thrill and speed of alpine-style skiing or the tranquil tracks of cross-country skiing, Muskoka is the perfect location for both.

Arrowhead Provincial Park has 29 km of groomed, track-set, cross-country ski trails and 12km of skate skiing trails for beginner to expert skiers. Both classic and skate skis can be rented from the Park Pro Shop. Glide silently through the trees and then warm up next to the bonfire before exploring another trail.

Our local alpine ski area, Hidden Valley Highlands, has surprisingly varied terrain given its size. With twelve runs ranked from easy (green) to most difficult (black diamond) and a terrain park, there’s something for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities. For first-timers and those who want to improve their skills, the Snow School offers both beginner group lessons or one-on-one private instruction.
Weather permitting, both Hidden Valley and Arrowhead will have terrain open through the holidays.

If you’re planning to be in Muskoka for the holidays, Hidden Valley has two celebrations: the Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade and New Year’s Eve family-friendly fireworks. Check out their events page for info.

Other local holiday events include:
  • December 17 – A Portage Flyer Christmas at Muskoka Heritage Place - Ride the Portage Flyer to visit Santa from 5-8pm
  • December 17, 28, 29 – SantaFest at Santa’s Village - Admission includes horse-drawn sleigh rides by Twin Maples Farm, Ice Skating (weather permitting), sliding, guided ATV rides by Bear Claw Tours, winter Olympic biathlon, gingerbread cookie decorating, craft making, colouring & letter writing, petting farm, marshmallow roasting, story time and visits with Santa
  • December 20 – Michelle Wright Christmas at Algonquin Theatre

We hope to see you this holiday season!

Warm wishes,
The Howell Family