The Joy of Snow
…Or, A Trip Down Memory Lane
Now that I think about it, it has been an unusual privilege for me to be able to document one special place from its beginnings, because I happened to be present for most of Stratton’s remarkable fifty years. As a climber, I don’t compare the Green Mountains with the Himalayas or my native Alps, but a lifetime of natural curiosity has been richly rewarded here at Stratton. Its multitude of activities, especially skiing and ski racing, combined with the ever-changing seasons have challenged and rewarded me. Climbing Stratton, as I’ve done several times a week for many years, I see its magnificent views, with Mt. Greylock to the South, the Adirondacks to the west, Mt. Washington to the north and Mt. Monadnock to the east.
I would like to thank my special friends for sharing their early morning winter hours to climb the Mountain—especially each New Year’s Day before sunrise! To the birds for accompanying me with their sounds, the animals for occasionally letting me see them, the snow, the wind, and even the blistering cold for keeping my senses sharp: I am grateful. And I thank my wonderful family for spending so much time without me as I follow my endeavors.
