December 2009 Presidents Message

December 16th, 2009

Yeehaa. That’s the only way to describe my excitement as I look at the winter storm forecast while making last minute preparations for the Shakedown Ride. The moment us snowmobile enthusiasts wait for all summer and fall is about to arrive and I’m relieved that I still feel just as giddy about the first big storm of the year as I did 40 some years ago. It means I’m still a “Snow Lover.” Yes, I’m proud to say I love snow and I don’t care how many dirty or confused looks I get from neighbors or co-workers, I can no longer deny my love for the heavy, deep, fluffy white stuff that seems to give fits to so many others.

I actually get dismayed when I listen to TV, radio and weather reporters talk about how bad the pending snow storm will be, as if that’s a bad thing, and I get downright angry when they gleefully exclaim that the temperatures will be high enough to make the precipitation come down as rain. For crying out loud, what good is 40 degrees and rain? I’ve always been of the mindset that if you’re going to live in an area that gets snow, you should find a way to enjoy it.

But it’s not simply for its physical features that I love snow, although one can argue that a fresh, fluffy snow covered landscape is hard to beat when it comes to scenery shots. Instead, I love snow because of the many opportunities and activities it provides. My memories of winter include the joys of skiing, ice fishing, sledding, making snow forts, snowball fights, and a biggie – the cancellation of school. They never cancel school because it’s too hot. But the most enjoyable winter activity for me, and most of you, is snowmobiling.

We’ll drive hours, even a full day if necessary, just for the opportunity to ride. The news reports might say don’t venture onto the roads unless it’s absolutely necessary. But here we are, zipping up snow covered I-75 because, well, it’s absolutely necessary. We gotta ride.

Snowmobiling offers a freedom that is unmatched. The relaxation of riding through snow covered forests, walking along the shores of the Great Lakes, or standing at an overlook with a grand snowscaped vista is something I wish we could show all those winter skeptics. Maybe then they would understand.
Until then, I look forward to seeing all you Snow Lovers on the trails in the coming months. And don’t deny it. I know you too are a Snow Lover. It’s a common bond we Snomads have. Be safe.

Bill Chatfield
President
SnomadS Snofari Club