Until I moved to Maine almost eight years ago, I did not actually know what a snowmobile was. Alas, I barely knew what winter was. But now I am a proud snowmobile owner (thanks to my in-laws, who will be heading off to Florida soon, and won’t return until after the spring thaw), so I suppose I’ll be spending a bit more time out in the cold.
For my Southern friends and family, I will provide a very basic tutorial: a snowmobile (a.k.a. “skidoo,” “snow machine,” or “sled”) is a motorcycle on skis. In order to operate one properly, snow is required. During the winter in Maine, it’s normal to see snowmobiles parked outside of restaurants, stores – even schools!
I have been snowmobiling a few times. In fact, Nate and I joined his parents for a “Snowmobile Progressive Dinner” a few years ago, which may be the most Maine thing I’ve ever done. The concept: each course of the dinner is served at a different home. Appetizers at one house, salad at the next, etc. The catch: you go from house to house on snowmobiles. This means that the participants are wearing approximately 5 million layers of clothing, plus coats and helmets and snow boots and snow pants. Everyone looks utterly ridiculous, and getting in and out of the houses is…well…challenging because of all the clothes. Lesson learned: it’s best to start the process with an empty bladder.
We haven’t had any snow so far this season, therefore I haven’t had occasion to get out on my sled. Mom, you have nothing to worry about…yet! :)
In other news, I had not a single trick-or-treater this year, which totally bummed me out. Granted, we live out in the sticks, so it’s not the ideal location for children seeking a quick-and-easy candy fix, but if anyone wants to stop by in a costume, I still have a stash of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
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