Who's skiing?

Leisure Trends did a national survey on who's skiing, and I thought it was pretty interesting. Here’s a quick summary:

Increase in first-time skiers (3.4% this season, up from below 1% for the last two years).

Increase in first-time riders (10% this season, up from below 1% for the last two years).

Increase in first-time visitors to a resort (23%, a six year high — low was 16% in 2004).

Continual increase in 19 to 24-year-olds (18% - the highest figure in 11 years).

Continued decline in 30-34 year olds (8% - down from 14% in 1995. Trend shows gradual decline over 11 years).

All other age groups holding their percentages - no significant increases in 50+

Decline in married (46%, down from a high of 58%).

Decline in percent traveling with children under age of 16 (23% - lowest in 11 years).

Empty nesters also declining (9% - from 13% in 2000).

Percentage of season passholders (continues to increase to 30% of all ticket holders).

Influence of the season pass on where to ski/ride is very high at 21% - behind ease of getting to (37%); influence of friends (29%); and ahead of terrain variety (20%).

Ease of getting to the resort is at a record high level in influence of choosing a resort (37%).

Internet continues to grow as an influential source of information (11% up from an average of 9%-10%. Prior to 2000 was 7%-8%).

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

Going up?

What do you like to do when you ride up the lift?

My dad used to sing to me -- which I found terribly embarrassing as a teenager, but remember quite fondly when I think about it today.

Sometimes I like to chat. It's always fun to meet new people. Plus you have the option of ending it naturally when you get off the lift. Or you can take a run with them and continue to talk on the way up again.

Mostly, I like to watch people ski. You see everything -- great skiers, awful skiers, weird behavior, fantastic wipeouts, relieving recoveries. And the outfits! Can someone tell me why it seems like some days everyone's wearing red, and other days, yellow? Just seems to work out that way.

I also like to evaluate trails and conditions and even plot a line down the hill. Good to know where you're going, before you even get there.

Sometimes I even sing. Just don't tell my dad.

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

Help make January "National Ski & Snowboard Month"

I know, I know -- for those of us who are obsessed with skiing, every month is "National Ski & Snowboard Month."

All the same, Ski Area Management (SAM) magazine is reporting that The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) and Snowsports Industries America (SIA) are lobbying Congress to seek a White House Proclamation declaring January "National Ski and Snowboard Month." The intent is to remind people to get outside exercise in winter.

Congressman Mark Udall (D-CO) has introduced House Resolution 979 asking for the proclamation, but the bill requires co-sponsors. You can help by contacting your Congressional representative and urge him or her to co-sign H. Res. 979.

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

Goals for '06-'07.

It's always good to have something to work toward. So here are my goals for the upcoming ski season:

Get through the season uninjured. An injury can put a damper on anyone's year. So I hope to escape unscathed (hope you do, too!).

Ski more days than last season. Got in 40 in '05-'06. Let's see if I can do better this year!

Try at least one new mountain. Always fun to mix it up a bit.

Improve my skiing technique, particularly on moguls. I'm okay on a certain type, but once they get too big, too steep, or too icy, I'm out of my depth.

Make lots of new ski friends.

Have fun! That shouldn't be hard.

What're your goals?

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

This is for you, doll face.

As you all know, Barbie (yes, I'm talking about the doll here) has done it all: astronaut, doctor, rock star, fashion model -- you get the picture.

Now you can add ski manufacturer to the list (well, almost).

Mattel, Barbie's home company, is partnering with Elan to make skis for young girls, in pink (of course) with graphics of flowers and butterflies. Suggested retail price: $119. to $189.

As much as it makes me twinge, I bet my daughter would've LOVED these when she was little.

Hey, if it gets 'em skiing, I'm for it.

Wonder if Barbie's Ferrari has ski racks?

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, a new internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

In remembrance.

It's been five years since the horrible events of September 11, 2001.

For me, the time has gone by quickly. It's easy to feel that way, given the hectic schedules of our daily lives.

But think back -- on that terrible, terrible day, the world seemed to stop. The awful face of evil revealed itself, and all of us were stunned at its magnitude.

Today, take a moment to remember that even though evil exists, it is far outweighed by the goodness that's all around us. In the memory of those who died on that tragic day, do what you can to help spread this goodness. And above all, pray for peace.

Ski like a woman.

Thought I'd clue you in on this great web site I found:

SkiLikeAWoman.com

If you're interested in improving your skiing, this is definitely worth checking out. It's a directory of women's ski clinics, and even though it doesn't list every clinic everywhere, it could help you find the one that's right for you.

So when you're planning that trip for the coming winter, take some time and take a look. There might be a great clinic right where you're headed.

Be sure to visit TheSkiDiva.com, an internet forum especially for women skiers, where women skiers can connect with one another to talk about everything and anything ski-related.

It's Here: TheSkiDiva.com Forum!!!

Ta da!!!!

Yes, it's finally ready -- TheSkiDiva.com, an internet forum devoted exclusively to women who ski.

Here you can post comments, ask questions, trade tips, vent, express opinions, and otherwise hold forth on anything and everything ski related. And you can do it with other women who care as passionately about skiing as you do.

Here's a taste of the forums that are currently awaiting your input:

General Skiing: Ski related discussions that don't fit under other, more specific headings.
Ski Gear: Questions, comments, and reviews about all types of ski gear.
Family Skiing: Skiing together as a family.
Resorts, Conditions & Travel: Questions and comments about resorts and snow conditions.
Trip Reports: Tell us about your ski trip.
Meet on the Hill: Arrange to meet up with another member of TheSkiDiva.com community.
Getting to know you: Tell us about yourself! We'd love to get to know you.
Health & Fitness: Staying healthy during ski season (and the rest of the year, too).
Off Season Sports: Hiking, biking,kayaking, tennis -- anything you do in the off season.
Random Humor: Jokes, funny links; we could all use a laugh.
Miscellaneous Discussions: Anything else you feel like discussing.

As you can see, there's something for everyone. You'll have to register to post in the forums, but it's fast, easy, and absolutely free.

And just so you know, TheSkiDiva.com is not affiliated with any ski resort, ski manufacturer, professional association, or other organization. It's just us chickens.

So even though you'll still be able to find me here in my blog, I'll be spending a lot of time over there, too. Be sure to visit!