What I ride.

This week called for an equipment review. First things first, know your level of ability.  I am categorized as an intermediate to expert skier, make sure you know your level before you go out an buy equipment. I will be reviewing the 2011 Salomon Lady and my boots are a 2013 Salomon X-Max 110 W. I got this equipment from my local ski shop The City Garage. They take the time to make sure I am well equipped and answer all my questions.
The Salomon Lady skies are categorized as an all over the mountain ski. The skis took turns with ease and their wide base pushed me through all the powder on the mountain. The bright colours definitely drew me in and I was not disappointed. The skis were easy to maneuver across all types of terrain. The twin tips made it easy for park and mogul skiing. I really enjoyed these skis and would give them a 9/10.
The Salomon X-Max 110 W boots fit like a glove. They were a little difficult to get on, but once they were on they were as comfortable as a ski boot could get.  With an adjustable circumference, and heated insoles they boots felt as custom as one could get. These boots also offer a 360 custom shell technology allows the entire lower boot and portions of the cuff and my leg and foot. This was a stiffer boot, which is what an aggressive skier enjoys. I was able to get forward while skiing and still feel full support. I really loved these boots and would give them a 9.5/10. 
Overall I really loved these skis and boots. I recommend checking out your local ski shop for a demo your next ski trip. Can't hurt to try something new.
-Joanna

My fun filled weekend

My godmother and myself on Chute Chairlift

I made it to Ellicottville safe and sound on Friday. As I mentioned in my past blog, this weekend my godmother was in town from Chicago. When we arrived we quickly unloaded the car and got our groceries ready to make our dinner. We decided that tonight we'd keep it simple and have a steak, salad and of course some wine. This was the perfect meal to give us energy for tomorrow's adventures on the mountain.

Tomato Bisque & Grilled Cheese Croutons

A rustic tomato basil and Parmesan soup topped with grilled Texas toast and creamy granquesso croutons.

When we woke up Saturday we knew it was going to be a good day on and off the mountain. We made the coffee, got dressed in all our layers and were ready to brave mother nature. The conditions were perfect, the weather not so much. It was a little overcast, but with the right goggles I was ready. My godmother and I skied the whole mountain. At 10 am we went in for our coffee and to meet some of our family friends. After coffee our group grew and we all took off to explore the rest of the mountain. Holiday Valley is not a large mountain like Vail or Aspen but it offers a range of options depending on your ability.  We skied till noon, when we called it quits and went into the lodge for an après ski drink. We finished our drink and decided it was time for lunch. Usually we bring a big lunch to the hill, but since it was just the two of us we figured we'd go out.  We headed into town to the Ellicottville Brewing Company also known as EBC. Where we had tomato soup with grilled cheese. It definitely hit the spot after a cold day on the mountain.  After lunch it was home to relax before dinner. I'd say it was the perfect day, and the weekend wasn't over yet.

Super Bowl Sunday was a blast. My boyfriend had us up to his house to watch the game and enjoy some pizza and chicken wings. While the game was disappointing, the company was not. 

Overall I had a spectacular weekend with some of the people I love.  

Now it's back to the grind.

Hope your week flies by.

-J