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Living in Minnesota, chances are you start a conversation talking about the weather. According to Dan Luna, Meteorologist at the National Weather Service office in Chanhassen, December in the Twin Cities ranked one of the top ten coldest months in the last 100 years. So far, January hasn't been much warmer.

"But we do expect some good news," says Dan, who's been forecasting weather for 23 years. "Sunday through Tuesday should warm up, and that means temperatures above freezing, or 35 degrees warmer than we are now."

So far this season snowfall has also been above normal. "We haven't had big storms," according to Dan, "it's just been consistent one to two inches."

He adds, "It's tough to say if we'll end up the winter above normal because we're not even half way through the season and March and April can be our biggest snow months. The atmosphere that time of year can hold a lot of moisture."

Bottom line, the Upper Midwest is experiencing a typical 1970s winter with single digit or sub-zero temperatures and steady snowfall; and it's not going to let up anytime soon.

If we're not watchful and controlling the thermostat, cold and snowy winters can do damage to our budgets, and the same can be said for our psychological well being too. Scientists estimate that ten million Americans suffer from seasonal depression, and twenty-five million more develop milder versions. Those are scary statistics until you appreciate the antidote for winter blues waits right outside your door.

"Everything gets better when you get outside," according to Frida Waara, "Your head and your heart."

Frida lives on the south shore of Lake Superior in Marquette, Michigan, often one of the chilliest spots on the continent.

"The only thing between me and the North Pole is Canada," jokes this fifty-something skier, "And this time of year, it's not much of a wind break."

As the first woman from Michigan to reach the Geographic North Pole on skis, she should know. Still, she doesn't let icy winds and frigid temperatures keep her from playing in the snow.

"It's my favorite toy," she beams. "And, it helped me choose a college, my husband, and raise my kids," she adds with a laugh.

Her love for winter is contagious and coming up next week she'll be sharing that spirit at a special "Warm Up to Winter" women's snowsport symposium at Wild Mountain in Taylors Falls, Minnesota.

"Getting women outside, active, and learning new snowsports is part of our goal with Warm Up to Winter," says Amy Frishmon, Wild Mountain Vice President. The three day event kicks off Thursday, January 22 at the Holiday Inn Express in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin.

Women can choose three classes ranging from beginner to advanced in skiing or snowboarding. The package also includes lift tickets, meals and a special lodging rate for women needing overnight accommodations.

"We'll have all the equipment and instructors to improve your skiing or try something new, plus sessions on how to dress for the cold, take care of your skin, and work out sore muscles," adds Linda Lemke, Hoigaard's Outdoor Women Coordinator and event co-sponsor.

"Winter isn't going away anytime soon, so learning to ski or snowboard is the best way to make the most of it," says Amy. "If you have been looking for a reason to start skiing or snowboarding, this is it."

Frida agrees, "Don't hibernate, participate. Getting mom out enjoying the slopes is the surest way to get the rest of the family off the couch too."

For details on Wild Mountain's Warm Up to Winter call 800-447-4958 or visit www.wildmountain.com.

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