Amazing Spa Treats

I felt compelled to write about my deep tissue massage from Kate at Top Notch Resort and Spa on my 5th day snowboarding at Stowe. She could tell the difference from my recurring muscle and joint issues vs. my new ones from 5 full days of snowboarding. I felt so rejuvenated after the massage that I bought an extra day's ticket and was able to snowboard with my 7-year-old son and take him on his first blue run. A must stop and a 4-star recommendation if you're ever in Stowe, VT. http://www.topnotchresort.com/pop-experience-soul.htm
http://www.topnotchresort.com/index.php

Other amazing spas at ski resorts I've been to more than once (true sign of a happy customer): The Vail Cascade Spa in Vail, CO http://www.vailcascade.com/ In addition to a fabulous spa providing great massages, I also had my best facial ever at the Vail Cascade. I switched beauty products due to the recommendations of their facialist (whose name I regrettfully have forgotten). I now use Ling's sunscreen and Vitamin C serum after my skin was transformed after a visit at the Vail Cascade.

Another favorite is The Peaks Spa in Telluride, CO. http://www.thepeaksresort.com/spa/ It has to have the best sauna room due to its amazing mountain views. The mineral pool is so soothing that you never want to leave it. My friends were also amazed at the hot masseurs at The Peaks who happen to be highly skilled professionals. Every visit with my girlfriends to Telluride has to include a trip to The Peaks Spa.

Snowboarding at 40

Happy New Year! This past week was my first time snowboarding this season. I have to say, in my 15 years snowboarding, I'm doing better than ever having done 5 days straight of full days riding the mountains. Granted, my legs are sore and so is my lower back, but I felt the same aches and pains when I first got started 15 years ago so I do not attribute my current discomfort from older age. The muscle pains are just part of the joy of knowing I've had a full workout, pushed myself beyond my limits, and have had a great time. It's a great way to start the New Year being in the beautiful mountains of Vermont, breathing the fresh air, and getting to snowboard with my family.

I used to motivate myself to stay in shape, just so I can eventually get to snowboard (my passion and favorite activity) with my son Mateo. I thought that would happen at age 12, but last year, at age 6, Mateo was able to snowboard on the green runs at Stratton. It was thrilling to be able to ride side by side with him. And today, despite my aches and pains, I got myself back on the mountain after picking him up from snowboarding school and did a run with him on Stowe.

Now for the reward, in 1 hour, I have an appointment with a deep tissue massage therapist at the Top Knotch Spa. Ahhh, the rewards of active living. Hope you are enjoying your January 1st as much as I am.

Please share your favorite stories of enjoyment and motivation with your family. I look forward to hearing about them. Happy New Year! May your year be full of fun, prosperity, health and happiness!