Spot on, living close to an affordable ski area is key. As for the gear, there is a ski gear swap every year here in Bellingham, and it is always packed. So as a local, its easy to get into cheap gear. Our ski area offers free ski passes to one if the middle school grades (I think 6th), and there is a program to give middle and high schoolers a ride up to the mountain using district school buses. I never got into skiing, I am not the most coordinated individual, so I decided I should probably skip that experience. I have gone up snow shoeing a few times, and while not the same thrill as hurtling down a hill with a couple sticks strapped to your feet, I still get to enjoy the beauty of the mountains in the winter.

Oregon is on fire.

Exciting times!!!

Woo hoo!!!

Dewpoint at my house is 83.1 right now and 82 at nearby Forbes Field. Heat index around 119-120. About as oppressive as I can remember. Like @Clinton, I'll be happy when fall arrives if this keeps up, especially into August.