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Happy Spring!

To kick-off spring in a unique way (especially given yesterday's storm) we decided to do something fun with our ongoing bloggers. We asked them all the same question:

Tell me one thing you are going to do this spring in NH that you have never done before.

Their responses are below. See if you can guess which one belongs to which blogger - or wait for their blog post detailing their adventure! There's definitely an outdoorsy theme here!....

I am going to run all of the races in the Capital Area Race Series (CARS).

I would love to zip line (and live to blog about it, haha)!

I’m going to plant my first flower garden at my first house!

I am doing the Rock Wall at Evolution Rock & Fitness.

I am going to become a volunteer at Miracles in Motion, a horseback riding school for children with disabilities.

I am going to be participating in the Color Vibe 5k.

I'll be doing Aerial Fabric Yoga.

I will pull on my neon running pants to go with my Ghostbusters t-shirt for the Totally Awesome 80s 5K Run in Manchester.

What's your best guess? Participants include: Jess, Carmen, Anna, Griffin, Alyssa, Alexandra, Laura, and Erin.

Welcome to New Hampshire, Spring!

Kate Luczko is the Executive Director of Stay Work Play New Hampshire.

"Service Above Self”

I am sure that we have all experienced that networking can be a fundamental contributor to the lasting success of our careers. Over the years, I have realized the diverse networking opportunities that New Hampshire has in store for us. At first I viewed networking as the formal Toastmasters event where you dress to impress and talk business. While these types of networking events can be highly valuable, I have found for myself, that there is another style of networking.

New Hampshire is filled with opportunities that can align perfectly with your individual interests and values. I love to ski, get adventurous, and help people at the same time so volunteering at New England Disabled Sports has been a perfect fit. The other volunteers are local business owners, New England attorneys, doctors, businessmen, etc that drive north for a weekend adventure. The casual conversation and genuine interest during our time together makes each day fly by and the outdoor adventure that much more fun.

One of the newest organizations that I have found valuable is Rotary. Rotary began in 1905 as a men only club. In the late 1900’s, Rotary evolved to a co-ed club. The core values and motto of Rotary International is “Service Above Self” and they view any endeavor using a “four way test”:

The Rotary Four Way Test By Darrell Thompson

Is it the TRUTH?

Is it FAIR to all concerned?

Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

Rotary International is the mother ship of all local Rotary clubs. I was inducted into the Lincoln-Woodstock Rotary Club last month as the youngest member, bringing the average age down 10 years (or so)!

I learned about Rotary during the Hurricane Sandy Relief Trip that my company sponsored a few months ago. Rotary also consists of local business owners and genuine people who just want to help others. From a networking perspective, you have your local club networking opportunities, but also, for example, if you are going on a business trip to another city, state, or even country, you can join one of their Rotary meetings and be welcomed with open arms (now if that’s not effective networking, I don’t know what is)! You can pitch this new group of genuine professionals with who you are, where you’re from, what you do, and what your Rotary Club is actively doing so that you don’t sound too salesy.

Since I joined Rotary last month, we have sent 15 members to Belize in aid of schools and hospitals, hosted a local ski race fundraiser, helped organize the annual “Winni Dip” and “Penguin Plunge” fundraiser, and much more!

One of my favorite endeavors with Rotary this month has been the brewing of our very own “Fellowship Brew” to be distributed with the Woodstock Station microbrews around New England. We brewed our very own beer with a customized label. It has been a very exciting process and all proceeds of the “Fellowship Brew” sales will go directly to our “Service Above Self” undertakings. We will be launching our brew on Saturday with a beer and food-pairing event at the Woodstock Station. All of the Rotary and NEDS experiences that I’ve had have been very rewarding, educational and valuable.

Brett M. Lucas

Stay: Brett lives in the beautiful White Mountains of Lincoln, New Hampshire. Work: Brett is extremely passionate about brands, their people, and how they evolve and grow together to become incrementally more successful. As the Global Operations Associate at Beacon Worldwide, he works directly with his firm’s Managing Partners in day-to-day operations, coaching sessions, strategy, e-training platform development, and more. This position requires a fair amount of national and international travel as his team is currently scattered in 32 countries across the globe. Play: Brett enjoys sharing resources and skills with local non-profits such as New England Disabled Sports, and the North Country Center for the Arts. In addition to work and volunteering with non-profits, he enjoys playing guitar, summer softball, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and skiing with his local and college friends.

So, they’re telling me tomorrow is spring…

Looking outside I certainly wouldn’t believe them. Especially because this week last year I’m pretty sure we had a beach day (& actually went to the beach).

Despite wearing snow boots to work today I definitely have spring fever. I can’t wait to run around with Yaz and take more advantage of the beautiful land we live on. Oh yeah, and tend to our kicka** garden.

Living on an old farm, it kind of goes without saying that we have to have at least a small plot. Luckily we get pretty into it and end up with a damn good sized crop if I do say myself.

GRAPE TOMATOES FOR DAYS. Yes, those are actually mine from last year.

I’ve been mentally preparing for this season and decided to use one of the hottest items on the intrawebs to help me out- Pinterest, duh.

There are endless gardening boards out there, but one that I always enjoy is Whole Foods’ board, as they have lots of out-of-the box ideas.

Does anyone else out there garden? Or want to?

If you don’t have land to use yourself, there are some other great options out there, such as crop shares and community gardens.

I’d love to hear about all the other resources used by my fellow farmers!

Micaela is a recent college grad and a new New Hampshirite. During the work week she can be found downtown at EVR Advertising, but on the weekends she’s normally spotted running around with her Chocolate Lab, Yaz, or still downtown, but enjoying a good brew with great friends. Through her blogs, she hopes to show people that it’s not as hard as it looks to move to a new place and find happiness. But when in doubt, just get a dog. For inspiration in 140 characters or less: @mgh8

The Evolution of Evolution

Jazzercise and Aerobics were the latest fitness craze when I was a kid. I remember seeing the Jane Fonda videos and saw exercising in the living room become the trendy convenient and fun way to exercise. I quickly understood how individuals are always searching for novel and fun exercise programs. Jazzercise and aerobics quickly evolved into programs such as spinning, yoga, Pilates and zumba. Weight lifting and strength training have also evolved. Bar bells and dumb bells were created late in the 19th century and have evolved into new lines of ergonomic machines that are being developed as recent as today (and often times showcased in late night infomercials.). This brings us to an unlikely but seemingly perfect next step in the fitness evolution: rock climbing.

I’ve participated in all kinds of different sports leagues like softball, distance running, basketball, skiing and competitive soccer. I’m also well versed with yoga, pilates, gym memberships, ab rollers and more of the like. It wasn’t till the summer of 2006 I got into outdoor sport rock climbing and started getting unprecedented full body workouts while simultaneously satiating my love for the outdoors. I was hooked from the start and quickly found the mental challenges where the most addicting while the physical rewards became the proverbial icing on the cake.

The opening of Evolution Rock + Fitness, a state-of-the-art climbing facility in Concord, has reinvigorated my passion for climbing. My niche as the Operations Manager at Evolution is surely a perk I am lucky to have, but getting to climb in the gym is something anyone can enjoy. I can’t fathom why anyone looking to be active would go to a traditional gym when this facility is available. We offer world class climbing, a fitness area with cardio and weights and fitness classes like Aerial Yoga, Zumba, mat Pilates and Yoga.

You’ll also find something slightly more abstract, but just as essential – community. The climbing culture is inherently social in nature. It’s common to hear chants of encouragement throughout the gym, frequently offered by a complete stranger who is inspired by a struggling climber’s effort. We work hard at Evolution to offer support to everyone and suppress judgment towards a person’s ability. We share the belief of our Founder, Hilary Harris, that everyone has their route. We want everyone to join us and discover their own personal evolution.

Kris Hiller (above) is the Operations Manager for Evolution Rock + Fitness. His passion for the outdoors, athletics, health, and wellness has all come together for him while living in New Hampshire. He shares his rock climbing passion daily at the gym and enjoys contributing to the Nashua community as a Board Member of the Nashua Youth Soccer League.

Let me tell you a story....

My name is Beth Hutchins and I’m thrilled to be blogging for Stay Work Play! My life thus far has been fairly predictable, that is until last fall when my well-laid plans pretty much did a complete one-eighty. Now, I’m looking forward to picking up bits and pieces lost along the way and of course experiencing new things (you could call it a path to self-discovery). As I do so, I am hoping to share with you some fun and interesting stories. Maybe you’ll learn something and I’m positive that I’ll learn a few things as well!

I have to say that I enjoy something about every season in New Hampshire, but late winter has to be one of my favorite times of year. Days like last Sunday make putting up with a long winter all worthwhile. Bluebird skies, temperatures in the 40’s, and the sun shining… This was my perfect winter day.

I woke in the morning (an hour early thanks to daylight savings), suited up for skiing and headed off to work. It was a special day for one particular reason: I got to ski first tracks with the General Manager, a.k.a. my boss, and a group of guests. This kind of event happens once a month at my company (a ski resort) and a few extra managers are always needed to help out. As the Director of Human Resources, you can imagine that I’m typically confined to my desk, so I absolutely take advantage of any reason to get out on the slopes and ‘work.’ That day, the morning air was fresh and crisp and the snow was that perfect corduroy texture us ski folk dream about. The morning ended with hot coffee and warm cinnamon rolls in the summit lodge. Great start to the day!

Later on, after work and with an extra hour of daylight still ahead, I got home with plenty of time to take my two dogs, Zoey & Lily, out for a 3-mile run. After being cooped up in the house most days this winter, they were in heaven, as was I. There’s something about a quiet run through the neighborhood and past the lake that just makes my day. Perhaps it’s absorbing all the fresh air and sunshine and the endorphins that follow a good run. I am very much looking forward to the sunny days and milder temperatures as we near closer to spring. I suppose I will have to be patient, as another storm is on its way this week. Lucky for me, if it’s not perfect running weather I can always hit the slopes and get in some skiing. So, that just about sums my perfect winter day… what’s yours?

Beth Hutchins grew up on a farm in rural East Conway, NH. She is happiest when outdoors and therefore loves that her home is in the beautiful Mount Washington Valley. Beth attended Plymouth State University for her B.A. in Communication Studies (’05) and M.Ed in Curriculum & Instruction (’13). She’s a Human Resources Director by profession and in her spare time enjoys spending time with her friends & family, skiing, and jogging with her two dogs, Zoey & Lily.

Lakes Region Manufacturing Week, Part II

Wow, what a fun week it has been. I’ve gone on tours of six of the eight plants participating in Lakes Region Manufacturing Week. My head is spinning. So many cool, high-tech products made right here in the Lakes Region. So many amazing jobs available! I just want to repeat something from my last post: if you are young and un/under-employed in NH, you need to check out the manufacturing industry. Even if you majored in fine art or English, seriously, you should take a look at these companies!

Here are the major points I walked away with:

You can go through WorkReady NH at your local community college FOR FREE and get your skills rated to help make you look more attractive to a manufacturing company if you don’t have experience in the industry and your education is in something totally unrelated.

You can start in an entry-level position with nothing more than a positive attitude, a demonstrated desire to learn, and some decent (but not advanced) math skills. Entry level jobs in manufacturing in the Lakes Region seem to pay anywhere from $15 to $20 an hour and provide good benefits.

You can work your way up quickly by showing initiative and ability to acquire new skills. All of the companies I visited said they pay for their employees to continue their education. Many of them will pay 100% of your tuition if you maintain good grades. So even if you have an anthropology degree that is proving somewhat useless in this economy, you could get another degree at no cost if you are a hard worker. These companies invest heavily in their employees.

The work environments are really nice. Some of the production floors are kind of noisy, but other than that, I didn’t see anything that would make me not want to spend my eight hours a day in any of these plants. They were cleaner than my house (but that’s not saying much).

It’s gratifying to make stuff. I mean, really, these people are very proud of what they do. They make parts for military aircraft, commercial jets, cars, medical devices (like fake joints used in hip replacement surgery), heat sinks for all kinds of electronic devices, large format printers, the list goes on and on. And those are just the products made by the six companies I visited this week! There are tons more all over the state.

I learned so much this week! I’m excited to continue talking about what an exciting industry advanced manufacturing is and encouraging young people in my community to explore it. Spread the word!

On the production floor at EPTAM Plastics in Northfield with our tour group. Way cleaner than my house!

Carmen grew up in Gilmanton, NH. After going to college in Washington, DC and roaming the world for a few years, she and her husband Jonathan recently moved to Carmen’s hometown with their four year old son Julius. Carmen is the Executive Director of the Belknap County Economic Development Council. In her spare time, she has epic pretend sword fights with Julius and supports her husband in bringing top-shelf jazz music to unexpected places through his new company, NH Jazz Presents.

Fun @ Stay Work Play

Crotched Mountain Spring Carnival

March is my favorite month of the year for several reasons. First, it's the month of my husband's birthday, which just gives me an excuse for online shopping. Second, when the calendar flips around to March, I feel like I'm actually going to make it through winter. And third, and possibly my favorite (don't tell my husband), March weather is perfect for skiing!

So why not get in some awesome spring skiing while checking out Crotched Mountain's Spring Carnival happening this weekend with different events each day. Don't miss the 9th Annual Cardboard Sled Race on March 16. Registration is from 8am until 10:30am, and race time is 11am. But please note, all sleds must be made out of cardboard and duct tape. Any foreign materials will get the sled disqualified.

Don't feel like careening down a hillside with nothing between you and the hard earth but a piece of cardboard? Perhaps a 100 ft. pond in the midst of its spring thaw is more your speed. On Sunday, March 17, put on your green and get ready for Slush Cup 2013! As crazy as this sounds, you can compete to win a 13/14 season's pass to Crotched Mountain just by skimming across the ski area's 100 foot pond. Points are awarded according to performance in this endeavor, so check out their website for more information. The event is open to the public, but remember, ski and snowboards only for the skim across the pond.

With live music outside and a visit from the Manchester Monarch's mascot, "Max", at the Slush Cup, this will be a weekend extravaganza not to be missed!

1776

Ok, confession time. When I was in high school, I was a major band geek, which meant a lot of time spent in the pit band for the annual musical. So when I saw 1776 was playing at the Garrison Arts Players Center in Rollinsford March 15 – 17 and 22-23, I was instantly transported back to a pit band rehearsals, listening to awkward teenagers gush about liberty and independence. And I knew I had to share the love for this unique musical about the creation of the Declaration of Independence.

Don't yawn just yet! I promise this musical, which showcases the debates of the Second Continental Congress will not leave you wishing for those three hours of your life back. The witty dialogue and masterful score will keep you engaged until the last signature dries on the Declaration of Independence.

Show times are at 8pm on Friday and Saturday and 3pm on Sunday, and tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for students. Order online or call their box office at 603-750-4278.

Dancing with the Stars 1940s Dance Hall 2013 Gala

Yes, we all know you secretly want to be on Dancing with the Stars, so why not get a little closer to your dream and grab a seat the Manchester Community Music School's 2013 gala on March 21 at 5:30pm at the music school in Manchester?

Watch as community leaders Heidi Copeland, Publisher at Millyard Communications / Business New Hampshire Magazine, Mike L’Ecuyer, President and CEO of Bellwether Community Credit Union, Brady Sadler, VP at GY&K Marketing, and 1 band 1 brand and Deb Titus of Human Capital Solutions, LLC compete to win in this dance competition featuring 1940s jazz from the New Hampshire Youth Jazz Ensemble. And don't forget celebrity judges Katie McQuaid of the Union Leader’s “Katie McQuaid’s Scene in Manchester”, Scott G. Christensen, Managing Partner at Northwestern Mutual Northern New England Financial Group and Jill Deleault, Music School Voice Faculty, Former Miss Nebraska, and local Musical Director & Choreographer.

Shine up your dancing shoes and support this great community organization. Tickets are $75 each or $600 for a table of 8. Purchase tickets online or by calling 603-644-4548.

Check it out

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy at the Flying Monkey Movie House & Performance Center in Plymouth, Friday, March 15 at 7:30pm. Don't miss this chance to sharpen your dance skills in anticipation of the Manchester Community Music School's gala by dancing the night away to the sounds of this swing era band. Tickets start at $45 and can be purchased at the door or online.

If you have something fun you want me to write about, please send me an email at [email protected].

Jess would like to spend her days writing gripping stories about love and passion and sometimes naughty, naughty mice to inspire children to do the right thing, depending on what project she’s currently working on, but sadly, she needs a day job in marketing to pay the mortgage. A transplant from western New York, Jess is very happy to call New Hampshire home. She lives in Manchester with her husband and a very opinionated Basset hound.

Is “Shop Local” Dying in your Community?

I grew up in a town with no big box stores or chains, so I only knew about “shopping local”. This term is in regards to not just shopping in your town, but rather shopping at the places that were owned and operated by the people in your community. Of course it is near impossible not to shop at popular multi-store shops, since we get most of our clothes from a mall anyway, or our groceries from chain locations. I am not saying to never shop at places like this but to be consciences of the Mom and Pop shops in your communities.

When I got to college, I was certainly exposed more to larger chain stores, with Wal-Mart, BJ’s Jordan’s Furniture, Plant Fitness, Barnes and Nobles, Chili’s and Home Depot. I am positive that I have stepped foot in all of these places and more, but depending on where you live these types of places are more prevalent. With the popularity of stores like these in the towns we live in, we see less and less of the family owned businesses. It is unfortunate, but lower prices, larger selections and convenience have replaced customer service, hospitality, and friendships from our shopping and dining experiences.

Chain stores are found more in the southern part of the state, but as you continue to drive north you will find a gift shop owned by your neighbor a unique clothing boutique run by members of their community, restaurant’s grocery and book stores all with selections that favor the demand in the area. I prefer to, when I can, Shop Local. As a college student I worked with the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce to promote their Shop Local campaign that supported shopping in the town. This program was and still is successful to this day.

A recent example of this, for me, was doing something I never would have thought I’d be doing at 25, but that is mattress shopping. I was told to go drive down south (more than 1 hour) to some of the bigger and popular furniture stores. However, right in my backyard was Harris Family Furniture. This family owned business operates out of 3 locations and has been in business for over 45 years. There stores have been set up inside of refinished post and beam homes from yesteryear. The attentiveness of the staff to our questions and concerns was comforting and their quality delivery service left us with no concerns. The only other thing people would argue with is the prices. I’ll tell you after researching big box stores online, the prices were reasonably close, enough to not make me drive more than an hour and pay for delivery. On top of it they were having a sale so our mattress was less than it would be at a box store! Double win!

If cost is a big concern to you than stick with your big box stores, if friendly conversation and customer service are more up your alley, shop local more. New Hampshire is full of great places that won’t rank highest on your Google searches, but they will give you what you need and more, with a smile. We all have our favorite places to shop, but next time you are out, try somewhere new, a sports store that your coach operates, or restaurant that your friend’s parent’s own. Enjoy shopping local.

Griffin works as a Client Development Associate for Digital Marketing Agency, SilverTech, out of Manchester. Moving to the Granite State from neighboring Massachusetts, Griffin attended Plymouth State and decided to stay in the mountains, starting his career as an Executive Assistant for New Hampshire’s own Common Man Family of Restaurants. Knowing what New Hampshire’s north country has to offer for an avid outdoorsman, Griffin spends a lot of time with his Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Willow, hiking, hunting, and swimming around the Lakes Region and White Mountains. Always seeking to learn and grow as a professional, Griffin is currently attending Southern New Hampshire University seeking his MBA in Marketing.

Up North

I bet you didn’t know this but there’s actually stuff to do up in that there North Country here in New Hampsha. This past weekend my boyfriend and I went up to Lincoln, NH to support a friend of ours, Brett Lucas (also a Stay Work Play blogger) and his recent endeavor as an actor. We both headed North with the mindset of ‘eh, this will be fun, right?’ The two of us don’t venture past exit 16 on 93 North very often so besides my time at Plymouth State for four years and him going to school at New Hampton, we went up some hesitations.

On our way up we made some pit stops. I know you’re curious so I’ll share ‘em.

Like most alumni, we had to check out our old stomping grounds. I got the tour of New Hampton School in New Hampton, NH (obvi). Did you know the school was founded in 1821? When the first term began tuition was $3.00 per term. The campus was quaint, homey & beautiful. Definitely a must see if you’re in the area.

Before getting off exit 25, we took a detour so I could show off The Common Man’s Express location in Ashland (exit 24) that many people don’t know about. It’s shared with the Mobile gas station. It’s the typical CMAN dish but way more convenient while you’re on the go. Add it to your to do list, especially once the warmer weather approaches … homemade ice cream!

As a proud PSU Alum, I just had to drive through the campus. I even asked to be dropped off once I spied a group of people playing corn toss outside. Ahh.. memories! Skipping ahead in our weekend, on our way home we stopped back in Plymouth to grab breakfast at one of my favorite spots, Main Street Station. Order the Station Sampler. It has everything you’d ever want for breakfast. Trust me.

Once we checked into the hotel we headed to dinner. I bet you can’t guess where we went. Yep, The Common Man in Lincoln. Nothing beats their fireplace. It was roaring and the place was packed. As always, I recommend their Camp Crackers. Enough said.

So for the main reason we ventured North... Brett’s play! The North Country Center for the Arts, Papermill Theatre is a non-profit arts organization supporting arts in northern New Hampshire. We met up with other friends as well to check out Brett’s leading role “You Can’t Take it With You.” We had a great time. Just as an FYI, the theatre (Jean’s Playhouse) does house beer & wine … and cookies. Great job to everyone, cast & crew.

(Kate attended Brett's show on Sunday and took this picture of the stage before the show started....)

We wrapped up the evening at The Bunyan Room at Loon Mountain. It was full of your typical NH skiers. It was great to go out on the deck and see the mountain lit up while enjoying a brew or two with good friends. And last but not least, we ended our evening at The Woodstock Station & Brewery. All in all, what an (unexpected) great weekend.

Alyssa is NH born & bred. A social media enthusiast who craves coffee, diet coke and texting. When she’s not pretending the Kardashians are distant relatives, she’s a proud auntie and passionate for brands with meaning. Her wit is memorable and ability to coordinate all things chaotic is unforgettable. Laugh with Alyssa via Twitter.

Did somebody say cupcake?

Cupcakes have been around since the 1700’s, and in 1919 Hostess Cupcakes were born, but not until 2000 did they get there big break on the hit TV show Sex in the City and as they say the rest is history.

According to the website foodbeast since 2008 the cupcake industry in the United States has exploded! Currently it’s a 200 million dollar industry even though some of those cupcakes can be up to 700 calories! I wonder how many weight watchers points that is?

The average cupcake is $3 and can be up to 4 servings! Last year 13% of weddings opted for cupcakes rather than the traditional wedding cake. You can get any flavor literally-lasagna, sweet potato, vegan, grapefruit, French toast, beets, you name it they have it!

There are many television shows that even feature cupcake competitions! New Hampshire’s own White Mountain Cupcakery took home the prize on the Food Network’s Cupcake Wars which has approximately 1.6 million viewers.

If you are in the mood to try a variety of cupcakes and flavors and have all of the proceeds go to a great cause you should check out the Lakes Region Habitat for Humanity fundraiser this Saturday March 16th at the The Historic Belknap Mill in downtown Laconia. All proceeds will go towards the non profits 32nd build in the Lakes Region and 1st Handicapped Accessible Home which will be located in Franklin.

I have personally met the new family that the house is being built for and they are so genuine and grateful for the community and the outpouring of support which they are receiving.

Not only do you get to visit one of the oldest mills in the United States and the only knitting museum in the United States, you get to help out a wonderful cause, and stuff your face for only $10!!!

Several locally owned businesses will be showing a themed display and 15 dozen cupcakes with their most popular flavor! Some flavors just to name a few are Almond Joy, Vanilla Bean, Caramel, and S’mores! Your $10 admission gets you one cupcake from each local business owner!

The businesses participating are:

Lakes Region Cupcakes

Lara Gruner, Just A Girl With An Apron

Ooo La La Creative Cakes

Sweet Lea Lea

The Sweet Life

Kara's Cafe and Cakery

I’ll be volunteering at the event so I hope to see you there!!!

What is your favorite flavored cupcake? Where is your favorite cupcakery in New Hampshire?

Laura Brusseau is an outgoing, supportive and strong teacher. She not only teaches her high school students, but her friends, family and community members. That giving and helping those in need is a wonderful gift and way to live life. Her camera is always ready to snap the best photo. She enjoys walks and hikes with her dog Calli, offers creative ideas to help others and won’t ever pass up a fun night or camping trip with friends.

Finding my Winter Sport

For those who know me, this declaration should come as little shock. I can’t stand winter. The runny noses, the cold, the nonchalance about shaving your legs, the tans fading (or in my case, 50% of my freckles), cleaning off your car… I generally want no part of it. I will, however, make an exception for winter fashion. I adore winter outwear. Still, the cons outweigh the pros for me, which through the years has tended to isolate me from fun activities in the nine months of winter in the Granite State. For example, as one of the more screamingly apparent ways that show that I am not a born and bred New Englander, I didn’t really try skiing until I was a freshman in college. Attending college at Plymouth, where they get a day off each year entitled “Ski Day”, always seemed to turn into a day for movies and raiding the near empty dining hall while a majority of campus was out being awesome on mountains. But no more, my friends. I have found my winter sport at last.

We all worked those weird jobs in college that are now great fodder for story telling. One of my jobs was working as a “liftie” for Pat’s Peak. The perks of this job included free rentals and lift tickets, which I assume was much of the draw for the people I worked with. This is when I first gave an honest attempt to learn how to ski. Admittedly, I can ski, but I’m much better at falling while skiing. I also tend to forget how to stop or steer. Snowboarding, for me, is 100% out of the question. Coordination is often not on my side. After one winter of working at Pat’s, with a few runs under my belt, I hung up my hat on skiing.

Now some of you might be thinking, “hey Erin, there are more winter sports than skiing or snowboarding. Didn’t Plymouth build some ice arena or something?”. Yes, yes they did. During a few trips of staff bonding, we did go ice-skating. I’ll let this super embarrassing photo speak for itself about how that has gone for me. Notice the deer in the headlights, lack of forward motion in this shot. When your man-friend is skating circles around you and holding your hand (aka dragging you) to help you skate, it is not nearly as romantic as in the movies. Ice skating? I’ll keep the bench warm.

So, coming to terms with being in the slim category of “no winter sport” has been a long time coming. However, a group outing with work this past week had shed some light on a less skill-based & more fun option… tubing.

As this month’s team bonding, we decided to go tubing at nearby Granite Gorge, which turned out to be a great time! It was the perfect snowy day and there were very few people there, as we went at 2:30 on a weekday. There is a designated hill for tubing only, and you have your pick of a few different sizes and style tubes, ranging from small to large and double to single tubes. There is a “magic carpet” to get you to the top of the hill, so there’s really minimal effort involved. The rules are pretty lax also, but not unsafe.

We had a group of around eight of us, and we all went down as one big pod a few times, but also rode as single riders and in smaller groups. The staff will also whip you around in circles, if you want, to spiral down the hill. If you have turned up your nose at tubing before, thinking it’s for babies and grandma, you’re right- that’s exactly what it’s for… and it’s awesome. Winter sport of choice? Found.

Erin grew up outside of Baltimore, MD, and moved to the Monadnock Region 10 years ago with her parents. After spending time up at Plymouth State University (class of ’09 & ’11), she now resides in Keene and is looking for ways to make this town her home. Erin’s interests include watching anything on TLC, collecting cacti (much to the dismay of her fiancé), sampling craft beer, reading anything but historical non-fiction, dabbling with photography, hiking, tweeting about things not worthy of Facebook, and singing loudly in the car.

7 Things To Do When You’re Snowed In

So I don’t know about you, Granite Staters, but I am beyond sick and tired of all this snow! It’s piling up outside my window as I write this blog and we’re expecting at least a few inches here in the Southern part of the state. So, with the expectation that I may have to shovel myself out of my driveway tomorrow morning, I give you seven things you can do if you decide to throw in the towel (or shovel, as it were) and stay home.

Read a book set in the state or written by a New Hampshirite! See one of my previous blog posts for a few suggestions!

Host a New Hampshire movie marathon. In the same fashion, curl up on the couch and break out the popcorn for a marathon of feature films shot in the Granite State. Did you know that Jumanji was filmed in the town circle of Keene or that the natural beauty seen in On Golden Pond was really Squam Lake? See if you can recognize a place you’ve been to in any of the scenes!

Flip some NH flapjacks! In need of some comfort food? Whip up a batch of pancakes (with authentic “made in NH” maple syrup). Have fun with it by seeing if you can shape them into an outline of the Old Man in the Mountain.

Go sledding in your backyard. Even if you’re too snowed in to hit the slopes with your skis, you can sled down a neighborhood hill for some old-fashioned, childlike thrills (and way less cash).

Get glamping. So the harsh winters up here don’t make for prime camping. Bring the outdoors to your home by setting up a tent in your living room and roasting marshmallows by the fireplace. It’s like you’re out in the woods, minus the hypothermia.

Take a nap to Fritz Weatherbee. Because we can never get enough of that guy in this state. His quirky state stories and his lullaby of a voice puts you right to sleep.

Plan your in-state summer vacation! Whether you’re beach-bumming it on the lakes or hiking up to the summit of Mount Washington, escape the cold by planning your next big summer vacation… and wish for warmer weather!

Alexandra Churchill is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire’s journalism program, now working as a freelance writer and web producer. She’s a storyteller first and foremost, with a passion for telling other people’s stories as well as her own. Her written work has appeared in The Telegraph, Northshore Magazine, and USA TODAY College, just to name a few. When not indoors (being a geek), she can be found perusing travel magazines to plan her next in-state adventure whether that be catching some sun at Hampton Beach, canoeing out on Lake Winnipesaukee, or hiking in the White Mountains with her two dogs (both named Rocky). Either way, she will pursue a career in online media with a latte (and pen) in hand. Tweet with her @allie_churchill!

Robots.

Lots and lots of robots. I went to the FIRST robotics competition on Saturday at the Verizon center in Manchester (Jess mentioned it in her Fun@StayWorkPlay post last week too) – have you ever been?! It’s like a rock concert for geeks, it’s awesome. There were teams from all over the region who came to compete….and they go all out. Teams dress up in a theme, in a color, spike their hair, wear flashing lights, paint their faces, wear costumes, decorate team flags and cheer each other on. Seriously, it was like a rock concert.

Each year a super-secret team of really smart people develop a challenge, and then teams from around the country build robots who can perform the tasks outlined in the challenge. Then they compete to see who has the best robot. (watch the video) It’s like a sporting event for robots – it’s one thing to have an awesome robot, you also have to be able to drive it well and manipulate it against the other teams.

I was so impressed by these teenagers who are so passionate and engaged in this process. It was very cool to see a stadium full of people cheering these kids on and rewarding them for doing something with their brain. Who knows what these kids will go on to do next!

I brought Blake and I plan to bring him every year. He thought it was so awesome and we walked around the “pit” to get a closer look at the robots. You can talk to the teams and watch them make adjustments to their robot before they go out to compete. They start the program in Kindergarten with the Junior Lego League and I plan to sign him up! Who knows, maybe he’ll be a future Oz-Ram! I will be on the hair and makeup committee! Can’t wait!

Another cool organization and cool people (Dean Kamen) who make NH awesome!

Anna Moskov is the Senior Major and Planned Gifts Officer at New Hampshire Public Radio. She eats lunch at 10:30am, loves to read, is a major nerd for NHPR, and loves to ride her bike. Her dreamboat of a husband, Boyan Moskov, has his own pottery business, Boyan Pottery, which they manage together and sell his work all over the country. Their three year old son Blake is currently obsessed with helicopters, airplanes, rockets, construction vehicles, the iPad and M&M’s.

Fun @ Stay Work Play

Maple Sugar Madness

With temperatures hovering near the 40 degree mark and as I count down the hours to that fateful moment when we lose an hour in exchange for sheer daylight when we leave work at 5 o'clock, I embrace the teasing hints of spring that are creeping their way into New Hampshire.

So head on out to Maple Sugar Madness at Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center in Laconia on Saturday, March 9, to learn everything there is to know about sugaring. Participate in a 1.5 hour program to get the hands-on experience of what sugaring actually entails. Programs start at 10am, 12, and 2pm and run every Saturday in March. Learn everything from how to find the right tree to tap to the history of maple sugaring. The program includes a hike to the Sugar House, so proper dress is encouraged.

Registration is required, so call 603-366-5695 to get a spot. Ticket prices vary, so visit their website for more information.

41st Annual NH Camping & RV Show

Yes, I will be at the Hampshire Dome in Milford this weekend for the 41st Annual NH Camping & RV Show trying to decide which RV my Bassett hound, Josie, would find the best for napping.

But don't be fooled. This show is not all about RVs and campers. If you are any kind of outdoor enthusiast, you won't want to miss this. Events are happening everyday of the show from Friday, March 8 through Sunday, March 9. Exhibits from local businesses will include RVs and camping equipment. If you're a hiker, don't miss photographer and New Hampshire hiking expert Kris Ebbeson on Sunday, March 10 from 10am until noon to talk about the best places to hike for all levels of skill.

Tickets for adults are $9, and children under 12 are free. Cash only at the door. Head to the Hampshire Dome and find which RV you think would be best to nap in.

NH Poetry Out Loud Semi-Final

I'll confess. I went to college for a degree, not a career, and so I went through our educational system at time when a degree in English meant absorbing a lot of interesting works of modern literature. Some made me raise an eyebrow while others made me wonder how far the term creative expression could really go. But one of the forms of expression that I instantly connected with was spoken poetry.

So I can speak from experience when I say the NH Poetry Out Loud Semi-Final at the UNH Paul Creative Arts Center, Hennessy Theater in Durham on March 11 at 7pm is going to be simply awesome. Poetry Out Loud is a national recitation competition for high school aged students. Students in NH will compete in four semi-finals for the chance to represent their school at the state finals to take place on March 15 in Concord. This event is free and open to the public. Never heard spoken word poetry? Give it a try, and see what you think.

Check It Out

Laugh out loud with comedians Steve Bjork, Mitch Stinson, and Chris Cameron at the Tupelo Night of Comedy at the Tupelo Music Hall in Londonderry on Friday, March 8 at 8pm. Tickets are $18 each and can be purchased online or by calling 603-437-5100. Enjoy a night out before you lose an hour of sleep.

Groovin’ into warmer weather!

We are very lucky to live in a region that attracts some of the world’s most talented musicians! With perfect summer venues like Meadowbrook Arena, the opportunities are endless!

The reason that I write this blog now, is because most tickets for feature summer concerts are currently on sale, or will be going on sale this month and I’d hate to see you miss out! Meadowbrook offers affordable ticket prices ($40 +), both general admission lawn, and reserved seating.

The art of tailgating:

If you’d like the recipe for an ideal concert experience, here’s what you’ll need:

1) 1 designated driver per vehicle

2) A handful of great friends

3) A cooler with ice

4) Beverages of your choice (typically no glass bottles)

a. And water

5) !!! Something to eat !!!

a. Pre-concert snacks

i. Sandwiches from a local deli

ii. Grillables: Burgers, hot dogs, chicken, marinated steak tips, etc

iii. Charcoal or small propane grill

iv. Fresh fruit, chips, cheez-its, etc

b. Post-concert snacks

i. More sandwiches

ii. More grillables

iii. Fresh fruit, chips, cheez-its, etc

6) Music

a. If you plan to play music from your car, make sure that you have jumper cables

b. Battery or solar powered boom box

c. Instruments (and someone to play them)

7) What to do

a. Polish horseshoes

b. Corn hole

c. Frisbee

d. You get the idea…

8) Paper/plastic ware

a. Paper or plastic plates / utensils

b. Plastic cups

9) Camera

10) Concert tickets

11) Be prepared to dispose of your own garbage

*Arriving 2-3 hours prior to opening act (this time frame varies depending on the concert)

*Please be sure to review the venue tailgating rules prior to performance date

Featured Concerts:

Meadowbrook (Gilford, NH)

May 17 – Motley Crue

June 1 – The Band Perry

June 8 – The Avett Brothers & Old Crow Medicine Show

June 14 – Willie Nelson

June 15 – Trace Adkins & Aaron Lewis

June 22 – Darius Rucker & Rodney Atkins

July 6 – Zac Brown Band

^(PRE-SALE TODAY WITH VIRTUAL WRISTBAND - ON SALE SATURDAY MARCH 9 @ 2PM FOR GENERAL PUBLIC)

August 2 – Rascal Flatts

Hope this helps! Have fun, be safe, and rock on!

P.S – in the meantime… something to check out this month… :)

Brett M. Lucas

What do you mean, you don’t like beer?

I’m not talking about Bud Light. I’m talking about real, flavorful beer. Well, Jon and I love it- Strange Brew and Murphy’s are always on the top of our list simply for the great tap selection.

No, those aren’t rabbit droppings or wood pellets—they’re hops (beer seeds, if you will). We have been saying we were going to start homebrewing for a while now, and all it took was one great referral from a coworker to light the fire under my ass. Am I allowed to say that?

Jasper’s in Nashua is definitely a hole in the wall, but consider it a magical, secret, hole in the wall. I’m sure there’s a TV or movie example but that’s not the point. The guys at Jasper’s are beyond passionate about beer—and they’re smart.

Though we chose Jasper’s, there are some other great resources in New Hampshire for beer lovers.

[no- that’s not a root beer float, it’s fermentation]

Candia Road Brewing Company offers all the good homebrew equipment and brainpower as well.

IncrediBREW offers a unique service- allowing customers to brew their concoction & also leave their brewing beers at the shop to ensure temperature (which is a very important piece in the process). They also help you with labels when you’re in the bottling phase.

Brew Free or Die is New Hampshire’s own homebrew club. They hold monthly meetings to plan events such as competitions, and to discuss techniques and recipes… and the best part—sampling. It’s only $20/year for you and your significant brewer.

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