With the New Year upon us, perhaps you’ve begun your resolutions. For many that means losing holiday weight, but that doesn’t mean it has to be painful. With the cold, dark arms of winter around us it’s hard sometimes to get out of bed. I invite you to remember the joy of a snow day that you felt as a child and enjoy some of the season’s benefits. And really, what is more fun than playing in the snow?

Escape the city for some scenic views and fresh snow just two hours away in the scenic Pocono Mountain area. Ski, tube or hike at any of the three area resorts. Conveniently located nearby are Blue Mountain (skibluemt.com), Big Boulder (jfbb.com) and Camelback (skicamelback.com) ski areas.

There are plenty of options for lodgings, everything from Victoria Inns, to B&Bs, to motels, with many different pricing options to suit different budgets. For more area information, visit: www.800Poconos.com. In addition, several area motels offer packages for skiers. Some offer a free lift ticket or even a gas card to pay for transport to and from the ski areas. The Comfort Inn Pocono Mountains in Whitehaven, PA is offering a free lift ticket per guest during the 2012 Season. Visit, www.comfortinn.com for more information.

But if you have big plans for say a dozen so of your friends, a vacation home rental is the way to go. One such property is the Lake View Lodge (www.lakeviewbb.com) in Pennsylvania.  This family owned and operated vacation property is available for groups of 12 to 15 on a weekend or weekly basis. The beautiful, rustic lodge overlooks the Beltsville Lake. Each room, which sleeps two, has its own fireplace and balcony. In addition, the great room boasts a 26-foot fireplace and a large dining room table that seats 12. The fully functional kitchen has all the amenities, double ovens, microwave, dishwasher, and 4-slice toaster to make cooking breakfast or dinner a breeze.

Groups may also want to try their skill at paintball at nearby Skirmish (skirmish.com), a 700-acre adventure park. Different rates apply for large groups, but the individual price per person is $29.95, which includes a gun and safety goggles. Paint balls are not included. The park also offers a special “Ladies Day,” which means women play for free on special days including Feb. 4 and March 17.

Other area attractions include shopping at The Crossings Premium Outlet in nearby Tannersville, which features 100 stores including top designers such as Ann Taylor, Gap, J. Crew, Calvin Klein, among others. Or visit historic Jim Thorpe, which also has shopping for antique lovers, nightly entertainment, dining, and even some walking ghost tours. More area information about lodging, ski rentals, and dining can be found at: www.jimthorpe.org.

So shake off your winter blues with an unforgettable weekend adventure.

Photos courtesy of Pocono Mountains Visitor Bureau.