See this picture? This is exactly what it does not look like in the hills around here at this moment.

And that’s bad for Uncle Crappy.

For the past few years — ever since I re-discovered skiing — I’ve had a replacement obsession ready to go immediately after the completion of football season. But this year, when I probably need a diversion the most, there’s very little snow to be found.

Actually, that’s not quite true. There was a little snow in early December, when I had no time to go. Since then, it’s been balmy enough that driving to Seven Springs — even though it’s been marginally open since then, would be a waste of time and ski wax.

There is also a decent amount of snow today, thanks to a storm that dropped about eight inches in the Laurel Highlands this week and temperatures cold enough to make much, much more. Today, actually, would have been perfect: fresh snow, sunny and cool.

And I’m working.

How about tomorrow, on my regular day off? Also would be perfect — except for the predicted rain.

Crappity crappity crap.

Next week is looking better, though. After this weekend’s monsoon passes, it’s supposed to get cold and stay there long enough that by next Friday, Seven Springs should be in pretty good shape. That’s a pretty late start to my skiing season … but I’ll take it.

Anything to put that damn football game behind me.