CAMDEN — For many, it has seemed that winter just would not get here. With so many days of highs in the 40s and 50s, some people have reported seeing buds reappearing on trees and even the occasional mosquito!

But as the countdown to Christmas began this week, the temperatures dropped Sunday and the Camden Snow Bowl fired up the snow guns, laying down the first layer of flakes on Ragged Mountain. If the weather holds now, and the Snow Bowl crew can keep the snow-making machines running, a solid layer of snow on the ground will help deter melting should a warm day creep in here or there.

And while the National Weather Service is showing warmer temperatures, and even some rain, in this week’s forecast, lets hope that Mother Nature gives the cold weather enthusiasts a chance to try out their new winter toys soon!

FYI: The first official day of winter 2015 is Tuesday, Dec. 22.