1000-piece Michael Storrings Christmas Aprés Ski Jigsaw Puzzle

Want to go skiing but don't want to leave the comfort of your warm bed? Try this gorgeous jigsaw puzzle instead...

The 1000-piece Michael Storrings Christmas Aprés Ski Jigsaw Puzzle is perfect for those who are terrified of slopes...or for those who are simply in need of some mental relaxation this busy holiday season. In this stunning jigsaw puzzle, we see an illustration of skiiers heading for 'aprés ski' festivities after a long day. Aprés ski is literally French for 'after ski', and is considered as much a part of skiing culture in the alps as skiing itself. Word of caution: this might be the most difficult Storrings puzzle you ever do!

Features:

• 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle on 2mm premium board
• Michael Storring Christmas Aprés Ski illustration
• Crisp, vibrant, high-res imagery
• Precisely cut for snug fit with minimal puzzle dust
• 27 x 20 inch / 68 x 48 cm when completed
• Discounted for a limited time only

A Christmas love story by illustrator Michael Storring: The first time I went skiing as a teenager in high school, I was terrified. One of my skis fells of the chair lift, and I found myself looking down a steep slope wearing one ski, saying to myself, "Where am I, and what was I thinking?!"

My unsympathetic instructor, handed me the ski I lost, called me a wuss, and before I knew it, I was conquering Mother Nature, whizzing down the mountainside. In my head I was thinking "Oh god, I'm really doing this - snowplough, snowplough, beware of moguls, and don't hit a tree!" Although I never became a champion, I grew to love the sport and spent many weekend and day trips on the slopes in upstate New York.

My favourite memories of that time were those of going to the lodge after and having a hot drink (non-alcoholic at the time!) by the fire and eating fries with gravy (can't eat that now!), just talking and hanging out with my schoolmates or family. I am not sure that there was a name for it at the time, but this moment after a full day on the slopes has not become known as aprés ski - the French phrase that literally translates to mean after ski. 

Now when we hear the name Aspen, St. Moritz, Sun Valley, Lake Tahoe, we conjure up romantic wintry images of long days skiing down mountains of freshly packed snow and aprés ski evenings in cozy lodges, lounging by the sound of crackling fireplaces or in hot tubs surrounded by the crisp open air drinking things like mulled wine, hot toddies, or hot cocoa.

My hope is that my aprés ski jigsaw puzzle will bring you fond memories and help you celebrate and cherish those times skiing with friends and family.