Info on VT

[maddysmommy]

Hi-
I'm an about to be single mama considering a move to VT- somewhere near Barre, but Burlington isn't out of the question. This is such a seductive time of year there - so tell me the truth about winter in VT with a toddler! What is there to do? How are the schools (are there alternative options like Montessori?) What are the community options - like the Y or park and rec etc.? Thanks for the info,

leah

[amyamanda]

Hi, Leah! We moved from a northern suburb of Boston to southern VT last summer (Brattleboro area). I'm nowhere near Barre or Burlington, so maybe not much help, but I didn't find the winter in VT any harder than the winter in MA as far as finding things to keep us busy. I think your questions will have different answers based on which city/town you're talking about, and hopefully someone else will be able to respond along those lines. Also depends on whether you'll be right in the city or outside of it. We fell in love with VT in the spring, too...and came through the winter just fine. ;) Good luck, whatever you decide to do!

[sohj]

This tribal area is sometimes a little slow to respond...apologies :) and, strictly speaking, as I'm living in New York City, I really shouldn't respond here at all.

Here are some links to earlier threads about Vt, although these aren't answers to your specific questions, you may find them useful:
http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showthread.php?t=41897
http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showthread.php?t=76589
http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showthread.php?t=75361

There are some other good ones, too. Just change the setting on the VT page to show all threads for the last several years.

I love Barre. It is a good town and right next to Montpelier, which is the most walkable state capital I've ever been in. I'm not so fond of Burlington. Just my opinion, though.

Do you already know anyone in Vt? How did you hit upon Barre? I would suggest renting for a while and looking around a bit before trying to buy. And, I love winter up there. But, it would depend on what you are used to. I especially love the winters when February is totally, blindingly, sunny. But cold. And then I spend all day out of doors, snowshoeing or sledding, whenever I can.

:love

[vtmomma]

Hi,
Not sure when you posted. However, I just joined this group and found your post on moving to VT. I live just North of Burlington. I did join the YMCA in Burlington when I first moved here and it was great for us all. There are a variety of schools to choose from; montessori, renaissance school, gailor school etc. Essex has a very good rep for public schools. The winters make the springs so much more of a miracle!! Burlington just refurbished (Sp?) their science center on the waterfront, the Echo center which is very fun and cheap for a family pass. The Burl. library is also wonderful and they have groups for kids. Feel free to email me if you need any info!