When the weather dropped dramatically last week, I began strategizing about the how to keep warm. My family's winter trip to the lake at Nemacolin Woodland Resorts is fast on my head as I think on what to pack and easy methods to dress my kids. Dressing the family for a ski trip getaway gets a lot of planning and strategy on my side. It's all about knowing what to wear, how to wear it, and the best time to wear what.

In general, dressing warmly for cold-weather is all about layering. I've written about layering once before regarding blog, discussing the hows and whys. When you're dressing for outdoor activities in cold weather, especially skiing, you have end up being smart about it. The proper layering for a day on the slopes search like this:

1. The first layer or base layer is should be made of wicking fiber. Wicking helps wick the perspiration away from body, keeping you moistureless. I made the mistake the first time I went snowboarding and wore long johns. Not recommended. Cotton doesn't do the secret to success. I like a few brands available in the market like Hot Chilly's, Athleta, Patagonia and I really like this base layer set from UnderArmour.

2. The second layer is your mid layer - This is what keeps you insulated. You desire a sweatshirt, turtleneck or fleece to keep the cold out. I personally am a fan of Land's End fleece pullovers. They're not pricey, they're comfortable, and they last.

3. Third layer is your outer or shell part. This is basically your ski pants and jacket, which need shield you from wind, snow and rain. They also should keep you warm while being flexible and moving with you. If it's your first-time on the slopes or you're like me and your bottom and also the snow seem to be magnets for one another, you're going to kiss the snow at problem.

A couple of rice I got a CUUTE snowboarding set from Under Armour. I felt exactly like a snow bunny all put on white. I thought my new fashion sense would actually make me a greater boarder until that first run showed me otherwise. Clothing coordination has nothing to do with proper turns on your board. One thing's for sure, it was hard to see where I'd fallen since the snow blended right in with my white and blue preset. I planned that! They looked something like this (with a matching jacket of course):

If you're hanging towards the lodge or don't choose be overly active, or if the weather is warm you won't need all the layers.

And what with respect to kids? You'll to help dress them pretty similar. Again, Land's End always has nice fleece pullovers and jackets and also bibs. The North Face is also well-known for their outer layers and not simply really fails at looking cool. Overlook the rest your hat, goggles, helmet, and mitts.

And there you have it. Everything you need regarding any family day round the slopes. Do you've got favorite brand that you love for your ski gear? Got ski pics to share? Join the discussion - we love to pics.