Dear Maine,

I never intended to move to you, not even for a moment. I grew up in Vermont and am proud of that heritage, but after meeting my wife, Kate, we moved to Sugarloaf. Her roots in these mountains run deep: she had grown up here, and her parents were among the first to raise a family at the resort. Her enthusiasm for this place is contagious, and it didn’t take long before I was in love, too.

Carrabassett Valley, hometown to Sugarloaf, is like the Vermont of my youth: rural, untamed, and unpopulated. Unlike many of your residents, Maine, my love for you revolves your mountains, not the sea. I wake each day to watch the sun rise along the flanks of the Bigelow range. The rivers are more wild here, the lakes more plentiful, and the woods deeper. The outdoor activities are endless, especially here at Sugarloaf. Of course, there’s the lift-serviced skiing, but ski touring, mountain biking, hiking, moto riding, and flying all occupy my time.

Another favorite aspect of this corner of you is our access to Quebec. Living just 35 miles from the border has allowed us to explore all that province offers; we joke that we can jump in the car, and it’s just a quick drive to Europe. We love Montreal and Quebec City, with most of our annual city time logged wandering their neighborhoods, soaking in their culture.

I’m surely not a Mainer after only 20 years here, but thank you, Maine, for adopting me.

Punderson is a broker at Mountainside Real Estate and lives in Carrabassett Valley with his wife and son.