Depends what your needs are and what makes you satisfied. I've been very happy with the season start. Having the well below avg cold has locked almost everything up ice-wise except for the big lakes. So much better than getting bombed with early snow on top of unfrozen ground. I'd say this is the best start for prepping for snowmoblie season in a long time, but, I'd be lying if I said seeing the cutter on friday won't be disappointing. Had that been snow, there would be some nice early season riding in several areas. Hopefully after friday we can get to more seasonal or below avg temps and build the pack late in the month. Squandering for me is if we go high and dry first half of Jan, followed by another cutter. That would be painful.