Replying to Skiing powder with skinny skis

We just had a big snow here in VT and I really wanted to go to Killington to enjoy the brand new snow but I wasn't able to find the time, so I wanted to try going skiing in my backyard because I have a very large and steep hill free of trees. So I hiked up there and put on my skis, pointed them down and didn't go anywhere, I lifted up my ski to find snow caked all over the bottom. After clearing that snow I was able to ski down a little bit more and upon trying to turn, I was completely unable because: A. My ski was submerged 8 inches under powder and B. the semi-tall grass was trapping my skis under the snow. Maybe it's because I am not getting enough speed in order to effectively ski the powder or maybe I just have no clue how to ski this deep powder. I couldn't even attempt the bouncing technique because, well, I didn't have enough speed. Likewise, my friend is able to ski this to his heart's content because he has nice wide skis. Any tips and tricks on navigating these kinds of conditions are appreciated.