it's all about lowering my expectations.

unexpected blessings from this weekend:
a new friend, julie. a good reminder that everyone has a unique story to tell.
three passes to ski for free, thanks to my brother, carter.*
keith's parents telling us not to fill up the truck with gas.
dan, for inviting me to be with his amazing co-workers.
the sugar-shack, hands down the best cabin i've ever stayed in.**

as a kid we would stay in our ski boots all day, eat chili in the lodge and ski from 8-4, when the last lift closed. this weekend was a whole new experience for me. julie's cabin is about 300 yards from the lifts so when you wanted to take a break you could just come in, warm up by the fire and grab a cup of hot chocolate. or, change out of your ski clothes and make yourself lunch. after skiing, the sauna was warmed up and waiting for you. it was the perfect weekend. i'm feeling totally rejuvenated.

regarding skiing: i feared i'd forget how-- good news! it's just like riding a bike. and, it snowed all weekend, making fresh powder- perfect ski/snowboard conditions. the funniest part of the weekend (though, not so funny at the time) was when i ventured out with dan, keith and dillon and they promised me i could make it down a black diamond. i made it down all right-- on my ass! they also decided it would be fun to go through trees and off the trails. ultimately, i prefer blue diamond routes. thanks for the optimism and encouragement, boys!

*thanks, carter, for knowing at least someone in every corner of the skate/surf/snow world. you have, by far, the most connections of anyone i know. it's a good thing i'm not completely immersed in your industry or else i'd be bugging you all the time.

**i didn't take any pictures because i was too busy relaxing. forgive me.