"Annual" Ski!

Two Saturdays ago, my friend Heather and I made our "annual" 5-mile ski trek! We first made this ski trip either the spring of '05 or '06 (can't remember which), and had such a great time then that we intended to do it every year. Since this was only our second time to do this, we obviously didn't make it annually, (pregnancies and/or nursing babies on both of our parts will do that to plans). Since we're both all over that, we decided to get back to our tradition!

The trail we ski starts at T. Lake, and ends in C.L. We shuttle her van to the end of the trail, and then drive my van back to the start of the trail. It's not an easy ski...we do live in the mountains, after all. But the snow and weather conditions were just perfect, so we actually enjoyed it more this time than last. (I think it's partly due to the fact that conditions last time were somewhat icy. And it was our first time down the trail. You know, that unnerving feeling you get flying on your own two feet down hills and around unknown curves? Partly due to that).

The other boon to this trip is the end of the line. At the end of line is a diner that has the best burgers and fries around. Okay...that might be an exaggeration. Keep in mind that the only time I have their burgers is after a five-mile ski. (Well, after our ski and it's also the only place near MP that's still open for the season when my birthday rolls around. So unless Mark plans ahead for my birthday, that's the only option). But rather than make progress burning calories on a long, hard ski, Heather and I instead motivate ourselves with the thought of a bacon-mushroom-swiss burger with fries. It's only once a year, after all. And it's the best meal of the year. Can you blame us?

All in all, it was a glorious day. A great friend, a great ski, some great weather, great scenery, a great meal, and no kiddos....priceless!