7 day’s adventures consolidated into 2!

I’ve always had a passion for the outdoors and new challenges. From before I can recall descending mountains, riding bikes and fitting multiple activities into my day was the norm. The only thing that’s changed in recent years is that I work 50+ hours a week and have to squeeze those adventures and activities into the wee hours of the morning, evening and weekend.

I am far from a light packer, no matter if I am headed to Tahoe, Santa Cruz or out of the city for the day I usually come prepared with all the battle armor. The Subaru is equipped with multiple jackets, toys, sleeping bag, food and first aid kit (which comes in handy more than I’d like). I am the epitome of a road warrior, something I never imagined I would be. During the weekends, many of my friends assume I am off adventuring, and more often than not they are right. As much as I love the city, I desire fresh air, exercise and disconnecting from the daily routine.

It is amazing how quickly ones mind can shift, in just a few years I went from a ski snob to appreciating every hour I got on the hill. I used to scowl at the weekend crowds, lines and multiple hour commute. These days, I pack up and power through the 4-hour drive every weekend. I’ve endured 8 hour traffic jams, road closures, sleeping in my car and just last week I rose at 3 AM to make it up to Kirkwood in time for first chair. The drive is not as bad as it may sound, it is one place where I unwind, can think, zone out to music and catch up with friends and family over the phone. I appreciate the snow even more when I get there, and quickly forget about the week’s worries and stresses.

Some people think I am crazy, and question how I can do it all. I may have a few screws loose, and sleep a few less hours in the day than the average person, but I’d like to think it’s because I am motivated and driven by adrenaline and stoke. Something you can’t always explain to those who don’t do adrenaline sports. Skiing, surfing, biking provide a feeling of accomplishment and happiness, sometimes frustrating and difficult but highly rewarding. When you climb a mountain and turn around to ski waste deep powder, you quickly forget about how much your feet hurt or hips burned on the way up. The same goes for catching a wave or descending on a bike. All those times I paddle out and get smacked down by the ocean, I some how return again because those glorious smooth rides, speedy drops and glassy peaks are so satisfying. I can hardly hide the grin from my face when I come off the mountain or waves. Which is why with even more limited time in my days, I choose to satisfy my thirst for adventure.

After years of being a competitive athlete, I have enjoyed trying new sports and facets of skiing. These days I can be found in the backcountry, climbing new peaks, seeking fresh tracks and exploring new mountains. Having been fortunate to ski almost daily throughout my youth and college years, I am even more appreciative of the time I get to do it now. Fortunately this year we have been blessed with record breaking storm totals and bottomless powder. I’ve had some of the best days of my life and am always thirsting for more.

A glance at winter through my lens below: