Assorted thoughts from a day on the slopes

The first day of the snowboarding season brought me the following observations:

– If there’s a been a big snowstorm overnight and you’re driving the next day? Please. Clear all the snow off the roof of your car. Though the storm had long passed this morning, I had to deal with snow blowing off the car in front of me and onto my windshield.

– Midwest snowboarding and skiing depends on snowmaking and grooming. Without the first there wouldn’t be enough snow (or the season would be much shorter). Without the second, we would ride on frozen crud.

– More ski areas ought to have outdoor fire pits. There’s something very pleasant about coming to the bottom of the hill and being able to sit in front of a fire.

– I met a guy who is staying in the area for a few weeks on a work project. He came to our little local hill for some skiing opportunities. When he’s back home, he can drive to Wolf Creek, Colo. on a regular basis. Should I be jealous of him or pity him?

– Ski area chalets are places of chaos, but I love seeing the activity. Being out and active in the winter is an affirmation of life, and is much better for body and spirit than hunkering down in front of the TV.