summit snapshots...

Mt Catherine

2012-02-04T12:57:00.000-08:00

Seems like we've reverted back to Mt Catherine a lot this season. Hard to beat since it holds snow well, is close to home, and avy safe. Hillary and Jamie wanted to get out for a tour, so with a leisurely start we headed out. Found 4-6" dust on supportable crust, sunshine and good times with good friends.

Hillary skinning

On the summit

Heather

Jamie

Hillary in the old growth

Hillary in the Catherine chute

North Slope Chair Peak

2012-02-03T12:32:00.000-08:00

After such a good day yesterday, Ed and I headed back out into the mountains, this time the north slope of Chair Peak was the destination. It blew hard the whole night before, so Ed and I discussed the possibility of things slabbing up even more than yesterday. We came to the decision that we would head up there and check things out as we went, being cautious and ski cutting things. The wind was howling for sure, especially when we crossed the ridge over into the North Basin of Chair, visibility was low at times. We found some of the firmest slab that Ed and I have ever seen, at times it was so dense that it seemed like wind blown hard pack. I was a little concerned, we took a conservative approach and carefully picked out safe zones to leap frog down the slope. I dropped the first rollover and skied it very delicately, not wanting to tempt things. Ed dropped in, and tried to do a ski cut, but barely achieved any penetration. Then on the next pitch (with Ed below me in a safe zone off to the right) I dropped in and found some penetration on a pocket, next thing I know I hear Ed yelling, I veered off towards him straight lining unaware of what was happening behind me. When I reached Ed I could see the slide passing me on the left, I triggered a slab that fractured probably 300' at least, across and down the bowl. It wasn't real deep or real fast, but, I definitely could have gone for a ride, as it ran down the entire length of the slope down to the lake, 1500' below. After the slide, and the adrenaline subsided slightly we skied (again conservatively) down the debris pile down to the lake. It was my first time skiing with my Avalung in my mouth, head definitely on a swivel. Overall it was a great day again in the mountains, a good learning experience for sure, and good to be back out in the backcountry with Ed.

Ed skinning up, Pineapple basin and the Tooth in background

Quick, get warm clothes on!

It was blowing, hard at times

Looks ok here for Ed

Then, my turn, and this, yikes!

Looking down the debris pile

Ed in the debris

The exit

Across Snow Lake, back to the barn

Slot & Circus Couloir

2012-02-02T22:00:00.000-08:00

Ed called and was motivated to get out in the mountains and do some real skiing (i.e. not lift assisted). We initially planned on skiing Red and Lundin, but, in typical Brandon and Ed style indecisively changed our plan to ski north facing instead of west and south facing. Good choice it turns out, since the sun came out and baked things, but in the sheltered north recesses Mt Snoqualmie we found good powder. A little slabby and reactive (were able to kick off a couple small slabs that ran a ways, but beautiful day to be in the mountains.

Ed at the top of the Slot, Chair, Kaleetan in background

The Slot entrance

Ed dropping in

An amazing line

Down in the bottom

Ed skinning up the Circus Couloir

Booting the final 100'

Nice Views at the top, L to R: Bryant, Chair, Kaleetan, Roosevelt

Ed dropping in

Shallow slab that cleaned things out

Ed styling the apron

Ed booting out to the Phantom, heading home

Diamond Head

2012-01-28T22:00:00.000-08:00

Heather and I planned a visit to see her sister Carly in Leavenworth before she left for a new job in Colorado. Had a little time before Carly got off work, so decided to stop and tour at Blewett on the way over. Haven't had snow in a little while so conditions weren't great, but, still nice to get out somewhere new, and on the eastern slope.

Diamond Head

East aspect descent

Hyak Evening Stroll

2012-01-20T21:00:00.000-08:00

Did a couple quick evening laps up Hyak after Heather got home from work, dust on supportable crust, nice evening.

Skinning from house, always nice

Another lap

Heather

Out in the dark

Ask And Ye Shall Receive

2012-01-18T12:20:00.000-08:00

With crunchy snow and no recent snowfalls, we've all been hoping for some fresh snow. I did my snow dance and even included a request for snow in my prayers at night. :)

And it has snowed! A ton! Even you lowland Seattleites are getting a nice white blanket!

On Sunday, figuring it would be the safest of days to come in regards to avalanche conditions, we headed to ski the trees of Mt. Catherine.

Then, on Tuesday, after 2.5 feet of fresh, dry snow, we decided to tour up Hyak. There was actually TOO MUCH SNOW to get down the hill. We chose the steepest line and straight-lined it down; still, we both came to a stop on the flatter sections and had to unbury ourselves.

Waist-deep on Hyak

After one lap on Hyak, we decided we could have much better skiing at Alpental, on steeper runs with more consistent grade. We got fresh tracks on a few runs in Alpental before the crowds arrived once the freeway opened.

Above average, less than outstanding

2012-01-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

Since Brandon has become interested in skimo racing, we've looked for one or two races to travel to each year as there is only one in Washington state. This year, he thought it would be interesting and cool to participate in the U.S. Ski Mountaineering Championships, held in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. And it just happened to line up with our anniversary, so we decided to make a trip out of it.

Most of our skimo experience has been participating in Alpental's VertFest, in which 99% of the people are 'recreational' athletes, out to have a good time and get some exercise. At the U.S. Ski Mountaineering Championships, a vast majority of the participants were serious athletes. Some are sponsored as skimo racers, some as trail runners, some for both sports. Most have a legitimate training regiment and have really dialed in their techniques and equipment to a level that is quite impressive.

Photo courtesy of Kevin Krill @ http://crestedbuttephotography.smugmug.com/

At the start, I glanced around and noticed there were very few 'heavy' set-ups and most of the participants were in skin-suits. I couldn't heckle Brandon as he clearly fit in with the majority. :) A quick race summary for you:

Brandon participated in the race category, which covered over 8,000 feet of vertical gain and loss, including a couple mandatory bootpack sections. He is disappointed in his performance, having come in 32nd, after setting the goal of top 25, and being there most of the race. The main disappointment comes from knowing he could've done better if he had a better system of dealing with skin failure, which caused a lot of time loss on the last uphill.

I participated in the rec category, which covered a little over 3,000 feet of vertical gain and loss. Within the first 5 minutes of the climb, I was really struggling to catch my breath, definitely feeling the impact of not living and/or training anywhere near that elevation. At this point, I was passed by A LOT of people and then looked back to see that I was near the back of the pack. Here, my goal shifted from trying my hardest to just not quitting b/c I was pretty discouraged at my position and the way I felt physically...I'm disappointed that I didn't continue to challenge myself b/c I could've done better had I done so.

If you want to get an idea of the race, check out this video (trust me, these people are moving fast even if the video makes it look like they're just out for a walk):

At any rate, we were both glad we did the race and we look forward to continuing to improve in all areas.

Brandon reserved us an awesome cabin in Driggs, so we returned back to the cabin to eat well and relax for a day before our return to home and work.

Sourdough pancakes (made from a starter) with huckleberry butter, an egg, and bacon...

I love having a hubby that is such a good cook!

We spent a full day in front of the fire reading.

the Colter Cabin; I could totally live here.

Tenderloin in hollandaise sauce; Beet, Celery, and Chevre salad...

seriously, how did I get this lucky?!

And finish it all off with Pecan Sweet Potato Pie

It was a great anniversary weekend, with a perfect combination of comfort, pleasure, and even some of that pain that we somehow enjoy.

New Years Day

2012-01-01T16:53:00.000-08:00

After great skiing on New Years Eve, and warm weather supposedly on the way we didn't know what to expect for weather / snow on New Years Day. Looking out in the morning revealed blue skies and maintained cold temps! Ed came up with his friends Brooks, Eric and Christy and we all headed up to Mt Catherine. We found great snow, good stability, and not too much wind. Two laps of fun and we headed home. Great way to start the New Year!

The crew near the summit

Christy

Eric straight lining the narrow exit

Brooks

Heather

Cabin Fever Cure

2012-01-01T16:34:00.000-08:00

I had the whole week off from work and was really looking forward to some skiing and hopefully some nearby tours. But no...it rained the whole week. We went skiing most days anyway. We skied in everything from mist to torrential downpours. It was miserable.

So I adapted. I read for hours on end in my favorite chair, with my coffee/tea in hand. I did sewing projects. I organized cupboards. My vacation was SUPER relaxing but, I was itching to get outside in something other than rain.

On the eve of New Year's Eve, we got fresh snow!!! And then, as if that weren't amazing enough, the clouds cleared and we had a partially sunny day. What?!? This is Western Washington, not Colorado. Fresh snow and sun?!?

So, we headed off to tour Kendall Peak...

B on the summit

Mt. Rainier

B, making some turns;

although there were a couple large parties up there,

we had the whole bowl to ourselves as they were taking turns in the trees.

Heather skiing Kendall Trees

While we were out skiing, Brandon mentioned we needed to be back from our tour by a certain time b/c he thought we needed to spend New Year's Eve in the city, being social and doing something fun. I didn't want to be rude but I was thinking I really don't mind our usual stay-at-home New Year's Eve. But he kept insisting that we should do something so I went with it.

He suggested that we could drive into Seattle for dinner and then go dancing. I was not super excited but, again, I went with it. After dinner, we started walking towards the Neptune Theatre and I glanced up to see the marquis, 'Brandi Carlile' (in concert). And then I understood what this whole 'going out' thing was all about.

My sweet husband knew I wanted to go to this concert but had decided not to spend the money, and so, he bought us tickets and surprised me with them. I am a huge Brandi Carlile fan and have seen her in concert several times before. This was, by far, THE best concert I have ever been to, of any artist, any venue. They made it more of a 'party' event so the crowd was totally into it and the band just had a ton of fun. They played for 3 hours, while the crowd hollered and sang along. And just before midnight, the staff of the Neptune handed out champagne so we rang in 2012 in style. I toasted my husband and gave him a nice kiss... :)

Happy 2012 to all our friends and family! Cheers!

Family Christmas 2011

2011-12-28T14:41:00.000-08:00

We are always so happy to have family over for Christmas and hope to keep this tradition going for many years. Our family members say they come to hang out with family but we know that they actually come b/c we guarantee them a 'White Christmas'. Although it rained up until and after Christmas day, the white stuff did fly on the actual day, so we kept our guarantee. Some photos of the family fun:

Uncle Brandon hauls Pekay up the sled hill.

Pekay rides the snow unicorn.

The kids unwrapping their presents...

Calder liked the packaging much more than the actual presents...

Mmm...ribbon.

Pekay got this super cute kitty, home-made (by momma Tara, left) from a sweater...

...and a Star Wars Light Saber from Santa Claus.

The ladies tried on their new aprons (wow, how domestic!).

Tara, Sheena, Heather, & Jane

And the boys played with their new toys-
the low-flying helicopter was very interesting to the cats too.

Baby Nason stopped by for some play time with Calder...

but he spent most of his time climbing up & down the stairs,

with a little assistance from Don.

[I've already told Melissa & Jeremy

that I'm counting on Nason as my ropegun

to set all the hard climbs in a few years.]

There was much smooching of the little ones.

...and hugging, of course, Nana Teresa with Calder here.

We didn't get any pictures of the loads of eating that occurred because, well, we were eating.

We ate well, though, rest assured. This year, the cooking was somehow much less stressful and everything turned out according to plan. Weird, huh? No unexpectedly dry stuffing, overdone meat, overflowing pots of boiling water, etc. Even the dishes were done in quick fashion, thanks to helpful family members.

It was another great Christmas. We missed those who couldn't be with us, but hope to see you next year. I'll leave you with this final snow shot...as I type this, it is POURING rain outside. :(

We had grand visions of creating funny, large-scale snow scenes...

(Calvin & Hobbes style, if you are familiar)

but the snow bear and snow unicorn
were all we could really do with the lack of snow.

Next year, next year.

Christmas Eve Hyak Vert 120 Rando Rally

2011-12-24T23:20:00.000-08:00

Recently I was inspired by a group of skiers out of Utah, that were tired of traveling to ski race, so they started their own little underground rando race circuit. I sent out an email to some friends with an idea to start something similar around Washington. The email spread courtesy of Greg Louie and, before I knew it, we had a race set for Christmas Eve morning with a vert format. The vert format is basically a set course with a given amount of time to complete as many laps as possible. In our case, the course would be the Hyak ski hill, with each lap being close to 1000 vertical feet.

When the alarm clock went off this morning it was difficult to roll out of bed, especially since we were greeted with 34-degree temps and rain. When I walked over to Hyak at 7:30, there were only a couple people there, and it crossed my mind to bail. Then more and more people started to roll in, so it was on. By race start time we had 16 participants!

The conditions were pretty crumby, with off-and-on rain, fog, and 3-4" of glop. Skiing was challenging for sure, but after it was all over, it was worth it. We had a great time, there was suffering, but it sure was nice to start off the Holiday weekend with some good exercise. Hopefully another race will be on the schedule soon. Big thanks for everyone that made it out, and to my family members that came out to help with keeping time and bringing over some hot cider and pumpkin pie for after the race.

Approximate results below:

Seth Davis - 6 laps 2 hrs 2-3 min?

Brandon Kern - 6 laps 2 hrs 5 min

John Mauro - 5 laps

Greg Louie - 4.5 laps

Crispin Prahl - 4.5 laps

Heather Kern - 4 laps

Holly Walker - 4 laps

Kevin Curd - 3 laps

John Stimberis -3 laps

Melissa Chapman - 3 laps

Francine Curd - 2 laps

Elissa Eng - 2 + laps ?

Anne Melgaard - 2 laps

Cindy - 2 laps

Dawn Frearson - 2 laps

Katie Smith - 1 lap

Lining up to start

Into the fog

Brandon 1st transition

Seth Davis

John Mauro

Greg Louie

Heather Kern and John Stimberis

Melissa

Holly Walker

Elissa

Anne, Dawn & Cindy

Pumpkin Pie and Cider for our efforts

Fail

2011-12-12T20:11:00.000-08:00

Quickly put together a ski movie for North Bend Film Fest, it didn't make the top 3. Hopefully the top three this year were better than last year, because the top three last year were pretty lame. I guess it wasn't aggro enough? Well here it is, not on the big screen.

The Hy(ak) Life from Brandon Kern on Vimeo.

Kendall Peak

2011-11-30T19:52:00.001-08:00

Ed called and wanted to ski at the pass, I was a little skeptical, as the weather hasn't been great, Ed brought up some friends and then I joined them. Conditions were great, good snow, pretty good coverage, and great weather. Was good to get out with a friend I haven't seen for a while.

Ed dropping in off the ridge

Ed making turns

Nice

Seasonal Affective Disorder

2011-11-20T18:57:00.001-08:00

It's the strangest thing...my body & mind seem to have been 'off' the seasons for some time now. I waited anxiously for summer to come, anticipating the warm sun and the scent of hot earth. By mid-August, when it hadn't really come, I had to mourn it in a way so I started looking forward to fall. Well, that's when summer came and I had already moved on, you know? I enjoyed the sun when it finally came, don't get me wrong, but I was thinking of fall colors, huckleberries, and cool night bonfires. And then fall happened really quick, it seemed like.

So the other day, I went for a hike with Anne. She had never hiked Ingalls and since it is a classic, we headed East, thinking we might even get some sun. Sun, we did not get. As we got closer & closer, I became concerned we'd be hiking in dreary rain, but when we got out of the car, snow flurries began to fall. Pretty quickly, we were hiking in a full-on blizzard, with wind so hard you had to turn away from it.

Reuben was covered in snowballs by the end...

There are three main highlights to the Ingalls hike: the brilliant larch trees, tame/aggressive mountain goats, and huge views of Mt. Stuart. On this particular day, Anne got to see none of the highlights. The larch had already turned, the mountain goats were probably sleeping in a cave b/c it was a crazy blizzard (duh!), and Mt. Stuart was nowhere to be seen. At the top of Ingalls Pass, I kept repeating "Mt. Stuart is like RIGHT THERE" emphatically, but that didn't help Anne see it. :)

Wrapping it up here...While we hiked in snow, I was ecstatic, happy to be heading into winter. And then, I had the weirdest thought: "Get ready for several months of this (sigh)." It was fleeting, but concerning nonetheless. I love winter! It is my favorite season. I live someplace where we don't see ground until June. I better not feel like sighing on the first snow. How could I think such a thing?!

Home, starting to look like home.

Have no fear...we got out skiing on Friday and Saturday in dry, fluffy powder. The sigh of dread was replaced by a joyful squeal. I must've been temporarily suffering from seasonal affective disorder but I'm cured now.

Chikamin Peak, the view from our living room

Montana

2011-11-12T19:23:00.001-08:00

I went on my semi annual Montana prairie dog shooting / coyote shooting / deer hunting trip last week with my friend Mike from work. With La Nina last year and then the plague, combined with snowy cold weather there weren't a lot of dogs to find. The deer populations took a hit as well, with neither Mike or I getting a deer. There were a lot running around but they were either on private no hunting land, with fawn, or wrong species. Oh well, we had a great time, spent a lot of time hiking some beautiful country, drank some Jack (Yukon that is), hung out with cattle ranchers, even watched a John Wayne movie on a barely functional TV courtesy of the ranchers guest trailer.

Mike with a coyote we called in

Big, beautiful, eastern Montana

Warm Sun?!?

2011-11-10T18:43:00.001-08:00

A couple weekends ago, we made the last minute decision to go East to Vantage with friends Hillary & Jamie for some climbing. The weather report said a high of 42 but we were hot in our tee-shirts and wishing for flip-flops. No complaining from me!

Hillary on rope

Jamie

B was full of energy but we were all tuckered out.

Betties at Smith Rocks

2011-10-15T11:44:00.000-07:00

A crew of us Betties went to Smith Rocks last weekend, catching a great fall weekend on the rock. It was super cold when we arrived and set-up our tents; our tents were frosted over the next morning. Each morning, we enjoyed coffee (thanks Anne!) sitting in the sun in front of the massive rocks of Smith.

On day one, we spent a good deal of time hiking around trying to figure out where to climb. Eventually, we got on some routes at Pleasure Palace and Mesa Verde Wall. At Mesa Verde Wall, we met some cool people while we waited and waited and waited to do Cosmos and/or Screaming Yellow Zonkers. I finally lead Screaming Yellow Zonkers but, by then, it was getting late...so I took it down and we headed out on the long hike back. It was a beautiful hike with the full moon shining on the Crooked River and reflecting off the rock faces.

Dawn, Christy, and Anne

Christy

Dawn...it wasn't as slabby as it looks here.

We had more luck on Sunday, climbing several routes at the Dihedrals, all of which were fun and relaxing. A huge rock fell off a route just to the right of us, a good reminder to us of the dangers of climbing. Thankfully, nobody was beneath that route and so there were no injuries.

Anne, in the crack

Christy

Me, having fun on 5-gallon Buckets

We were again some of the last to leave the crag...back to the car and then out to eat (Terrebonne Depot- awesome!) b/c we were all starving.

Monday morning, we awoke to rain and a sky of dark clouds. So we hit the road and headed home. It was a great weekend.

The Tree of Life

2011-09-27T18:18:00.000-07:00

A whole month has passed and we have no pictures to show for it. We've been climbing a little nearby, enjoying the summer that finally came in September and has now left us. We've been working on the yard (renamed the 'mud pit'). Not sure what else we've done with our time, to be honest.

I haven't done a movie review in awhile so I thought I'd post about 'The Tree of Life' (directed by Terrance Malick), which goes down as one of our all-time favorite movies.

Check out the trailer at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlYYreuK8vo. You've probably missed it in theaters so check it out on DVD when it comes out.

My review: This movie is breathtakingly beautiful. At a couple points in the movie, I sobbed at its beauty alone, not even the story line. It is not your typical fast-pace, Hollywood style movie; it is very artsy and different, sometimes too slow, but I liked it all the more for the ways in which it strayed from the norm. There were scenes I could've done without and it was a bit too long. However, the cinematography was outstanding, the music was perfectly complementary, the dialogue was sparse but meaningful, and the movie concept (not exactly a plot) was profound. In reading the reviews and talking with other people who have gone, it seems you will either LOVE this movie or HATE it. There is no in-between...all the more reason to check it out. It is truly a work of art.

Banff- Lake Louise Climbing

2011-08-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

There are some crags at the end of Lake Louise so we spent an afternoon trying out the climbing.

Rosie, the crag dog, joined us as her owners were somewhere else

Kyle, currently a flat-lander, feeling the vertical rock again

the lagoon climb...there was a tiny island

that you had to wade to in order to get on the rock.

Owen, pulling one of the mantle moves

Banff- Mt. Rundle Scramble

2011-08-24T19:31:00.000-07:00

The hike was strenuous and steep but the scramble was terrifying. The guidebook author listed this as an 'easy' scramble with minimal exposure....guess we have different definitions.

Not too bad at this point...loose gravel on slab rock.

the boys heading to the summit

(Photo courtesy of J Finnigan)

Just ahead of us (yes, we are crabwalking),

the rib we were scrambling on was less than 5 feet in width

with fatal drop-offs (200+ feet?) and on either side...

Banff- Sentinel Pass Hike

2011-08-24T19:21:00.000-07:00

A hike with beautiful views of mountains, glaciers, wildflowers, meadows, and an alpine lake at the base of a pass.

Brandon, Owen, Kyle

Hillary & Jamie, photo of a photo being taken

Our sweet, slightly demanding friend, the chipmunk

very cool spires and towers...

Brandon on his way to Sentinel Spire

To get to the belay, you had to traverse this ledge with major drop-off below...

we didn't end up climbing the spire.

Banff- Tea House Hike

2011-08-24T18:58:00.000-07:00

We recently returned from a fun week-long camping trip with the Strom family in Banff National Park. We really enjoyed ourselves and it was great to see far-away friends.

At Lake Louise, we hiked up to a tea-house located at the 'Plain of Seven Glaciers'. This was a great hike with views the whole way, but the real reward was the chocolate cake and tea after the uphill effort.

Clara had the best view ride...Uncle Jamie, a.k.a. 'the elevator'

Kyle & Isaac

the tea-house

Isaac and Ethne play on the rocks

Mazama

2011-08-13T09:45:00.000-07:00

Brandon worked a 72-hour shift and I didn't want to sit around for three days doing nothing sooooo.....I coerced Anne into going to Mazama with me for some climbing & camping.

Anne, cleaning a route.

At the newer crags, the rock was more chossy but still fun.

Me, enjoying a slab route.

Anne, hanging at the belay of a really long 5.9.

It was 90+ degrees so we weren't crazy ambitious. We'd climb until we thought we might melt, then head to the river for a dip in the numbing water, and then go back out for some more climbing in the evening.

Local Pleasure

2011-08-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

We've barely been home this summer but have had fun in our own backyard the days we've been around. We've done some local hiking and climbing and enjoyed time with friends and family. We also went to a couple movies b/c the weather was so lame.

Dawn, Katie, and Heather
on the way down from Snow Lake

on a chilly 'summer' day.

Snow Lake in August...I decided not to swim that day.

Melissa with Nason, Jeremy with Winders,
on our way to Rachel Lake

Nason & Melissa @ Rachel Lake

Nason getting a diaper change with a view.

Carly & I enjoyed a 90+ degree day of climbing in Leavenworth.

We've also gotten out a few times to our secret climbing crag, Kacheelus. On this day, we took Doug, his nephews Anton & Eric, and their family friend Ken to share the secret crag...pretty sure they loved it.

The wildflowers are late to bloom...
the hillside was covered in tigerlilies and beargrass.

H on a 10c

Anton onsighting an 11d,

despite the black lichen dust layer.

Doug, happy after completing a fun 11a.

B at the top of a super long & fun 5.9.

Another long one, a really fun 10b that requires some gear.

We did two routes that required mid-station rappelling cuz they are that long...fun!

Oakridge Boys...and Girls

2011-08-12T10:30:00.000-07:00

We drove down to Oakridge, Oregon to meet up with Ed & Julie for some mountain biking. They found us a sweet free camp site right on a warm, refreshing lake.

the view from camp :)

We rode the Middle Fork Willamette ride (34 miles), which goes along the river at a mellow incline, so mellow that I began to worry that we'd have to do just as much work on the way back, but it turned out to be a coaster downhill.

Ed & Julie

Heather

Much of the ride was creek-side so that was cool...

Ed, a blur as he passes by.

The next day, after a great breakfast at 'The Trailhead' restaurant, we finally hit the Alpine trail right at the heat of the day (1pm-ish). We didn't want to do a shuttle and we also didn't want to ride road, so we chose to do an out-&-back on the trail about 17 miles total.

The downhill was super awesome, one of my favorite downhills ever!

B has some good video footage which we will post once he's had a chance to edit it.

CD'A Relaxing

2011-07-24T12:04:00.000-07:00

We ended our trip with a stop-off at Dad & Jane's in Coeur D'Alene.

We were only there one day and a couple of nights but it was good to catch up and relax. We enjoyed some walks around Jane's trails, went to an art gallery showing in Post Falls, pet the dogs & kitties, and ate well.

Fishing on the Madison

2011-07-24T11:55:00.000-07:00

We left Bozeman and headed just South of Ennis, Montana to meet Brandon's dad for a day of fishing on the Madison river. They fished in the evening and didn't have too much luck.

And then they got up early the next day and caught a ton of fish...but, of course, you'll have to take their word for it b/c they didn't take the camera. Brandon is sitting here with me saying he caught several that were 'THIS big!', holding his hands out in measurements that keep growing larger & larger. :)

Bozeman Area Biking- Bangtail Divide

2011-07-24T11:47:00.000-07:00

They say the 'third time is the charm' and so it was with our third ride in the Bozeman area. We packed up our Gallatin Canyon campsite and headed down Bridger Canyon to ride the Bangtail Divide trail, which we were told was in excellent riding condition by the guys at the bike shop in town.

But before we headed out, we needed some lunch...this is an illustration of why we need a camper. This whole trip was one lesson after another of why we need a camper. Yes, the time has come...

This ride was both scenic and technical on the uphill...

and also quite fun on the downhill. Yay!

Bozeman Area Biking- Little Wapiti Creek

2011-07-24T11:32:00.000-07:00

We packed up from our great campsite up Hyalite Canyon and headed to Gallatin Canyon, as it was closer to some rides we wanted to do that we hoped would have less snow. Once there, we regretted leaving our beautiful campsite and spent far too long looking for a good one, finally settling for an ugly pay site right next to the highway.

So it was almost 5pm by the time we started the 14-mile loop ride on Little Wapiti Creek. The area is noted as 'grizzly country' so I was nervous...we both wore bear bells that jingled up & down the trail.

The guidebook promised it was beautiful and 'wild' country,

and, as you can tell, it was very scenic.

However, after the scenic uphill, we entered the woods for awhile where we encountered lots of impassable mud (mostly b/c it was tracked out by ATVs).

In the mud, I completely forgot my fear of grizzlies b/c it was replaced by a new and very real fear of being eaten alive, little by little, by mosquitoes. They didn't go anywhere near Brandon but I literally had swarms of them on me as I pushed my bike through the mud, unable to swat at them sufficiently.

Then we began the downhill, which truly sucked. Seriously. Just so you know, neither of us have ever thought a downhill sucked. There are variances of good to blissful, but never bad.

The 'trail' was essentially a huge rut of mud with washboards created by mole tunnels every few inches. It was difficult to control your bike in the ruts and so we couldn't really relax into the ride. Plus, it was impossible to pedal through the moderate sections b/c the rut was so deep and narrow that your pedals hit the sidewall.

Okay, we won't complain too much. The views were phenomenal, we got some good exercise, and we enjoyed some peaceful wild country without getting mauled. But in regards to this trail being comparable to the 'afterlife' (according to the guidebook), we have higher standards for heaven. :)

Bozeman Area Biking- Emerald Lake

2011-07-24T11:03:00.000-07:00

We had driven through Bozeman several times and thought it looked like it might be good mtn. biking country. The guidebook called "Montana Singletrack" told of trails that were comparable to heaven, using words like 'euphoric' and 'super sweet'. We were excited to test them out.

Our first ride, to Emerald Lake, was a bit of a bummer b/c we hit quite a lot of snow and thus had to carry our bikes a lot. Then, the thunder began to crack and lightning lit up the sky.

So, within a 1/4 mile of the lake and the hard-earned view (which we couldn't have seen anyway b/c the clouds were completely enveloping us), we had to turn around and ride as fast as possible down to avoid getting struck by lightning.

Rain bouncing off the pavement down in town,

while we bought groceries and waited out the storm.

Our awesome FREE campsite up the Hyalite Canyon...

The great thing about MT is that a wicked storm

can come and go so fast and its like it never happened...

enjoying our after-dinner campfire.

Harry! Hello?!?

2011-07-24T10:39:00.000-07:00

We spent a week visiting Brandon's grandparents, Harry & Lillian, in Victor, MT. We adore them and had a great visit.

Grandpa is forever ignoring Grandma when it comes to health related topics, such as taking his necessary pills, putting on sunscreen, drinking water and no coffee, etc. When she is exasperated with getting his attention, she says, 'Harry! (Pause) HELLO?!?'.

This has become standard communication around the Kern household the last few years as I recognize a similar listening trend between us (although it can be any topic that Brandon doesn't wish to hear about).

Grandpa, at 91, still haying the fields

B discovering that the step he planned to replace the rockwork on was rotten...

the job just got much bigger.

After the step was re-framed, B cut the pieces and began to lay them out.

Of course, we forgot to take a pic of the finished product...

Grandpa (Harry), Brandon, Heather, and Grandma (Lillian)

enjoying a sunset dinner on the patio

The storm came in just after Gpa had finished baling the hay.

Silver in July

2011-07-05T12:46:00.000-07:00

Once again, I was coerced into skiing off-season, but this time I actually enjoyed it. Melissa suggested heading to Silver Peak and we were able to drive right up to the snow, had only a short bit of walking with skis before we were able to skin consistently. Heiko & Brandon left a couple hours before us with the goal of skiing down the backside of Silver to Annette Lake.

They chose to skin through the meadow instead of the road and had to do much more ski carrying and bushwhacking.

Winders & I almost to the top

Heiko nearing the ridge

The view of Annette Lake from the summit;

Heiko & Brandon couldn't find connecting snow so they
stopped here and called it good.

The snow was pretty sun-cupped but it was still nice to be out

in the sunshine getting exercise and making turns.

Methods of Maintaining Sanity

2011-06-19T15:26:00.000-07:00

We are dealing with the cold/rainy/foggy spring (almost summer?) weather the best ways we know how. One method is to 'make the most of it' (i.e. utilize power of mind). To that end, Melissa and I headed out in the fog to tour up and ski down Alpental.

If only we could see the view...

The other method for dealing with the weather is to go someplace else (East!). We took an evening ride at Rat Pack in Cle Elum after work one day recently. It was POURING at home and we loaded up our bikes and rode in the partial sunshine.

Great idea, Mr. Kern!

Yesterday, we employed method #2 again and drove east to Cashmere, where we rode Devil's Gulch, a 25-mile trip. This was not my favorite ride ever but it was good exercise and a mostly fun downhill. Some trail sections have nasty steep drop-offs, the kind where you would die if you were uncoordinated enough to fall right there. And give me a challenge like that, I'll meet it...so, I walked a few sections as I just didn't think it worth it to ride through and potentially cartwheel to my death on the rocks below.

Soon we will stop posting all this depressing dribble about the weather b/c it will be sunny, right?!?!

Not Our Favorite Season

2011-05-29T09:14:00.000-07:00

Spring in the mountains is not the season of growth, new life, and human rejuvenation, as it is in the valleys and lowlands. All that spring means at our house is a slow melt of dirty, grimy snow that you can't even really call snow anymore. Its totally depressing.

Fall up here is amazing: beautiful colors, warm days, crisp evenings, and the eager anticipation of snow and winter. We've written multiple posts on the wonder and beauty of winter so you already know that we love snow, cold, and cuddling up inside with tea. Summer...well, who could not enjoy the warmth of the sun, the smell of the dirt, and the beauty of mountain peaks in blazing afternoon light? But, Spring, WHAT IS THE POINT?!?

If you can't tell, we've been a bit depressed here in the Kern household. Thus, we've been heading East a lot to save our souls. We seem to keep forgetting the camera so not many pics. Here's a quick run-down of what we've been up to in the last month or so:

Some fun bike rides on the Rat Pack trail in Cle Elum, ending with a beer and great grub at the Roslyn Cafe.
A great day climbing at Vantage followed by a surprise one-night stay at Cave B.
A few awesome spring exercise tours up Silver Fir -in tee shirts & sunglasses- to catch the last of the white stuff, which is rapidly turning grey & dirty.
A few more amazing days climbing at Vantage in the sun with friends.

Cave B = relaxation and eating ecstasy

Doug, pulling hard at 62 years old

B is getting back into it...

Doug blending in like a lizard

A great day...just what I needed, personally.

No Brainer

2011-04-16T19:15:00.000-07:00

When Ed called us a couple weeks before spring break to say that he had secured his cousin-in-laws' awesome slopeside townhome at Whistler for a super low cost for the week, we considered our options:

We could stay at home and watch TV, ski a little on the same hill we always ski, look at our piles of laundry and bills to pay, etc.
OR, we could ski at Whistler-Blackcomb, ski tour in the South Coast Mountain range, eat well in the village, drink beer, and hang with friends.

Hmmm...this was a very hard decision.

And so, after much thought and debate, we hit the road, crossed the border, and spent a really fun week with Ed & Julie.

On Saturday Ed and Brandon headed to Cayoosh Pass for a quick afternoon tour/exploration. They ended up touring up the side of Tzil and enjoyed great weather, snow, and were amazed at all there is to do up in Canada.

Crossing Upper Joffre Lake with Slalok in the backdrop

Tracks from a group of heli assisted tourers on the awesome North Face of Slalok

Ed drooling

Tzil

On Sunday Ed, Brandon a I headed out to Ski Cayoosh. We found poor visibility and had to turn around just shy of the summit, much to Ed and Brandon's dismay, as this was their second attempt.

The snow clouds rolling in on our way to Cayoosh Peak.

On the armchair glacier, ascending into the fog.

Heather popping out of the abyss of fog.

Tele-Ed

We enjoyed great snow on a nice line.

We also enjoyed a few days in-bounds...

a brief & rare showing of the sun.

On Thursday, while Julie & I enjoyed reading our books in the sun on the deck, the boys headed to Mt. Chief Pascal. I had a great, relaxing day but I felt a twinge of regret when I saw/heard how good the snow was.

Ed on the summit

Brandon & Ed

Sunlight on tracks

Video of Brandon and Ed's day on Pascall:

Mount Chief Pascall from Brandon Kern on Vimeo.

Sweet Catherine

2011-03-22T18:39:00.000-07:00

It's funny...I've been on the arm of Mt. Catherine several times but never skied it, even though it is literally in our backyard. We've always had some other goal and have bypassed Catherine. Brandon has skied it several times but this was my first trip to ski Catherine. I must say, she is my new favorite.

the classic hold your hand out close-up

B looking out, Granite Peak in the distance

Untracked powder in the trees...

...on a beautiful sunny day.

Could it be better?!?

[Chikamin Peak with Hidden Valley in the foreground]

Plake @ Hyak

2011-03-05T22:24:00.000-08:00

On the night of March 4th, Heather was at a friends house and I was home alone, when I heard the sound of a diesel idling outside. I looked out our front window and noticed a big rv right in front of the house, the occupants sitting inside looking at a map. It was snowing so hard I didn't notice that it was Glen and Kimberly Plake, lost, a few hundred feet from the Hyak parking lot, which they were trying to find.

The Plakes were looking for the Hyak parking lot to spend the night to ski the next day as part of Plake's down home tour. They showed up unexpectedly at Hyak because their original destination of Hurricane ridge was closed. Regretfully I didn't go out and offer directions, but had the chance to meet Plake the next day. Heather and our friend Melissa actually got to ski with Glen and Kimberly, while Ed and I skied powder on Mt Catherine. Pretty cool to actually meet a ski icon, and for Heather and Melissa to ski next to him.

Ed and I with Plake

Ed next to Plake's sweet camper with built in ski tuning shop

Ed skiing pow on Mt Catherine

Ed ripping

Mt Catherine

2011-03-04T00:05:00.000-08:00

Late posting but did not take pics, only video, so it took a little while to put a video together. Ed and I headed over to Mt Catherine last Saturday to find some low avy danger tree sking, which we found. We also found many groups of people with the same idea. We ventured into a line that Kevin Curd showed me last year (not the standard descent route) to escape the crowds, and found Kevin's and Greg Louie's tracks from earlier in the day. Fresh snow was still found and after two quick laps we called it a day.

Untitled from Brandon Kern on Vimeo.

Finally Video/Vimeo!

2011-03-02T14:28:00.000-08:00

The first of many (hopefully) vimeo installments thanks to Mac and GoPro Hero camera, enjoy!

Silver Peak 2/21/11 from Brandon Kern on Vimeo.

VertFest Video

2011-03-01T10:16:00.000-08:00

Here is a great video -created by The Storm Troopers- of the VertFest Randonee Rally. When I watch this, I think that everyone looks like they are going really slow, like they are out for a Sunday stroll. But I was there and can tell you that I was certainly not strolling (and I was nowhere near the fast dudes). In fact, I believe I was panting and growing concerned about my inability to take in enough oxygen. Anyway, enjoy.

http://thesnowtroopers.com/2011/alpental-wa-vertfest-nwac-fundraiser-21311/

Thanks to The Snow Troopers for the awesome filming and editing work. Check out their main site for other cool ski videos.

Winter 2.0

2011-02-22T23:09:00.000-08:00

You know, the only reason the snow began to fall here is because we made plans to leave home. For several years, we have gone on vacation for mid-winter break and been tortured by phone calls from friends about the massive dumps of snow at home. So when the snow started to fall on Monday and we saw the predictions for the next few days, we decided to cancel our trip and stay home.

Backcountry conditions were dangerous and there was literally nobody but us at Hyak so it was the best scenario: feet of fresh, untracked snow on completely safe slopes. We played all day on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Tele-Ed

Julie, barely visible thru the snowfall

Sometimes It Works Out

2011-02-21T22:24:00.000-08:00

On Saturday morning, as we were heading out the door packed and fed, ready for a day in the backcountry, we turned on our transceivers to check them and found that mine was not working. Ergh....no backcountry for us. But just a few minutes later, the phone rang and some friends were coming up to lift ski so we joined them in the beautiful sun at Hyak.

Take 2, Sunday morning, we headed out to try again on the same tour of the Crooked Couloir (and with a borrowed transceiver). But a few days of sun and traffic going up the Phantom made it look like an ice climb, not a skin track. There were a few scramble sections up waterfall ice, which would've been okay if we had brought our crampons and/or ice axes but we had not. And so we turned around, rappelling the few sections we had already come up. Another failed attempt to ski in the backcountry...

Monday morning, the sun had gone away and the visibility was too low for the Crooked, so we headed out to Silver Peak, which we have skied in the spring but only explored in the winter. After a somewhat long tour, we had a great couple of laps on an arm of Silver, even finding fresh soft snow that hadn't melted in the sun of the past few days.

All that anticipation of fresh snow had finally been rewarded with the real thing. On our way out, we stopped at the warming hut for lunch...

...and the snow began to fall and wouldn't stop for three days. More skiing pics to follow, only in much more snow!

Just When You Give Up...

2011-02-15T17:24:00.000-08:00

...the snow comes.

When Ed suggested we go mountain biking in February, Brandon thought this idea was 'blasphemy'. "It just feels wrong to be biking in winter. We should be skiing!", he huffed. Given that we had three sunny days and no new snow, I thought biking sounded fun. So we met Ed & Julie after work on Friday for some riding on the Black Diamond (town, not difficulty) trails.

Ed is always way ahead of us...

It was as if I completely forgot how to mountain bike; I fell a lot and now have some great bruises. After our ride, we enjoyed some beer and good food at the Swinging Arm Bar & Grill. A great way to start our weekend...

It seemed like we would never get snow again. Just in time for the VertFest Randonee Rally @ Alpental, we got a few inches of fresh snow to make it a bearable course instead of a slip session. And, by God's grace, the sun also came out and we had blue skies for the race.

The Traslin brothers and another Canadian led a brutal pace.

B is the last guy in this group at the second boot pack section.
[photo taken by Mill Creek Multimedia]

Ryan (the late Monika's boyfriend)
showing his "remember Monika stuffed kitty support" in a big way!
[photo taken by Jason Hummel Photography]

Mike Traslin (2nd place) showing off Tim's T-shirt, nice.
[photo taken by Jason Hummel Photography]

Heather accepting her first place winnings in the womens 1 lap race
[photo taken by Mill Creek Multimedia]

Post Race

We both had a lot of fun, if you call sweating, coughing up blood, and panting fun, which we do. I finally got first place, which isn't a big deal, but was a long time coming (I came in 2nd multiple years) so I was excited. B was disappointed in his performance but I think he did great and will keep improving.

As I type this post, it is snowing steadily outside and there is more to come, the weatherman says. Welcome, Winter 2.0, welcome.

Awe & Wonder

2011-02-07T11:38:00.000-08:00

I didn't know her well but I feel compelled to post a tribute about Monika Johnson, a backcountry skier that died out in the mountains this week.

On the same day that Monika fell through a cornice to her death on Red Mountain, I went for a jog in Snoqualmie Valley in the afternoon light. The sun filtered through the trees in a way that caused a short-circuit in my brain, an electrical storm, a seizure. Wearing my black VertFest tee-shirt, I went down to the ground and spent some time unconscious and in that 'in-between' reality.

Monika won the VertFest every year, hands down, beating many men and all the women by a huge gap. I admired her athleticism, but more than that, I admired the life energy that overflowed (literally could not be contained) through her smile and twinkling eyes. When you live life fully, as Monika clearly did, it is apparent to all who meet you immediately.

It wasn't until the next day that we learned about Monika's accident on Red Mountain. For the next several days, many in the backcountry ski community prayed for her safe rescue. On Saturday, the sad ending came in her body being retrieved from the backcountry.

My thoughts might appear disconnected and random but follow me a bit further...I am grateful for my life, even and especially with the affliction of seizures, for they serve as a reminder. I am grateful to know -as Monika did- that life is an amazing gift that we should spend not squander. For those of you with dull eyes, you will get the point too late. Perhaps as a final tribute in Monika's memory, God sent snow today for the first time in weeks; and, although I've seen it a bazillion times before, a smile spreads across my face and I look at it in awe. Go find the awe and wonder...

Monika Johnson- RIP February 2011

Whitefish Whiteout

2011-01-30T21:11:00.000-08:00

I have been dragging my feet on posting this as pictures of me in my skin suit are kind of embarrasing. But Heather made me. We left Friday afternoon for a 10 hour drive to Whitefish, skied the race on Saturday, and then dashed home on Sunday; crazy, but we had fun. I haven't been back to Big Mtn (now Whitefish Mtn Resort) since I was a kid so it was cool to go back. The mtn has changed a little, and the Kalispell-Whitefish area has really grown.

The race itself was a learning experience to say the least, it was my first pro or non recreational class race. I have done a few rec races and have done fairly well but always have been curious how much faster I could go with light gear. The main difference between rec and pro class is the vertical covered; a rec race is typically around 2k elevation gain & loss, pro class races can be anywhere from 4k to 9k. This race covered 4800 feet and had variable snow conditions and temps. At the starting line there were present 3 Canadian National Team members including the fastest guy in North America, the US national champ, and a few other fast looking spandex-clad folks.

The race started as they all do in a full sprint for a 100' or so with everyone trying to establish position and/or test the speed of others. The fast guys (about 6) began to quickly build a gap, as I stuck with a chase group of three, including #9 female in the world last year (very fast). The first guy made it to the top in 28 min, I was around 34. I felt good like I could increase my pace, but after the first descent and the first transition up I had a skin blowout, and then another and another. Eventually, I just gave up and boot-packed the last three laps. Instead of keeping pace with the three and finishing possibly top five, I finished 30 min back and in 8th.

Oh well, the goal for me in racing is to have fun and I did have fun. I learned a lot so hopefully my next race will be more successful. Heather, meanwhile, skied powder for a good portion of the day, and watched me at a couple points during the race.

The Start

Run!

Well into the pain cave

First up to down transition

Finished finally

The Only Dry Place in WA

2011-01-16T21:50:00.000-08:00

Ed & Julie kindly invited us to Julie's folks place in the North Cascades. The forecast was calling for rain everywhere, even in the mountains. A bit depressed, we hit the road and drove up to their cozy place overlooking the Methow Valley.

Ed Sr. and Kitty were gracious hosts and we had such a great time eating, giggling, socializing, etc.

We skied at Loup Loup on Saturday and it was the only ski area in the whole state where it wasn't raining. So although the snow wasn't powder, we weren't complaining...it wasn't solid ice or slush and we skied several fun runs without a single lift line. I can only imagine we would've been ringing out our gloves back home.

Snoqualmie & Baker

2011-01-10T21:38:00.000-08:00

The plan was to go where it was snowing....trouble was, it wasn't snowing anywhere in the Western or Mountain states. After much deliberation -and I mean MUCH- Brandon & Ed were still nowhere closer to a plan.

So, they decided to ski Roosevelt and discuss the plan for the next few days while touring. The skiing cleared their minds, as it was sure to do, and they committed to a plan to go to Mt. Baker.

Brandon tried out his new GoPro Helmet Cam on this trip...after some video editing, he'll post that footage. But alas, we cannot wait for that...and so I'll post so that our blog life can go on.

It's Raining Now...

2011-01-09T15:39:00.000-08:00

...but it was snowing last weekend. I'll post some pics of snow to make myself feel better.

We got out for a few laps in the backcountry: one through the trees on the south slope of Chair Peak, then a run on Pineapple Pass, then another down Chair. We were trying to get to the entrance to the north slope but kept getting cliffed out in the fog.

Every once in awhile the fog would break for a moment and I'd get a shot...

...but you literally could see nothing but your skis on the way down.

Lazy Bums

2011-01-02T18:39:00.000-08:00

Okay, so we've been really lazy all Christmas break, way lazier than normal for us. Today, we were supposed to get up early to go ski touring. 'Early' pretty much passed us by at 7am, 8am, 9am...seriously, we slept until 9:30. So after eating breakfast, getting dressed & ready, and packing a lunch, it was nearly lunchtime.

But it was a gorgeous day so we weren't going to not ski. We headed out to Chair Peak and were surprised that the lower bowl was completely tracked out.

We kept on going and then ripped our skins for a short wind-swept downhill slope to Snow Lake. Ate a quick lunch on frozen Snow Lake and admired some tracks on Roosevelt, our original goal.

Alas, we didn't have enough daylight to trek all the way out there, so we settled for a not-so-big slope above us. We didn't even have enough time to get to the top of this particular peak, but there wasn't much skiing above us anyway (mostly rocks and tight trees).

It was a great day outside in the blue sky mountains with my dear husband and we got a little exercise, so it was a success in those ways. Not a lot of skiing though. I think we need to get up just a tad earlier.

At the top of lower Chair Peak bowl, heading back.

New Years Eve Eve

2011-01-01T22:12:00.000-08:00

With conditions in the backcountry unknown and Hyak right outside the door with not much traffic on it still, the easy option was slack country laps at Hyak.

Melissa and Jeremy joined us

Nice evening reflection off Gold Creek Valley

Hyak Powder (sort of)

2010-12-29T21:46:00.000-08:00

With an empty house post-holidays, Heather and I tried to make the most of the 12" of new snow we got over the past couple of days. Unfortunately, a couple days before we got a foot or so with a freezing rain incident which created a nice breakable crust under the 12" of very dry new snow, so skiing was a little tricky especially for Heather without mega wide skis.

Heather avoiding the crust

Heather

One Great Day

2010-12-29T17:21:00.000-08:00

Brandon, Ed, & I headed out to Kendall Peak for a tour on Monday. While hiking in, we saw a mink in a tree...

this is not our shot...stole it from http://bigoldbear.ezabu.com/ (thanks!)

Our camera was dead that day so, sadly no pics of our fun.

After making the hump in, we dug a pit and decided the avalanche conditions were too risky. A hard call to make as the upper bowl was completely fresh powder with no tracks....but probably the right one as we later saw reports of triggered slides on similar slopes.

So, we headed back into the trees and lapped the tree slopes a few times. Back out to meet up with Ed's wife Julie and another friend, Tiffany, for some lift skiing. We skied fresh stuff all evening until about 9:30pm when the freezing rain began to pelt us and turned our fluffy snow into frosting.

Ended the evening with a hottie tottie -coffee & Kahlua. A fantastic day, in my opinion.

Red Mtn

2010-12-23T20:51:00.000-08:00

Adam and I headed up Red Mtn for a quick morning ski, Heather chose to sleep in. We haven't had any new snow in a week, and the wind has been blowing a lot, so we didn't have high hopes. Found variable conditions from powder, packed powder, wind affected, wind scoured, refrozen debris and breakable crust. Good to get out on my first real tour of the season.

Tracks from yesterday on the upper face

Adam on the summit

First turns, careful

Better snow at base

Central Pow Session

2010-11-22T19:02:00.000-08:00

The day started with lots of new snow, but no base, so Ed and I started apprehensively. Then Heather got out of school early due to all the snow at low elevations. We three scooted over to central for some laps with hopes. As the day went on it snowed, and snowed, and snowed. How the rest of the day went is pretty self explanatory.

Heather enters the white room

Heather

Tele-Ed

Heather in her fox hole

Brandon (watch and learn teleguys)

Going Back to Cali...No, I Don't Think So.

2010-11-18T17:54:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed a visit with brother Shawn and sister-in-law Lori in Port Hueneme, California. It was good to see them and their home & life of the past few years...and now they are off to Florida.

Tara, Josh, and 4-year old Pekay were there too. So, of course, we went to Disneyland! It was a first time for Brandon, Josh, and Pekay so it was a ton of fun.

This little trooper made a full day at Disneyland...she looks a little tired here.

I wish I had the pic of us on Space Mountain...we're all screaming except for Pekay, who appears to be gazing at the stars in calm wonder. When we left that ride, she commented, "I didn't know I could fly!"

We also had to visit Venice Beach to see the interesting people. After walking down the boardwalk, Brandon & I were both grateful that we live where we do...no crowds, no thugs, no need for security to deal with regular fights, etc. Instead, we have isolation, snow, and ski bums...just our style.

A 9-year old who won a world breakdancing comp the day before

Street entertainers (see dude flipping over the line of bent-over people)

A Swing in the Woods

2010-11-18T17:35:00.000-08:00

The snow is falling heavy now...think the long-awaited winter is here. Here are a few pics from home.

Chikamin Peak, from our living room

A couple weeks ago, I came home from work and was so excited to find my world blanketed in snow. I'm still like a little kid about snow...so, I ran inside to change clothes and get out for a walk. I walked in the evening light, watching the small flakes fall past my face and hearing the crunch of the snow beneath my feet.

Along my path, I found a wooden swing hanging from some large trees and swinging out over the cross-country ski trail below. So, of course, I had to stop and swing beneath the snow-laden boughs.

Last of Fall

2010-10-21T18:40:00.000-07:00

We headed to Leavenworth for a camping overnighter and some climbing, catching the last of the fall season. It was surprisingly cold but clear and beautiful. You all know already that I'm a bit obsessed with the beauty of trees. And, while we were in Leavenworth, we climbed a fun multi-pitch route called 'The Tree Route'. So, in honor of trees...

B looking contemplative...

B didn't like the chimney pitch

but I thought it was awesome.

B cramming gear in an under-cling

Midway tree

This pitch was more of a scramble between trees...

At the top

Ranger Carly's Last Gig

2010-10-03T14:35:00.000-07:00

I spent a night in the woods with my sister last weekend. It was her last weekend in the woods -for the season- as wilderness forest ranger of the Leavenworth forest service district.

We haven't managed to hook up for a weekend in the woods for the past two years so it was great to get out together. I'm sure she agreed, especially b/c I add a certain amount of adventure to any camp-mate's sleeping experience. Apparently, I sat upright and screamed, "Oh MY GOD!" and then settled in back to sleep, while she was left with adrenaline pumping and fear of a hungry bear attack. Good times with Heather...this is pretty typical. ;)

We had one sunny day with great views.

We camped at Tops Lake, near the PCT.

...which leads me to the next topic: the Pacific Crest Trail, many an outdoorsman's life goal. A good friend is talking about trying to do it -the entire thing- this spring. Its not official or for sure yet but I look forward to helping out when she commits to it.

Carly & I ran into a guy, probably in his 50s, who was about to complete the PCT solo. It sounds like a pretty cool experience. Hiking for that long is bound to have an interesting impact on your body, mind, and soul.

Mountains & Desert

2010-09-13T19:41:00.000-07:00

I tend to post only about trips so thought I'd post some pics of a typical, great weekend.

While Brandon worked, Melissa & I spent several hours picking huckleberries in the mostly-sunny mountains close to home. This clearly beat the hypothermic, wet conditions we've been picking in this fall. (It turns out that only Melissa & I are crazy enough to be out there in long underwear, fleece pants, and snow pants.)

We each got over a gallon!

Then, Brandon came home for a day so...we headed east for some sun.

We must've misread the weather report b/c we were prepared for high 60s/low 70s and it turned out to be 81 degrees. I wasn't about to complain though...it's always so nice to note the bank of clouds hanging over Western Washington as you head home after having spent a day in the warm sun.

Sun Valley & the Sawtooth Area

2010-08-09T18:10:00.000-07:00

We started our trip in the Ketchum area of Idaho with plans to mountain bike a few of the many singletrack trails there.

After a long drive out there, we rolled into some awesome free camping with creek access, visits from local deer, and tons of privacy.

We had a bit of a debacle involving my rear brake, but after a day of going between all of the local bike-shops, we had a solution and so were able to hit the trail that evening for a short introductory ride.

Leaving directly from our camp, we rode Corral Creek, which is an easy 7-mile trail through sagebrush, aspen, and forest.

H riding through a burn, which made for pretty wildflowers.

The next day, we ambitiously headed out to connect several loop rides (Greenhorn Gulch to Mahoney Creek to Lodgepole Gulch and down Imperial Creek = 20 miles). It was a great day but I was probably 'done' at the halfway point...this ride was much more physically and technically difficult, and also over twice the distance. Nonetheless, it was a lot of fun and very beautiful.

B had lots of time to take pics of me (b/c I was so slow!).

Hmmm...is she pushing her bike up the hill?!?

Why yes, I am.

When the hill got steep or just wouldn't stop, I'd do some

idiotic bucking bronco move and end up on the ground...thus, the walking of the bike.

Me again, riding in the aspens.

B at 'the top'...but this ride continued further up another peak.

Finally...going down.

And what a fun & scenic downhill it was!

The next day, we lounged in the sun by the Big Wood river to beat the heat. A bit later in the day, we rode Fox Creek connected to Chocolate Gulch, about 10-12 miles (?).

Amazing views on all of these rides...

just hill after hill that you can ride up & down and around.

The colors in here were marvelous.

Purple flowers against trees burned black, green foliage below,

and blue skies with white puffy clouds above.

Next, we headed to the Stanley area to ride the classic Fisher Creek trail. The uphill was an old road so it was much easier for me (more room to recover from bucking bronco silliness).

At the top, we clipped in and had the BEST downhill ride ever! It is just miles of perfect dirt, open enough that you could let go of the brakes a bit, and with these built-in creek drainages that slowed you down just enough. I actually hooted & hollered in glee on this ride...Brandon didn't hear it b/c he was long gone doing the same thing further down the hill.

Near the end of the ride, you emerge from the woods to a fantastic view of the Sawtooth mountains.

We had a relaxing lunch at Redfish Lake and freshened up with a swim. Then, with some time to kill before dinner, we headed out for another ride.

Having ridden nearly 20 miles earlier, I wanted to take it easy. We took the Basin Creek trail and then jumped off onto the Kelly Creek trail. The first trail was a bit boring, just a doubletrack with a very small uphill grade. But Kelly Creek turned out to be some fun, complete with multiple interesting stream crossings and cattle guards.

Back in town, completely muddy and tired, we went to the Bridge Street Grill and had awesome beer & burgers, while listening to live Bluegrass music. A perfect day...but that's not all...

After dinner, we went to the natural hotsprings near our last ride up Basin Creek. We sat in there until we were hot and super relaxed, then headed back to the campground. A super perfect day.

The next day, we hit the road again, heading for Ten Sleep to climb.

Ten Sleep, WY

2010-08-09T14:29:00.000-07:00

I will start this post by saying that we MUST climb more. Ten Sleep is an amazing climbing area that would be heaven to a 5.12/5.13 climber...but, this is sadly not us at this point in our lives. As such, we spent much time wandering around from crag to crag (and there are many), looking for more moderate climbs we could do without killing ourselves.

There would be one or two climbs at a crag that were below 5.12, so after doing the two routes we could manage, we'd have to move on. It was a bit frustrating...but we just need to become rad climbers and return.

Ten Sleep was named by the native americans,

b/c it was 'ten sleeps' away from two different camps.

This was the symbol for the village.

Out of the middle of flat farmland comes this lush canyon,

lined with limestone cliffs.

One of many cliff faces along the canyon highway.

You're probably getting a good idea of the amount of rock here by now.

On to some climbing shots...

Of course this looks way slabby.

H leading "Ice Station Zebra", a classic 5.9.

This one received a 'patriotic/military 5-star rating'.

Now, for a lesson on the hilarious rating system.

The levels of the best rating, 5-stars, all described above.

B climbing "Step Right This Way",

a 5.10 climb receiving the '4-star/porn rating' (see below).

OMG, we absolutely laughed our heads off over these rating descriptions...

but the best is still to come, the '3-star/kitty rating'.

B starting to get in the groove,

climbing "Insane Hound Posse".

In our guidebook, this climb was listed as a 5.10b/c. Some other nearby climbers looked it up in their older guidebook and found it listed as a 5.11a/b.

We think the guidebook authors truly cannot tell the difference in difficulty on climbs 5.11 and below. They probably walk up these routes with their eyes closed and in tennis shoes, shrug their shoulders and say, "It's 5.EZ. Call it a 5.10a".

Included so you see something other than a terrible butt-shot.

B at the top of a short, unrated 10c called "Shadow of Crowes".

Its hard to see me but I'm near the top of the rock...

follow the rope and you'll see the blob that is me,

another nice belay butt-shot.

"I Love the Big Top" was an awkward 5.9 receiving the '3-star/kitty' rating (see below).

When I got down from the climb,

I said to Brandon, "Meow, blah, blah, blah, meow, meow"

and he knew exactly what I meant.

This entire book is hilarious...but alas, I'm already committing copyright violation by posting these so I will stop now. Next time you are over at our house though, remember to take a look through the book and get a good chuckle.

B in a sugar coma after enjoying his ice cream

in a homemade waffle cone at Dirty Sally's.

The other issue we were having while at 10-Sleep was the weather. There were thunder showers every afternoon and evening. Fun tent-camping!

When we awoke on our last day of climbing, the thunder and rain had decided to start early. And so, we headed out of town one-day early and on to Montana to visit B's grandparents.

Montana Family Visit

2010-08-09T13:28:00.000-07:00

We always enjoy a visit with Grandma & Grandpa in the Bitteroot Valley in Montana. We had a great time catching up with them, eating well, and laughing a lot.

Grandpa laughed so hard at one of his own jokes that I became concerned he wouldn't be able to catch his breath! Grandma, sitting at the other end of the table, just shook her head and said, "I don't think he's funny anymore."

B building up the irrigation ditch.

Grandpa & Brandon walking back from the irrigation ditch.

This little fawn has been hanging out on their land

without mama for a month...

probably an orphan. :(

While in Missoula running errands,

we took a 10-mile ride with a nice downhill.

After taking this shot, while Brandon was still in my view,

I noticed a large bear on the side of the trail.

I actually said out-loud, "Oh, a bear!"

Then I started calling out to Brandon...

and pedaling fast!

Out for a walk:

Grandma, Renee & Shiloh the dog, Grandpa, & Brandon

B & Gpa on our evening walk.

B & Grandma feeding the neighbor horses.

After our time in Montana, we headed to Coeur d'Alene to see my family...read on.

CD'A Family Reunion-ish

2010-08-09T12:51:00.000-07:00

Somehow, we all managed to get together in the middle of summer in one place at one time...amazing!

We camped out, ate a ton, got caught up on each other's lives, and shot skeet. Yes, this is what Idaho redneck families do for a good time. And yes, it was a good time! :)

B & dad chatting while swinging on the chairlift.

The newest furry members of the family:

Harley (aka 'Motor Mouth') & Fiona

Heather shooting skeet (actually, shooting 'air').

Brandon giving it a try...his first time shooting skeet.

Jane on the gun, Judy in the background...

these twins are sureshots!

Carly on the gun, Heather on the thrower, Dad monitoring.

Wade, checking out his last shot.

Amanda...can you see her eyes?!

I wouldn't mess with this little one.

Jon trying out the AR.

Carly & Erin on the guns.

The family, including the furry ones...

Summer Fun

2010-07-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

I have had a busy summer of hiking, climbing, and hanging out with friends. No pics of all this fun, however, due to broken/forgotten camera.

Yesterday, Melissa & I hiked out to Tuck & Robin lakes. The book lists this as a backpack trip and it seems that most people do that, but we thought a quick in-&-out would be fun. It was totally reasonable with a light pack and an early start.

Tuck Lake was snow-free...

...which made for great swimming for Winders.

Ice floating in Lower Robin Lake.

A lot of ice & snow at Upper Robin Lake.

Just when we thought we wouldn't see the mountain goats,

they crossed the steep snowslope high above.

Happy dog, happy Melissa; Mt. Daniel in the background.

Mt. Adams

2010-07-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

I skipped this trip b/c -you've heard it before- I'm not too excited about summer skiing. It sounds like they had a great time, however.

The trip was not without the usual adventurous hiccups but that's all a part of the fun. A log blocking the road delayed the summit ski by a day. But the guys spent a relaxing day at Heiko's girlfriend's house in Hood River, watching the funny antics of Spider, her jack russell terrier (thanks for your hospitality).

The next day, they headed out again, this time no road blockage. Heiko got altitude sickness but kept on pushing hard. He finally got too sick and had to stop. Ed & Brandon continued on and made it to the summit. A few turns in not-great snow...and then Brandon, showing off for the helmet-cam, did an awesome turn that resulted in a fall in which his ski did not come off (had his bindings locked in), thus torquing the ankle in some bad way. I can't wait to see the helmet-cam footage of the swear/stress-fest after the fall! :)

No rescue needed (thankfully...we'll tell you the story if you ask), the guys made it out on their own. Brandon's ankle turned out okay after all...just a bad sprain. As with all of these adventures, they make for good stories afterwards.

Heiko, Ed, & Brandon

Taking a break

Headed up some more...

Ed & Brandon, at the summit

Way Better Than "The Hangover"...

2010-06-28T15:52:00.000-07:00

We spent a few days with friends in Whistler celebrating their bachelor/ette parties. No strippers, massive hangovers, or regretful awakenings. Instead, we enjoyed our time wandering Whistler village, ziplining, mountain biking, skiing, eating well, and relaxing with good friends.

On the chairlift up to the gondola...

the Peak-to-Peak gondola

Wishing we had skis

The bride-to-be enjoying a bucket drink

Julie going upside down on the zipline

Marci, fearless on the big one

No tigers, but lots of bears

"That's illegal!"

Going for the Gold!

B learning how to ride...

Ed, groom-to-be

Ed, Brandon, & Eric- after a ride

A good day ends with beer...

A 4-mile bushwhack into Cayoosh Mountain

Ed taking a break...

A few good turns...maybe worth the bushwhack in.

I've Made Up My Mind...

2010-06-03T20:03:00.000-07:00

There has been much debate in our marriage over the last few years about skiing. I know, there are plenty of other, much more important issues to debate, but we find this one most entertaining.

So the crux of the issue is that Brandon is OBSESSIVE about skiing. I love to ski. I love to tour into beautiful spots for some great, untracked turns. I love the exercise, the views, and the lack of people. Of course, I love powder, even the Cascade version of it.

However, I have made up my mind- I am a 'Winter Skier'. For those of you who don't ski tour, you're probably thinking, "Duh...that's when the snow comes." But know this: there is a whole world of crazies who obsess about how many days per year they ski. Some of those people make it a goal to ski at least once every month of the entire year. And yes, it is possible, but is it worthwhile?

As we were trudging up Silver Peak in the drizzle last Sunday, here were my thoughts on that question:

This is good exercise.
I can't run on the trails right now because there is still too much snow so...this is the best form of exercise I can get near my home.
Compared to sitting on my couch eating chips, this is definitely a better choice.
Compared to basking in the sun in Vantage while climbing, this is ridiculously stupid!

Pea Soup

Once I thought of climbing in the sun, thus began the rapid decay of my positive thought process...

Why the heck am I out here skiing when its nearly June?!
Where is the sun? Really, is it gone for good?
Does this wet, sliding stuff actually count as snow?!

Okay, you get the idea. So, Brandon can do his strange spring skiing with fellow crazy, best ski buddy Ed. And I will get a tan and enjoy some fun climbing moves in the sun. Debate over!

Cinco de Mayo Half Marathon

2010-05-29T11:43:00.000-07:00

You all know that I have always hated running. A strange thing has happened....No, I don't LOVE running but I no longer hate it. My friend Emily coerced me into running the local half-marathon. She has been patiently jogging with me for the past several years, talking comfortably while I huff & puff next to her. As we trained for this race, I actually got better at running (shocking to me...I really didn't think it possible), so that I could match her pace and even hold a conversation.

It rained throughout the whole race, which I actually prefer b/c it keeps me cool. And somewhere around mile 9, the weirdest idea occurred to me: "I should run a marathon!" Don't worry...I quickly banished that crazy notion. I did, however, enjoy the race. Maybe I'll try an ultra-marathon...running in the woods is definitely more my style. ;)

Look at that smile of enjoyment!

Next Time, We'll Buy a Waterproof Case...

2010-05-11T20:55:00.000-07:00

It was just last year when I posted 'flashback' shots, pictures from my childhood. I did this for two reasons: 1) the pics were cool and newly discovered, and 2) our camera was broken.

Here we are again, one year later, unable to post current pics. The reason? After committing to buy a new, more expensive camera (eeks!), we ruined it. :(

The camera took a little soak in a water-proof backpack when the hydration bladder leaked all of its contents. Good news: the backpack is truly water-proof...Brandon had no idea that the camera was sloshing around in 48 oz of water while he skied an entire afternoon. Bad news: the camera is dead.

So, for the time being, we will be providing image-less tales of our adventures. Maybe you will enjoy the more narrative approach...

Consumerism

2010-03-15T15:41:00.001-07:00

This article is a bit long but interesting.

The Gospel of Consumption Orion Magazine

(Posted using ShareThis)

P.S. Don't worry, I see the irony in my posting this just after purchasing a new, shiny Mac laptop. It is lovely...

VertFest 2010

2010-03-12T20:19:00.000-08:00

Somehow we were coerced into participating in the VertFest randonee race at Alpental again. So, on a beautiful blue-bird day, we slipped, slid, huffed, puffed, and 'skied' through the race.

The first half of the uphill race was extremely icy. Picture a whole herd of people (over 100) falling all over one another as they attempt to go uphill on a mogul run. Imagine two or three people creating a domino line of falling, limbs, poles, and skis everywhere!

Yes, it was FUN! Actually, it was strangely fun.

Check out this video of SlipFest 2010:

http://thesnowtroopers.com/2010/alpental-wa-vertfest-march-6-2010/

Scottish Lakes

2010-02-20T21:08:00.000-08:00

We had three bluebird days with friends at Scottish Lakes High Camp near Leavenworth. The skiing wasn't awesome, but we had a fun time turning in the sun anyway. And of course, we enjoyed eating, drinking, and hanging out with great friends in a quiet, beautiful spot.

B coming up the rise

Brandon & Ed, the explorers

Crossing Lake Julius with a polar bear (okay, just a huge dog)

Melissa & Winders

Julie, Ed, & Chinook the polar bear

Under much pressure from the hagglers in the crowd,

Ed pulled a back-flip...

even if he landed on his head (ouch!).

Upper High Meadows area

...going up Mt. Baldy

Ed near the top

An unnamed peak Ed & Brandon enjoyed

some nice tracks...

a few more...

an unnamed peak...to be skiied next year?

this hill, our last run of the trip, turned out to be the best...

Ed & Julie, Brandon & Heather, Melissa & Jeremy
and the pups Winders and Chinook

Ski 1000!

2010-02-01T20:45:00.000-08:00

I wish I had several pictures documenting Brandon's efforts to achieve the goal of skinning & skiing 1000 feet vertical every day in the month of January, but my words will have to suffice...so, picture this:

Brandon skinned and skiied in the worst conditions I have ever seen, including rain, dense fog, crunchy ice, freezing rain chunks, and ice-rink ice. You might notice the absence of 'snow' in that list of conditions. Sometimes, he would complete one up-&-down lap at 11:30pm and then complete another lap just after midnight, fulfilling the 'daily' part of the goal.

When January 31 rolled around, Brandon turned to me and said "Maybe I'll continue this goal into February." (Sigh). Let's just say that I was quite glad when he didn't go up the next day...but I am proud of him for persevering with the Ski 1000 goal!

Hubba Hubba Herd

2010-01-16T16:45:00.002-08:00

The skiing has been a huge disappointment this year, with the lack of fresh snow. However, the good news in Washington state this year is the thick waterfall ice, which, in most years is thin and/or covered in copious amounts of snow.

So to celebrate our 9th anniversary, we decided to climb Hubba Hubba in Leavenworth. Unfortunately, so did everyone else. Thankfully, we were able to get right on the climb, while the separate groups of climbers -totaling 10- chatted and laughed on a little slab route to the left.

Happy 9th Anniversary!

Of Men and Mountains

2010-01-04T19:53:00.000-08:00

I picked up this book by William Douglas -copyright 1950- and really enjoyed his writing on his explorations & experiences in the pacific northwest mountains.

"I stood in the silence of the gathering night, charting my course by it. Then the words my father had spoken came back: 'If I die it will be glory. If I live it will be grace.'

That was his evening star --a faith in a power greater than man. That was the faith of our fathers --a belief in a God who controlled man and the universe...

Man's age-long effort has been to be free...We can keep our freedom through the increasing crises of history only if we are self-reliant enough to be free. We cannot become self-reliant if our dominant desire is to be safe and secure; under that influence we could never face and overcome the adversities of this competitive age. We will be self-reliant only if we have a real appetite for independence.

Dollars, guns, and all the wondrous products of science and the machine will not be enough...

We need a faith --the faith of our fathers. We need a faith that dedicates us to something bigger and more important than ourselves or our possessions. We need a faith to which we commit our lives. We need a faith for which it would be glory to die. Only if we have such a faith are we free to live."

~Excerpt taken from pg. 329 of Of Men and Mountains

An Evening Stroll

2009-12-30T09:48:00.001-08:00

The other night, we took a quick skin up the back slopes of Hyak to the Grand Junction hut. Under the moonlight, the track was well lit and the snow sparkled like a million little gems. At the hut, we enjoyed treats and tea by the warm fire. Not so bad for right out our door!

Christmas at the Kern's

2009-12-29T12:26:00.000-08:00

We had a house-full on Christmas eve and Christmas day...but apparently, we only took pictures of Pekay! She's pretty cute and fun.

"I didn't know they still made wooden trees..."

(Charlie Brown Christmas)

Pekay and her new monster, Leonardo

Santa Claus delivers small gifts to Pekay in her boots.

Pekay made up a game of 'clean the snow off the trees'.

Heading up to go sledding.

Brandon and his sack of potatoes.

Wheeee!!!

Thanksgiving

2009-12-12T20:02:00.000-08:00

We spent the Thanksgiving weekend at my dad & step-mom's beautiful place in Coeur d'Alene. As always, it was a very relaxing stay. It was nice to spend time with family, eat pumpkin pie (Brandon had it for breakfast!), and enjoy the fresh air & amazing natural scenery above Mica Bay.

Jane and the happy dogs

Brandon & Dad

The weekend's project (other than eating)...

making gun parts.

Once home, we went behind our property

for our Christmas tree.

Don & Brandon heading back with our trees.

Feels Like Home...

2009-11-13T10:00:00.000-08:00

The summer bonfires under the stars were beautiful. The hikes in the crisp, colorful fall weather were exhilirating. But today, the snow is falling blizzard-style...and it feels like home again.

Winter has arrived.

Brrr...

If I were a better photographer, you'd see the brilliance

of these golden leaves against the backdrop of snow and evergreens.

On 9/11...

2009-09-11T21:52:00.000-07:00

Excerpts adapted from "The Holocaust Speech" by Pope John Paul II
March 23rd 2000 - At Israel's Holocaust Memorial

The words of the ancient Psalm rise from our hearts: "I have become like a broken vessel. I hear the whispering of many - terror on every side - as they scheme together against me, as they plot to take my life. But I trust in you, O Lord: I say, 'you are my God."'

In this place of memories, the mind and heart and soul feel an extreme need for silence. Silence in which to remember. Silence in which to try to make some sense of the memories which come flooding back. Silence because there are no words strong enough to deplore this terrible tragedy.

Men, women and children, cry out to us from the depths of the horror that they knew. How can we fail to heed their cry? No one can forget or ignore what happened. No one can diminish its scale. We wish to remember. But we wish to remember for a purpose, namely to ensure that never again will evil prevail.

How could man have such utter contempt for man? Because he had reached the point of contempt for God.

Again, we cry out: "I hear the whispering of many - terror on every side - but I trust in you, O Lord: I say, 'You are my God."

Fireweed

2009-09-05T12:26:00.001-07:00

We took a hike to Lake Lillian, just across from our house.

The fireweed is everywhere this year.

Mt. Rainier in the distance.

Local Bounty

2009-09-05T12:13:00.000-07:00

One rainy, cold day in early August, I suggested we drive up to check-out the progress of the huckleberry growth.

It took some convincing Brandon, who was sure they would be nowhere near ready.

Typically, we pick from late August through September,

so it was surprising to find bushes loaded with huge huckleberries.

At least it was surprising to Brandon...

but not to Huckleberry Heather! :)

Climbing in Paradise

2009-08-28T20:44:00.000-07:00

Finally, we get to posting the pics of the climbing in Kalymnos, one of the main reasons for the trip!

The climbing style and rock are very different from what we are used to, so it took some time to learn the rock and get comfortable. We were feeling super confident right when it was time to return home...I guess this means we'll just have to return!"

As per normal, we got lots of butt-shots. One of these days, we'll do some photo shooting from an angle other than the belay.

A scenic lower at the Palace

Another pretty lower-off view...

A bit difficult to see but B is in the upper left,

under the cave feature (orange helmet)

Heading to a nice layback tufa.

Holds, holds everywhere!

the view from a climbing sector:

Massouri, the main tourist town is below left

& Telendos is the nearest island (on the right)

Bouldering a cave in sandals

Tufa heaven

B is really flexible when he's freaked out on lead!

Doing the tufa splits...

Some more splits.

Slabs in Kalymnos are no fun...slimy, run-out, and terrifying.

After this supposed 3-star route, we decided to stick to the steeps.

My shirt matches the rope...

maybe I can finally get in Rock & Ice! ;)

Climbing at Kastelli at sunset.

A nice silhouette pic

The same Kastelli climb but your typical belay shot

(B is at the top, near the 'mouth' feature)

We finished the climb just in time to watch the sunset,

but a bit too late for a good pic.

Finally, a non-butt shot of Brandon...

a nice guy from Austria took this for us.

Kalymnos has become a climbing mecca...

many elite climbers travel here to work super hard routes.

Also, it is a short flight for most Europeans, so there are climbers

from many different countries there to try out the uniquely featured rock.

Kalymnos- Around the Island

2009-08-21T23:05:00.000-07:00

We took a 13-hour night ferry from Athens to Kalymnos. This was a difficult ride, the boat rocking through the waves, the wind blowing hard, and our own little cloud of smoke hovering over us (everyone smokes) the whole way as we attempted to sleep on the deck. Oh well...it was an adventure!

A similar ferry heading out from Pireaus

Our camping area on the deck of the ferry

...can you tell that I can't wait to get off the rocking boat?!

Harry's Paradise, our home away from home, was truly a paradise

I'm zonked on the bed, recovering from the boat-ride!

The view from our deck

A view within the garden

Harry's Paradise Restaurant

A nice relaxing spot at Harry's to drink iced Nescafe (the local afternoon drink of choice)

Alexandria, owner of Harry's Paradise,

a sweet & kind woman with a beautiful smile!

The highlight of our trip was Harry's Paradise...

a comfortable stay, amazing food, and people who welcomed us in like family.

Here with our Kalymnian family, including:

Emmanuela, Evokia (fabulous chef, daughter of Alexandria) & hubby Dimitri.

Everywhere a view to the ocean...

Wow, how fast does your scooter go?!

B on our island transportation

Sadly, I don't think my dream of a scooter future is going to work out...

it turns out I'm a terrible scooter driver,

mainly b/c my feet don't reach the ground!

Mmmm...tasty Gyro!

The view from our favorite beach, at Emporios

Even our toes were getting tan!

An old stone chapel in the ruins of Chora

The beautiful fjord of Vathi

Vathi's swim area

A beautiful boat harbored at Vathi

Showering the saltwater off...

The oceanside pathway to the chapel at Kastelli

Chapel at Kastelli

A chapel carved out of stone & painted white, in typical style

A hidden gem of a beach...near Nikolai's Paradise

Nikolai was a local who wanted us to take a ride in his boat (shown here)

but we never could figure out to where or for what purpose...we declined his offer.

A nice spot for lunch

Many of the frescoes have been painted over...this one is halfway revealed

Goats & sheep wander everywhere on the island.

A typical white & blue building

We clean up good, eh?!

Night-time ambiance at Harry's Paradise

Athens, Greece

2009-08-21T09:09:00.000-07:00

It was early July and I was getting cranky about our upcoming vacation. Every time I tried to plan the trip -a roadtrip to the Bugaboos?- with Brandon, he would come up with something else to do and evasively avoid all questions.

He was definitely 'up to something' so, finally, I called him out. His ultimate plan was to tell me nothing, pack my bags for me, and only reveal the big secret upon arriving at the airport...but I spoiled it and demanded he tell me what was going on. I was thrilled to find out he had planned a trip to Greece!

We took a lot of pics so we did our best to divide them up by category for your viewing pleasure.

Athens- is mostly just a big city. It is crowded, sprawling, and filled with crazy drivers. However, Brandon had picked a hotel in the middle of the Plaka neighborhood, which is the charming 'old town' part of the city, with quick/easy access to the ancient ruins.

The Plaka neighborhood, "Old Athens"

Marble steps -slippery with time & use- up to the Aeropagos viewpoint

View of the Acropoli on the 'Sacred Rock', from nearby rocky outcrop Aeropagos

Part of the Acropoli,

which contains great marble temples

built on the 'Sacred Rock' of Athens in late 5th Century B.C.

...not sure which temple of the Acropoli we're in front of?

The Caryatid Maidens of the Erechtheion

The Parthenon, built to honor the goddess Athena

Herodes Atticus Theatre, 161 A.D., still in use today...

The Acropolis Museum was built on top of ruins,

so this is the view through the glass floor

The Roman Forum, a marketplace built & used in 1st Century A.D.

One of many feral cats in Athens, lounging in the Roman marketplace.

The Tower of the Winds, 50 B.C.,

was used as a sundial, water clock, and weather vane

Scrappy has it good...

these Athens cats are always hunting for shade and food

...light streaming into a small church in the Roman Forum

A Jesus Fresco

A View Within the Agora, the marketplace used from 6th century B.C.

Temple of Hephaestus

Torso Sculpture...

Flashback- All My Best Memories...

2009-06-11T18:41:00.000-07:00

...from childhood are from the family cabin on Mica Bay, Idaho. To get to the cabin, we had to call grandma from the public payphone on the docks and she would come to get us in the yellow tuna boat. Across the bay and soon the cabin would come into view. We'd excitedly unload our suitcases and run into the cabin, which always smelled like fresh snickerdoodles (seriously, how did grandma time that just right?!). And then time stopped while we ran in the woods with sticks, swam in the clear water, rowed out to 'The Island', and roasted hot dogs over the fire in the evening sun. We were kids playing like kids should play...no tv, no video games, no hovering adults. It was a great way to grow up.

Great Grandpa, Aunt Ann Marie, & my Mom

the view from Grandpa's to Great-Grandpa's

Cousin Sara, Erin, and Cousin Amy

Grandpa & Grandma, Erin in the middle

Flashback- I Still Love Sleep!

2009-05-28T19:17:00.001-07:00

Flashback- Cowboy

2009-05-07T19:23:00.001-07:00

Some things never change...Erin, 6 years old.

Flashback- Sunshine Skiing

2009-04-24T19:00:00.001-07:00

I didn't grow up with family photos. We didn't have the photo albums, scrapbooks, vhs videos, etc. My mom has only recently dug up a whole bunch of pictures that I didn't even know existed. She's been working really hard to digitize all of these photos so that Erin & I can have them. So it has been like reliving my childhood...it's amazing how your memory is tied to visual images.

Today's flashback pic is of me on skis with my Grandma Virgi.

Spring Has Sprung?!

2009-04-02T20:24:00.000-07:00

Apparently my wish from a previous blog entry for a 'spring dump' of snow has been granted. We have seen LOTS of snow in the past several days. I just got home from a horrid drive (or shall I say 'sit') on I-90. It started snowing heavily in North Bend and accumulating quickly on the roadway. So I went slow in the slow lane, as usual, and watched all the confident/idiot drivers pass me. Then, I met them all, spun out across multiple lanes just a couple miles further. The lame part about this is that their idiocy affects us all...we were literally in a wall-to-wall traffic jam b/c of the multiple spin outs. If it were just me and a few other regulars, we would've been fine...slow, but not at a stand-still. As it was, it took me one hour to go 2 miles.

Enough about the traffic, here's the real point of this post: All this snow means I might be able to go skiing tomorrow! Hmmm...if they don't cancel school, should I play hooky?!

And the secondary point of this post: just drive slow and easy in the snow, please.

Arielle & Doug's Wedding

2009-03-21T17:59:00.000-07:00

I've now been a part of many weddings, but none as well-planned and fun as my dear friend, Arielle's wedding. Brandon & I headed to D.C. a week before the wedding, with the intention of doing a bunch of tourist stuff and helping out in the final wedding tasks. Instead, we enjoyed a whole week of tourist fun and good times with Arielle and Doug, who were remarkably calm and had the whole thing all ready to go! I was very impressed! The whole event was a display of Arielle & Doug's generous souls.

The Rehearsal Dinner was held at a restaurant with tasty tapas and sangria in every possible flavor. It just kept coming! It was a fun, lively atmostphere. A huge thanks to Doug's mom for a great night.

On the big day, we all got beautiful in the Hotel Monaco, with the St. Patrick's Day Parade going on in the Alexandria streets below. Arielle was a lovely bride, just beaming with beauty and happiness. (I know that's cheesy but it's true!). And Doug looked dapper in his tux and sunglasses. He actually needed his sunglasses, as it had gone from 20 degrees and snowing to nearly 70 degrees in one week!

The wedding was held at the George Washington Mason Memorial, a regal building that stands tall at one end of Alexandria. The ceremony was light-hearted and fun...Arielle even giggled part-way through and I couldn't help but giggle too. The reception was a lot of fun, with great food & drink, dancing, and a cariacature artist doing 'portraits'. Afterwards, we headed back to the Hotel Monaco for more fun and time with great friends.

We didn't get any pics of the wedding, but here's a good one from the professional photographer. Thanks again to Arielle and Doug for letting us be a part of your special day...it was a lot of fun and really beautiful to see. I love you, Air!!!