the makings of a perfect day

This week has been insanely busy, and richly rewarding. Pancake Tuesday (despite the turnout), fondue party Thursday night, 4 events Friday night, and a couple of satisfying tasks/connections accomplished.

Yesterday, I went with my friend Alinka to Tremblant - for a lazy half-day of skiing.
I snowboarded, she skied. And pulled me over all the flats. (I'm never going without a skier again!) The weather was absolutely gorgeous -- not a cloud in the sky, strong sun, and only -12 (-20 with windchill! only!)

It's president's day weekend or something so there were a ton of Americans (mostly from Boston) around. Adults who are Beginner skiers (tourist skiers) can be really dangerous, especially when they operate in groups. So I decided, that's it. I'm staying away from the green runs today. nothing but Blues for me.
And so I did. Rode blues and maybe 4 black diamond runs, at Tremblant. Chasing someone is also the best way to improve. My game is at a whole 'nother level now, and i can be very satisfied with the 2006-07 season despite only 2 outings. The weather was completely gorgeous, the powder was pretty darn good (surprisingly little ice), and I rocked Tremblant.
I fell enough too, especially on ice patches. I have the whiplash this morning to prove it, and a bruised elbow. (and yes, i wore a helmet and i'm very glad i did so.) But there was enough powder that i didn't care.

But really, so many other things made the day perfect: the weather, Ali's laid-back company, eating chile in the lodge (sooo hit the spot). I helped a lost kid, Ali found $10 in her pants. On the way out of Tremblant village, we did a bit of shopping, bought candy-covered caramel apples. Gave bite of it to a cute british guy on the shuttle to the car, and we waved goodbye to him as he was hopping around in his longjohns, changing in the parking lot. We saw 5 deer crossing the road - beautiful sight. And the sunset was strong and sweet. Topped it off with indian takeout from Jean-Talon.