Head for the Mountains

Early AM wakeup came in order to get everyone (Jim, Linda, Chris, Mandee, Tanner, Tucker, Deb, Jake, Ian, and I) to Terry Peak for a full day of skiing. This is our second time skiing here and while it isn't exactly like the Colorado stuff we have done several times before, it is still a great local place to have fun.

Getting the kids enrolled in snowboard school and getting rental equipment proved to be a test in patience as the place was packed (bright and early) and the staff appeared to have an overwhelmed look on their faces for most of the morning. Ian has looked forward to turning pro as a 'boarder' since watching the last winter X-Games. Both Jake and I thought hard about boarding, but since we were only doing it one day we decided to stick (and have fun) with what we know - skiing. *** Below pic is of Ian at the start of lessons and the second is of Ian's uncle Chris and cousin Tucker***

The snow/powder and temps (lack of wind was huge) made for great conditions. The day was was ever changing with various ski partners as I spent time with Ian (after his lesson was over), trying to keep up with Jake (who skies really good), and cruising leisurly with Deb (my personal favorite). The place closed at 4pm and that's when everyone finally shut down.

A quick drive back to Spearfish, showers and clean clothes had us then heading to a great local Mexican joint for way too much food. The night was finished up with what has become a routine poker game. The winner was...

Mandee's crew (with Ian) is heading back to the slopes tomorrow. Jake, Deb, and I have an AM meeting with Black Hills State University Admissions folks for a tour of the campus and hopefully a meeting with the XC coach. Talk has it the snow mobiles might come out of the garage (I sure hope so).