Well, if you have to be stuck in the frozen snowy north country, there are a few tried and true techniques to put a big smile on your face!First, find some soft snow that is over 2.5 m deep (7 feet). Then strap on your skis and carve some turns in the untouched powder.
We spent a few days doing just that last week, and I have to say it was quite a success.

Of course, snow stability evaluations have to be done because the avalanche hazard throughout the area was a bit on the high side.
We always skied the safe lines, but had more than our share of great powder.
The weather was warm, and the visibility was good for most of the time we were there, so it was a treat to actually see where you are going and where you have been!



Some of the crew that I was skiing with.

We were fortunate to be able to use sleds one day to reach a remote area for some more powder turns - and snowpack evaluation.
A winter wonderland, not too far from Revelstoke, BC.

Once we got to the desired location, we strapped on the skis and did a few great runs - on 'Lost Guide' Creek. You won't find that on any map, so don't bother looking.

Meanwhile, back at home, the highway twinning project was moving into high gear.
The big mechanical cutters were practically working in my back yard - only time will tell how much more traffic noise will result from the tree removal.
But guess what the long-awaited good news is today? If I manage to get all the lists checked and everything loaded, I could well begin my next roadtrip, after work today! And it is about time.
I am so looking forward to some warmth and lack of snow, and adventures that await down the road.