Backcountry

Backcountry.  Can mean many things.  The land behind your house.  Country thats behind you.  Untouched land.  Or you can do what most Colorado residents do.  Clip on an avalanche beacon.  Fill a pack with food, water and avalanche gear.  Strap on skis or snowshoes and start heading up.  Up mountains that aren't groomed, aren't part of a resort and aren't known to the thousands of tourists that visit the area.

Today, Mayflower Gulch.  An old mining area.  Current magnificent hiking spot.

 Kari and her excited dogs, Ripley in front and Kobe behind.

 Kobe...in his element.  Please notice the icicles on his chin.

 Demonstrating an avalanche beacon

Kari's a natural.  As many times as it took me to fall and get back up, she stood there patiently encouraging every moment!

Colorado newness!

 The most breathtaking views....everywhere!

 Snowboarding....at Beaver Creek and Vail

 Can it be awesome forever?

 Tim, Jovie and her sunglasses...Jovie is a natural on the piano and singing, Tim was taking lessons.

 Skate skiing for the first time. Up at Tennessee Pass.   I stood up for 2 seconds before eating it...several times!

 Skate Ski instructors/roommates....Kari and Jake (Ripley minus his head)

Backcountry skiings/snowboarding, another 1st time and with Kari again.  She's full of awesome-ness.  Mayflower Gulch.  Hike up.  Ride down!  (unless its your first time, then you 'fall' down!