Second time’s a charm, they say, and Paul and I proved it by once again turning the mountains and local haunts into our playground for a week. It’s like our own version of a spring break movie, minus the questionable decisions and plus a lot more snow.
Day Off Shenanigans
This year, I went all out and took a whole day off work to prep for Paul’s grand entrance. I tidied up the place and unearthed my ski gear, buzzing with anticipation for the skiing escapades and culinary adventures that lay ahead. I was battling the vacuum cleaner in the living room when I realized it was time to rescue Paul from the airport. At 10 PM, I was so zombified from exhaustion, I could have been an extra on “The Walking Dead.”
Paul’s arrival kicked off our spring break with a bang. We made a beeline to the nearest store to stock up on essentials: beer, wine, and snacks. Then, back home, we let our imaginations run wild with the possibilities of what adventures we’d embark on first. After consulting “The List,” we collapsed into bed, slightly buzzed and thoroughly excited. Thursday seamlessly morphed into Friday.
Epic Breakfasts and Lolo Pass
Our Friday began in the lazy, leisurely manner only late nights and good company can justify. We lived by our golden rule: “No plans shall be made until breakfast is devoured.” Our initial target, Rattlesnake Gardens, was a bust for breakfast, leading us on a culinary detour to the Rocky Mountain Grill – a decision that turned out to be nothing short of brilliant. Between my heap of savory goodness and Paul’s pancake feast, we created a breakfast sampler that was a sight to behold. Fueled by this feast, we were ready to conquer EMS shopping and Lolo Pass skiing. My ankle, recently on the mend, was put to the test and passed with flying colors.
Crystal Theater Misadventures
Saturday’s agenda was initially as clear as mud, but over breakfast at Rattlesnake Gardens, inspiration struck. We decided to explore the enigmatic Crystal Theater before heading to a cabin on Little Saint Joe Mountain the following day. Despite getting tangled in the thickets and losing our way more times than I care to admit, we eventually stumbled upon a well-trodden path. The Crystal Theater exceeded all expectations, offering backcountry skiing paradise. Our adventure there was marked by breathtaking views, a loose ski binding repeatedly fixed with Paul’s trusty Leatherman, and a mental note to find the trailhead more efficiently next time.
Adventures on Little Saint Joe
Sunday saw us teaming up with our buddy Ethan for a hike up Little Saint Joe Mountain. Despite the looming threat of rain, we pressed on, rewarded with stunning views of the Bass Creek Crags peeking through the clouds. Our evening ski was the highlight, with gusting winds and fast-moving clouds creating a dramatic atmosphere. Yet again, my ski binding became the bane of my existence, threatening to derail our fun.
Braving the Storm
The real adventure, however, came with an unexpected turn toward the existential. Amidst a brewing storm, a strange compulsion drove me to consider summiting alone, embracing whatever fate the mountain had in store. This dramatic moment, thankfully, passed, and Paul and I regrouped, narrowly avoiding an avalanche zone in our descent.
Warmth and Farewells
Our spring break wrapped up with a rest day filled with hikes, coffee shop lounging, and a hearty dinner at the Iron Horse. Paul’s departure marked the end of an intense, unforgettable four days. As I gear up for cycling season, I’m reminded of the power of friendship and adventure. Until next time, I’ll keep adding stones to our “Wish You Were Here” pile on University Mountain, hoping it doesn’t grow too large.
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