On Powder

In the sunny state of California, a ride on fresh snowy slopes is an experience to cherish few times a year.

The drive is serene with the natural calming greens, browns, and rocks often missed living in industry. The sun breaks over the encompassing mountain tops. Rays of light sneak their way between families of trees and highlight the trails with a slight tease. As the time inches closer, each passing turn becomes whiter with the welcoming of last night's snow.

I always step out of my car with a deep breath and stretch to embrace the clean air. The familiar cool feel and light mountain air helps ease the burdens left a few thousand feet below. Boots, gloves, and goggles are all the preparing I need. Only the weight of a single board is carried on my shoulders.

Looking from the lifts, I smile while watching new riders. Some of them laugh. Others are clearly frustrated. All of them stumble to find balance from having both feet locked on their boards. Still, not a single one of them have experienced the real face of snowboarding. We may all arrive in groups, but we ride alone.

Start a little higher. Run the trails a little steeper. Enjoy the quiet.