Monthly Archives: January 2024

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The Older We Get- The Better We Were.

Howard Johnson’s at Tuckerman Ravine- 1984

So, I was surprised this week when my friend Eric, from Tahoe( formerly of Vermont), mailed me some pictures from way back when we skied Tuckerman Ravine together. Looking at these 40 year old photos, I thought back to a time when we laid down the only tracks one day in Dodge’s Drop ( and Eric had a cast on his wrist). We had some good times up there as we skied it many times together. But the thing that is amazing about this picture is the equipment we used. I mean, look at the skis. Probably 203 or 205 cm GS skis. Look how narrow compared to today’s equipment. 

External frame pack made for interesting attachments. 

The other interesting thing about these pictures was the external frame packs we used. We added cross bars with latches and wingnuts to secure the skis to the frame. He was from Vermont and naturally used wood. I was from the steel city and with the help of my dad, we used aluminum cross bars. All in all, with the boots secured in the bindings, our clothing and food for the week, sleeping bag and mat, the pack weighed in at around 85 pounds which was a pretty good load to haul to the shelters where we stayed. One year, I thought I would save some time and make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches ahead of time. By the time the week ended, that package of sandwiches had been slept on, eaten from, and generally the once nice, neat stack of sandwiches had turned into a peanut butter dough ball. Lots of memories came flooding back to me as I opened the envelope this week from my friend. 

In today’s world, people who climb and ski as we did, use internal frame packs. There are slots in the side of the packs that allow easy placement of the skis and the internal frames are much better suited to securing a lot of cargo. Lots of guys today use skins on their skis for climbing, and AT equipment to hike and ski to their destinations. Eric and I basically hauled our alpine equipment up to the shelter, and from there basically climbed up in our ski boots with our skis over our shoulders. Equipment surely changes and evolves over the years and skiing is no exception. 

Pro Skier Cody Townsend climbing with his internal pack and AT gear. 

The other things that evolve over time are the stories that we tell about the old days. Sure, there are embellishments, the runs are bigger and badder than perhaps they were, and the stories that we tell each other evolve with the passage of time. But like my friend Paul Vey still says many years later, our trip down Corbet’s Couloir at Jackson Hole, was the highlight of his athletic career. He played Div 1 basketball at UVM and that is still saying something. Somehow the beers taste better when the stories start cranking up. Eric’s wife Helen usually disappears when she starts hearing the old stories. She has heard them way too many times. But when pictures like these start showing up again, they remind me of a time gone by and the good times that we had. I mean, we are still at it – 40 years later. Maybe not camping and hiking Tuckerman Ravine anymore, but still skiing in some pretty good places and having a pretty good time. And still skiing relatively well. 

Eric and our other skiing pal Hutch at June Mt., California. Yes, the beer tastes better when the stories start flowing. 

So, if you get a chance, go look in your old photo boxes and take some time to review your old times with great friends. They will remind you that friendships are important and like equipment and stories, they evolve over time. Having friends that you can still do things with after many years is a true blessing. Encourage each other to stay in shape, stay at it, and make the effort to get together whenever you can. And always remember- the older we get……………the better we were. Thanks for reading. 

40 years later at Mammoth Mountain, California. 

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The Headwall at Tuckerman Ravine

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The Snow Day

Snowfall near the Donner Pass in California. 

You know, it was funny this week when I heard we were going to get a “significant snowstorm” here in Western Pa, that two local school districts closed …..the day before the storm. The city schools followed suit along with other districts as people prepared for what was being reported as a winter storm that we have not seen in a while. Winters have been relatively mild around here for the last couple of years so when a low- pressure system was racing towards us from the Gulf of Mexico to collide with a western approaching cold front, the forecasters had us all in a tizzy with news reports of …………………..possible 2-4 inches. I mean, close the schools the day before for 2-4 inches? The western people and the New England people probably got a chuckle out of that seeing that they measure storms in feet rather than inches. I will hand it to PennDot and the local municipalities that they were prepared ,and when the storm hit……… they were ready. But I chuckled when I thought back to snow days that we had off as a kid. Snow that was thigh deep and the sleds and toboggans came out from the basements. Those were snow events. 

The Yellow Bomb

Fast forward a little bit to when I was in high school and I drove my mother’s yellow Buick Century convertible to school, and to the ski slopes when we had a snow day. My dad put big honker snow tires on the back and Portland cement bags in the trunk for me to get around in the winter seeing that my mother basically quit driving after she rear ended a garbage truck. Whenever we had a big snowstorm and the schools were closed,( usually for a foot or more of predicted snow), I packed my skis in the car between the seats and took off for the mountains. My folks were rather trusting souls as they were happy we were skiing and really had no issue with me driving to the mountains in the yellow Buick, as long as I was careful. School was cancelled but that was the green light to head for the mountains.  My friends and I had instant transportation and packed all our ski stuff into the Buick and headed for the turnpike. That rear wheel drive vehicle with the massive snow tires fared pretty well in the Laurel Highlands. Even as I fishtailed my way up County Line Road past stuck vehicles. I learned to be a pretty skilled driver in those days and snow days were welcomed instead of being dreaded. 

I mean, we are kind of getting a little soft these days when we call off school the day before for a potential 2-4 inch storm- right? Come on. We would have laughed at that as a kid, and I even still laugh at that now. I remember getting a little rambunctious with my friends one day as we put the top down and filled the back seat with snow and became a mobile snowball arsenal much to the delight of our fellow classmates. The one time, the top would not go back up and it was a bit brisk for a few days while my dad put a tarp on the Buick and gave me the hairy eye as he took it to get repaired. But all in all, that was a good snow vehicle on snow days for a kid that loved to ski. My dad even put a vanity plate on the back that read” Ski Bus”. Kind of a funny Pa. license plate but got a lot of laughs and comments. Especially in the summertime.  

Time moved on post college and I drove 4 wheel drive vehicles. I still drive them today with confidence because I know that 4- wheel drive is great for getting up hills and through the snow. What people don’t realize is that they are not invincible, and they will slide just like any other vehicle. I remember driving to Western New York one time with my wife and young son and watching fellow 4- wheel drive guys fly by me. I said to my son Jack, ” keep on eye on that vehicle Jack- you will see him stuck in the snow between the northbound and southbound lanes soon.” Sure enough, the inexperienced driver was absolutely stuck as he slid violently off the road. Four- wheel drive is great but they are not invincible. 

My first 4- wheel drive vehicle- the Orange International Scout. 

As the years have gone on, I have driven in some amazing snowstorms. On the way to our Laurel Highlands, to Vermont and Upstate New York, and out west in some very heinous conditions. A few years ago , I was having dinner with my pals in Tahoe and it snowed 2 feet while we were at dinner. When we got to my friend’s wife’s vehicle, an Astro van, I asked ” what do we do now?” He said- “you are the designated driver tonight, just get in and drive,” We made it back to his house without incident even though these huge 4- wheel drive pickup trucks were passing me like I was standing still. Many other times with these guys, I end up driving a rental 4 wheel drive pickup over glass like roads like RT 395 on the way to Mammoth. Or battling I -70 in Colorado.  They laugh at my cautious driving, but I always get them there in one piece even though they drive in these conditions all the time. But for some reason, I end up driving, and I think in some way, they are happy to have me drive- to needle me a little bit.  If you ski, you are going to encounter wild weather and the main thing is to be patient, drive for the conditions, and take your time. Most of my skill at winter driving was formed all those years ago driving the “Yellow Bomb”. I am grateful that my parents encouraged us to ski,and allowed me to have a vehicle to get there, complete with plenty of weight in the trunk and good tires. 

My friend’s Sportmobile amidst the Sierra’s many huge snowfalls. 

As a post- script, even though we only got around two inches here, the Laurel Highlands, got close to a foot. So, their caution with their school districts was warranted. But my Jeep Wrangler is always up for the job as I made my way down the turnpike to the ski areas. Just like I have done for over 50 years. But this time, I have vehicles that are excellent tools for the trade, even if we don’t get the big storms we got as a kid. Enjoy the winter, make use of the snowfalls that we do get, and don’t be afraid to drive in the storms. The right vehicles will make your effort worth the while. Thanks for reading. 

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Age Fluid

I was headed to the mountains this weekend and was listening to the Rich Roll Podcast as per my usual custom. It keeps me entertained on my way up and I heard an interesting comment from Rich’s guest- Chip Conley. Chip is a noted author, speaker, hotelier, and founder of the Modern Elder Academy. His purpose is to create awareness of the benefits of aging and how to best utilize the tools that we have acquired as we age. He spoke about being age fluid which basically means that if you have a meaningful purpose in life- career, hobbies, faith, outdoor activities, you can have a lot of friends that are from all different ages. He says most people really don’t care how old you are chronologically if you are able to be a vibrant member of that particular community. Rich Roll even stated that most of his friends are 10 years younger than him because he is involved in fitness, and he is age fluid. His chronological age of 57 doesn’t matter. He just does his thing ,and he is involved in a younger community of fitness enthusiasts. 

My MTB group in West Virginia 

Chip also said another interesting thing when he referred to the three stages of life being like the life of a butterfly. In the caterpillar stage, which typically is in our 20s and 30s, we are consuming. Attaining knowledge and skills, like a caterpillar is consuming to grow. In our 40s and 50s, we are in the chrysallis stage where we are transforming to what will become the final outcome- a butterfly. Finally, when we are in our 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond, we are in our butterfly stage, having transformed from the caterpillar and flying freely and pollinating as we spread our experience and knowledge and enthusiasm to others in an age fluid atmosphere. 

I reflected on my drive as I heard this and thought about my life stages and where I am, and where I want to be. Interesting that on my Garmin Fenix fitness watch, which takes in lots of data from my exercising, it says that my biological age is 57. When I look at that I think that yes, I am aging chronologically, but as far as how I feel, I am not anywhere near my chronological age. My neighbor, who recently retired said to me not to attach a number to my stage in life. He says that it is all in how you feel. I am in agreement with that because as I assess my fitness and overall well- being at the beginning of a new year, I think- “can I still do the things I like to do?” Then of course I get out there and just have at it and don’t think much more about it as I ride my mountain bike and ski. I don’t feel any different and am thankful to the good Lord that I am still able to participate in these things and not show off……… but show up. And like the butterfly, I can share some knowledge and experience when asked. 

Keep it going!!! 

So being age fluid, is a positive way to live life. It not only exists for outdoor activities, but also for other walks of life that include career, and worthy causes, sharing some of the knowledge and experience like the pollinating butterfly. I do realize that chronologically I am moving down the road, but I do think that as we all age, we can continue to be a vibrant contributor to the world around us by volunteering, and helping people in many ways through our experience and our enthusiasm. Some of my best conversations are on mountain bike rides, on chairlifts, and sharing a meal with friends who generally are younger than me. I learn from them for sure, and they, in turn, enjoy some of the stories and experiences I have had. I rarely am asked how old I am. That is because maybe I am…………age fluid. Thanks for reading and keep on keeping on. 

Jan and I enjoying a laugh and being ………….fluid. 

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Accountability

Even when it is nasty

This is the time of year when people make resolutions for a healthier life. Among other things, the beginning of a new year is filled with promise, hope, and thoughts of making one’s life more productive and more enjoyable. One way to start that process is perhaps a new diet or way of eating, and sometimes a new exercise program. For those who have not done one for a while, it is a good idea to check with your doctor before embarking on a new program, especially if you have been a little sedentary. But nonetheless, a new exercise program or a return to former exercise program is great for anyone at any age. 

The woods are my gym. 

For me, I always like to have a goal to work towards. It doesn’t have to be anything big at my age, but a goal is always a good program for a new year. I am not a gym guy, so I am always doing outside things like mountain bike riding and hiking all year, and skiing when the season is upon us. I like fresh air and being outdoors and never really took to the gym. However, for a lot of people, the gym is a good place to start especially in the winter when the weather gets inclement. I see a lot of people walking and jogging in our local parks this time of year. I call them the New Years resolution crowd because many of them will begin, but then the numbers dwindle off as the year goes on. But for many of them, if they ease into it, start slowly, and be consistent, it can be part of their lifestyle that can make the resolution a reality. I can’t emphasize enough to start out easy and build up slowly. 

The Endura MT500 Riding Outfits. 

One thing that helps if you want to begin an outdoor exercise program is to get the right clothes. My friend the Shark always says,” no such thing as bad weather just bad clothing.” If you have the right clothing that keeps you dry and keeps the wind at bay, you can go out in the lousiest of weather and have a good workout and enjoy the ride. My Endura MT 500 jacket and pants are the ticket (us.endurasport.com) and when it gets real wet and nasty, I turn to a similar outfit made by Frogg Toggs (available at Dick’s Sporting Goods in the hunting department) that basically sheds water. But for the most part, the Endura outfit is the way to go. Ski socks, a wool skull cap under the helmet, and warm gloves are also key. 

But perhaps the most important thing to make an exercise program stick are friends who want to do the same thing. My best friends are my mountain bike and skiing friends, and we all hold each other accountable. Some days we may not feel like going out into the cold, nasty weather, especially at night, but our friends hold us accountable, and we bring the lights, the outfits, and have at it. At the end of the session, we may have a beverage, talk about the ride or the ski day, and then figure out when the next outing is. The best motivators are your pals who love to do the same thing as you do. So if you do not have a posse to hang out with and hold you accountable to show up……… find one. It is pretty easy if you join a group either found on -line, or recommended by shops, or simply showing up where people start their rides or programs in your local park. If you make the effort, you can really have some fun with a lot of people who eventually become your best friends in the world. No one beats my mountain bike clan or my ski pals. But the big thing about a group or a couple of friends, is that they hold you accountable. I will tell you that I have been doing this stuff for a long, long time and I really don’t need much encouragement or motivation. I have no issue skiing or riding in the rain. But I like to get people into these sports, and I welcome them and hold them accountable to show up. Most of the time it is successful, and our groups have welcomed a lot of newcomers over the years who now are motivating others. 

The Night Riders
Ski pals forever- we lost Proctor a couple of years ago on the right. Cherish your friends.  
The Mountain Bike Clan at Penn State
The local ski guys at Holimont. Been skiing with them for a lot of years. Andy, Hiller, Porter and Jamie.

So, if you are new to a sport and you want to have a resolution this year to get involved, find your group. The right ones will drag you out in the worst weather, drag you to the most challenging events, in rain, snow, sleet, hail, and make you smile the whole time. Ease into it, make your resolution stick, and get ready to be with a group who will be your best friends forever. Thanks for reading. 

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Support Your Local……..

Frick Park winter ride with Jeff Chetlin. 

Tired of the limited ski terrain due to terrible weather, and the huge “EPIC” crowds at our local ski resorts for the Holidays, our posse called an audible and met our pal Jeff and his wife Julie for a winter ride in Frick Park in the city of Pittsburgh. We included what I call the Tour de Death through Homewood Cemetery and it was a truly pleasant outing in the city with very little mud. We like to support our friend Jeff who has made nothing short of a miraculous recovery from a stroke. In fact, he bought a new E-Bike and re-assumed his role at the front of the pack, smiling like a butcher’s dog.( Thanks Mike Lange) He has appreciated the support while he has been recovering and is now fully on his way to living his life the way he wants to live it with his ever- energetic wife Julie. The key is support of friends. He would do the same for all of us and it was truly our pleasure to see him relish in the support of all his “outdoor type” friends. 

Bob K up and over the roller in Frick Park. Yes- literally an old cement roller that the local “Slagforce” installed for all of our enjoyment. 

Jeff always says that the mountain bike crowd is the most friendly and supportive group of people whom he knows. That is saying something seeing that he is a skier, mountain biker, snowmobiler, and avid, all -around outdoor sportsman. I would tend to agree. 

Thinking about support, especially locally, our favorite ski area of Laurel Mountain has had a rough start with the weather as well as some mechanical issues due to a power surge which damaged the chair lift motor and the snowmaking pump motors. Not to mention that during a recent storm, RT 30 was closed due to an accident and nobody could get to the resort. Our crowd has made it a mission to support Laurel during this time and show up even if all the terrain is not open. The folks on the staff there work extra hard to make Laurel a viable option during the winter, and it is a shame that they have been dealt a tough hand of cards in this early season. But again, our ski crowd,( many of whom are also in the mountain bike crowd), actively support what is going on in our local little ski area. We want to see it thrive and therefore show up even when conditions are not optimal. Happy to report that Laurel got a nice snowfall New Years Eve. Things are looking up. 

Hoping Laurel Mountain looks like this again soon. 

I think a lot about the slogan- ” Support Your Local…….” Every time I see a police officer, I thank them for their service. They have a tough job “protecting and serving” all of us in these tumultuous times. I thank anyone who has or is currently serving all of us in the military. Lots of local people who selflessly serve all of us. I support our local church as being part of a community of believers is important to me. John Guest, the famous evangelist, always says that you need not go far to support someone in need. The elderly in your neighborhood, local charities, a friend who is down. John says you don’t have to be a missionary overseas. Just look around your local neighborhood, workplace, school, and you will see opportunities to ” support your local…….” Give the local store support instead of spending your money in some big box store. Support the local businesses as they are trying hard to make it in this world today. There are so many opportunities to ” support your local……” I listened to the latest Rich Roll Podcast and his guest, Simon Hill, ( noted Australian health and fitness expert), said a very interesting thing. He was talking about service and serving others and said that one of the number one ways to lower stress and reduce blood pressure markers is to be of service to others. It has been clinically proven in testing individuals for health markers ,( cholesterol, blood pressure, VO2 max, etc.) that lifestyle changes like service can actually improve a number of markers in individuals who are looking to improve their health.

Darrell Porter and Ozanam helping us support Ronald McDonald House Charities. 

As we move towards 2024, Janet and I are trying to make more of an effort to support worthy local causes. Not that the big ones are not important, but keeping it local among business support, church support, charity support, is critical to keeping in touch with the local community. We are all in this together. 

Gretl Dupre restored Camp Soles. An outdoor camp for kids. Locally in our Laurel Highlands. 
The always smiling Gretl at her beloved Camp Soles. A wonderful opportunity for local kids to experience the great outdoors. 

Think about supporting your local friend, neighbor, family member, business, ski area, camp, and so many other opportunities in 2024. My mother always said…..” Happiness is like a perfume that you can’t sprinkle on others without getting a little on yourself.” So true mom. Happy New Years to all and enjoy the outdoors. Thanks for reading. 

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