It has been long overdue, but finally we were able to co-ordinate a trip into the big white snow. It worked out perfectly as I had just finished work in London and had a couple of weeks off and it was easy for Mel to take leave.
Charles and Michelle had an anaesthetic conference in Vale and very luckily had the kind offer of being able to use Michelle’s Aunt and Uncles apartment. Yes all was set for a great holiday!
Flights were surprisingly smooth - I sadly had a huge fever on the plane and I must have looked the site on board wearing my scarf, beanie, thick woolen smart coat, and two blankets. As soon as we walked through the arrivals, there were Charles and Michelle to meet us - smiles all around of course. Even though we had seen each other over December it still feels like we hardly see each other - something that we will hopefully be able to rectify with more regular get togethers.
Packing into what must be the worst made 4x4 ever - our Jeep Cherokee was a challenge as none of us are small packers, and with two large snowboards which could not fit on the roof - did not take too long and off we were headed for the Rockies!
Quickly we were on the road heading up into the mountains. Soon we arrived in Keystone which is where we were staying. Such a convenient apartment, we were so lucky thanks to Michelle’s family. Perfectly situated only a 3 min bus ride from our front door to the ski lift. Jet lag this time around was not that bad, but of course getting up early (care of early bird Charles) was at times a little difficult. All the ski-passes and hire of gear had been arranged before we got there so it was really effortless and within no time we were on the slopes.
Amazing how friendly and helpful the American ski staff are - really! What an amazing time we had, the snow was brilliant about 5 inches of fresh snow each night. It did take me a while to get it right but after spending some time on the bunny slope on day two I had gained my confidence back. Many runs up and down Mel falling far more often than me - not becuase I am better but simply because she is more daring! Charles of course showing off on his snowboard weaving in between the trees next to us. I tried to follow him which lets just say did not work out according to plan. The slopes were so well groomed and they even light the place up at night for night skiing which simply allows more hours on the slopes which is only a good thing.
Night skiing was amazing - you become fearless as you can not really see that far ahead of you and at times you do feel completely out of control but what fun. Michelle had lent me her helmet and I tell you it was like I was a skier transformed. Only Charles and I went and it was such fun. Daring and almost completely out of control - felt like we were back on Dean road on our skateboard simply trying to eke out that last extra bit of speed. Luckily we did not fall once.
Another amazing discovery on the slopes was ‘Buffalo Wings’. Spicy chicken wings with a creamy blue cheese sauce - an absolute must. Of course finished off with a special hot chocolate does help!
After skiing the legs stiff we headed for the spa within the Keystone Village. Brilliant way to relax in a huge jacuzzi. Of course being mad children Charles and I had to roll in the snow and then jump in the hot tub. Invigorating - the girls said we must be mad.
Sadly the holiday did not last long enough. Like all good things they finally do come to an end, but one thing is for sure - we are definitely going to be skiing more often.