Holiday shopping or skiing?

The title of my entry today should not be a question. We all know what the answer is.
I really feel bad for anyone that decided to finish up their holiday shopping today. You missed a great day. This year the majority of my shopping was online so I could have as much time as possible to ski on the weekends.
The weather was great and the snow was even better. Once again the only complaint I have is that my boots hurt again. I am sure it is time for new ones and the search begins tomorrow after another day of skiing. Looks like I will be getting myself an early holiday present.
The mountain was great and I can not say enough about the conditions and trails that were open. With that said sometimes I forget that so many people share my passion for the sport. I was skiing alone today and because I was a “Single” I was able to strike up conversation with many people who were ecstatic to be out for their first day of the year. I can relate because my first day was only 7 days ago. It was great to hear their stories, learn where they live and how short or long their trip was to enjoy a day of skiing. I enjoyed seeing that enthusiasm.
I have to admit that there are very few reasons why I would ever get out of bed before the sun rises but skiing is one of them. I guess I would also get up early to catch a flight but that is because usually that flight is for a ski trip.
I hope the slopes were great for all that were at the mountain, and for those who did shop today…. You know what to do next year.