"This is my LAST season...really!"

Famous last words, I know.
I am already 1 1/2 months into my 4th winter season living in Vail, Colorado. Despite the potentially big New York television opportunity missed, I am more than happy with my choice to return Vail; to repeat what has always been an interesting and pleasurable experience; to do it all "just one more time..."

My reasons for returning are quite simple: To reunite with my close circle of snowboarder friends, to become a better rider (especially in the terrain park) and complete my third and final level of instructor certification, and to build skills for a future career in television.

So far, it's been everything I'd hoped it would be.

After a full-on welcome back week of social events and reunions, I quickly realized that as much as I enjoy exploring unchartered territory and traveling the world, there is no replacement to being near home in a familiar place in a familiar job, being surrounded by a tight-knit group of friends.

(Ludacris & The Roots concert)

There have already been countless numbers of casual gatherings among friends: dinner parties, <
pizza and beers at Mez,

and dances at Ski Bar...


Some of the silier moments include wailing out Journey's classic hit "Don't stop believing..." with Bade, "strangers in the night!"

baking "The Jeff cake" with matching broken ribs...


and hosting a last minute Christmas Eve Extravaganza (with an Evil Secret Santa Exchange)!

(We love evil secret santa gifts)

Every year is different, which is both good and bad. Just as quick as the winds pick up and a storm rolls in, the ambiance in Vail changes constantly. No two weeks are the same, depending on the time of year, the number of days off we get, who's in town, etc. In the blink of an eye, Gergz's coaching a Devo team, I'm on TV, and Stan Wu's driving the in town bus!!

I am continually reminded that this is a fleeting time in my life, which is probably why my finger remains glued to the camera shutter in order to savor every delicious moment.


So, here's to a new year; another year filled with good health and happiness, great friends and family, genuine experiences, and growth.