Feldberg, 17 January 2006, -1C, heavy snowfall.
30 cm of fresh powder, just below freezing, and some pent-up energy to expend. What do hardcore GSPers do? We head to the highest mountain in the Black Forest for some good-ol' sledding.
In a few short days I am going to be enjoying the warm weather of the southeastern United States. But before that, I had to get some good snow time in. Freiburg hasn't had much snow this winter, but the Feldberg is just a short 40 minute train ride away, and there is plenty of snow to be had.
Mike and Hugh supplied the spirits to keep those who needed it warm, we lined our warm-weather shoes with plastic bags to keep our feet dry, and mother nature took care of the perfect sledding conditions.
Bianca, the South African unfamiliar with our snowy traditions, won the award for the best landing. Her sled reached maximum velocity off the snowboard ramp just before planting in a fresh snowdrift and sending her flying. She gracefully landed face-first in a fresh pile of white powder. And still she was ready for more.
We tried all combinations: three to a sled, standing, backwards, you name it. Though major injuries were predicted, we managed to pull off the whole event without any broken bones or bloody noses.
Soaking wet and out of breath, we hauled our sore bodies back down the mountain for warm showers and fresh clothes. I invested in a sled, so I'll be ready for another round as soon as I return. Next time I will even have a tan.
Flown by mariposa at 02:39 AM on January 18, 2006
thesis research at its best no doubt, cheers to all who made back in one piece :).
