2010.03.27 BIRTHDAY TURNS

There's almost nothing that I enjoy more than skiing, so I feel fortunate each year when I can make some turns on my birthday in late March. Add in some fresh snow and the day becomes even more special. Last year in Utah was probably one of the better celebrations as two storms each dropped 15+ inches during a four-day weekend. This year, another storm lined up to hit Colorado on my birthday, and even though the snow totals were only 5-8", the skiing was still good. Devon and I ventured into the mountains to explore the Dry Gulch area, just east of the Continental Divide, not far removed from I-70.

Devon skinning up Dry Gulch:

Devon and I, taking a short rest while changing over to ski mode:

Devon carves smooth tele-turns in the powder:

Playing around with photo-editing software, sometimes makes for cool pictures like this one (Photo - Devon S.):

And sometimes, just one single turn can make your run, day, week, month, or even season worthwhile. Fortunately, on this day was able to experience such a turn. I came through a narrow corridor of trees a bit faster than expected and started to carve a left turn to control my speed over a small rollover. The southeast facing aspect on this roll had developed a slick surface underneath the new snow which caused me to get on edge a little more and hold my turn a little longer as I cut across the slope. The result was what I'll refer to as 'turn #29', since it occurred on my 29th birthday. It was one of those when you are suddenly submerged in white, unable to see through your goggles, causing you to hoot excitedly and smile ear-to-ear despite the snow crystals sweeping across your face. Its a moment that seems to last forever. Fortunately, Devon uniquely captured the moment on camera.

Turn #29 (Photo - Devon S.):

Unlike previous weeks where preparing for my thesis kept me away from the mountains too often that I am comfortable with, I was able to get out skiing on Sunday too. Spring weather appeared in the form of beautiful blue skies and sunshine as I enjoyed the leftover powder from the previous day's storm. I'm approaching (if this wasn't already) the last of my days at Vail, where I've been fortunate to ski so often the last few years. While I may complain sometimes about Vail for various reasons, its days like these, with great friends, that make me realize how fortunate I've been.

Ryan, Lizzie, and I in the heart of the Gore range (Photo - Joel G.):

2010.03.17 THE DOCTOR IS IN

Nearly six years after moving to Colorado and entering into the Toxicology graduate program at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center (as it was known then), the day finally came to showcase and defend my work. The last few days were spent finalizing my presentation and cramming in some last-minute studying for any possible question that I could be asked.

Flyers around school for my thesis defense:

Despite some initial jitters, I went through my 1 hour seminar without much trouble since I've presented my work in various formats more than a dozen times already. I also fielded some difficult, yet expected, questions following my seminar. However, the real fun was only just beginning. Following my seminar, I entered into my thesis defense with only the five faculty members who would determine my fate. While scheduled for two hours, the tough questions ceased after only 40 minutes when I was asked to step out of the room as they deliberated. Although I couldn't address all the questions and I was stumped on a few occasions, I thought that the defense went well and I was feeling very confident. Only afterwards did I realize that maybe it was a bit more difficult than I initially thought. However, my advisor (Dr. Manisha Patel) soon emerged with a smile, handshake, and 'congratulations, doctor'. I was ecstatic and received more congratulations before the meeting adjourned. In the end, I passed the final hurdle in achieving my Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Toxicology and can now be referred to as Dr. Derek Drechsel.

Sunny, spring weather and St. Patrick's Day made for a perfect setting as I relaxed, celebrated and enjoyed the afternoon/evening with family, friends, and co-workers at the Bull & Bush in Cherry Creek. However, my work is certainly not finished yet. I still have do make a few changes to my written thesis before having it published, perform some further experiments to address some revisions for a manuscript, and tie up some loose ends before leaving the lab.

As for my future endeavors, the first order of business is the much anticipated trip to Alaska for some ski mountaineering in mid-April. Then, I'll have to make the decision as to where to go next. I anticipate moving away from Colorado to pursue an academic post-doc and Oregon seems the likely destination at this time. However, who knows how things may change in the coming months.

During my presentation, I was able to thank some people personally who have supported me throughout my graduate career and entire life:

My family, some of whom made it to my thesis defense and others who will be present at my graduation in May:

A fantastic group of friends, who have fostered my love for the Colorado outdoors:

And Devon, who has shown unbelievably patience and understanding over the past years. With whom I can't wait to share more adventures in the future:

2010.01.30 FULL MOON OVER VAIL PASS

Taking advantage of clear skies and the brightest moon of the year, Devon and I spent an evening on Vail Pass. A thaw-freeze cycle prevented us from doing much skiing as we stuck to the established skin track and snowmobile trails. However, it was beautiful night and we had some fun using long exposures and headlamps.

Full moon rising:

Lighting Devon's skin path:

That's supposed to be two "D"'s, but Devon got confused:

Devon and I:

2010.02.06 MARBLE WHITE ROOM

I've long heard rumors of the deep powder to be found in the backcountry outside the town of Marble. So, I figured that if I was driving 4 hrs in that direction to pick up ski gear, I might as well check it out. $72 in discounted Black Diamond equipment, 1.5 tanks of gas, musical entertainment from a disco cover band with a pregnant lead singer, and two stops for tortas from the finest Mexican restaurant in the state was a small admission price for the snow conditions on this day. Much thanks to Jordan for guiding me to his favorite stashes and unselfishly playing photographer as I left my camera at home.

2010.02.06 SUCCESS IN ROCKY MTN NATL PARK

Finally, I can report a successful ski outing in Rocky Mountain National Park. To prepare for our upcoming ski mountaineering trip to Alaska in April, I got out with Eli on Friday to check out the skiing options at the popular Bear Lake trailhead. Despite some windy conditions, Eli and I pushed on from Emerald Lake to the Dragontail coulior. The huge, granite rock walls provided relief from the weather where we enjoyed great ski conditions. Below is some video of the day shot and edited by Eli, with musical accompaniment by Pearl Jam - Amonsgt the Waves. A beautiful song from their most recent album, Backspacer, which I enjoy more with each listen.

Eli operates Climbing Life Guides, a year-round service for rock climbing, avalanche education, mountaineering, and skiing. Based in Estes Park, Eli offers a multitude of local outings and expeditions across the world that are worth checking out. In addition, Eli does an invaluable service to all Colorado outdoor enthusiasts by updating snow and ice conditions throughout RMNP on a weekly basis throughout the year. A visit to his site is most worthwhile to see what Climbing Life Guides has to offer and check out some cool videos and info: Climbing Life