It’s about this time each year that my full on ski craving kicks in. Holidays have passed, the work routine has settled back in and the NW rain has returned in full force. I’ve found that the best solution to getting through the winter months is to embrace the winter wonderland that surrounds Seattle.

On Friday, I woke up to a socked in foggy morning in Seattle with the weather report predicting clear skies up in the mountains.

7: 35 a.m. – Skis and gear were packed and it was off along Highway 2 for a trek up to Stevens Pass.

8:22 a.m. – A critical stop at Sultan Bakery along Highway 2. I love this place. It’s often routine to tuck in for an amazing doughnut. I love seeing the locals and thinking about their morning routines. Do they come to the Bakery regularly? What’s the day ahead look like for them? Have they ever actually consumed one of the football size cinnamon rolls I’m debating purchasing?

8:45 a.m. – Up and around one of my favorite turns along Highway 2 staring down Mt. Index.

11:05 a.m. – Beauty of a day looking out across Stevens Pass.

2:11 p.m. – Legs burning on a trek down the backside enjoying the open slopes accompanied by the slight hum of the powerlines.

3:05 p.m. – A final run as the sun makes its way towards another day.

7:36 p.m. – The perfect ending to a day of sore muscles, good laughs and a great outdoor adventure.

9:06 p.m. – Asleep on the couch.