back and forth
Arriving here in Garmisch kind of felt like coming home. Beaver Creek was so intense--high energy, high stress, high altitude... and then it was off to Puerto Rico. Stacey and I took off straight from World Champs. We opted out of a trip home, and instead decided to take a little ocean-vacation, which is always refreshing in the middle of the ski season. We were in PR for a week, and managed to have countless adventures, soak up some sun, and play in the ocean every day during our stay. Read more about it, and see many many photographs here, on my blog.
From Puerto Rico we flew straight over to Europe and spent 5 days training around Dorfgastein, one of our Austrian bases for this season. After training in Hintereit (basing out of Dorfgastein) we flew over to Bulgaria. I was looking so forward to this years' trip to Bansko, as I remembered that town and course with great fondness. Not only was I excited to get on that hill again, but I was itching to return to the antique shops where the cameras are plentiful :)
From Puerto Rico we flew straight over to Europe and spent 5 days training around Dorfgastein, one of our Austrian bases for this season. After training in Hintereit (basing out of Dorfgastein) we flew over to Bulgaria. I was looking so forward to this years' trip to Bansko, as I remembered that town and course with great fondness. Not only was I excited to get on that hill again, but I was itching to return to the antique shops where the cameras are plentiful :)
As it turned out, the antique shopping was better than the skiing. For some reason Mother Nature decided to hex us with mass amounts of extremely thick and unrelenting fog. Unfortunately, the fog was so heavy that it proceeded to rot the snow (which was quite icy when we first arrived), and then the snow became another issue. Anyhow, we finally managed to get a few races off--a Super Combined on Sunday, and a Super-G on Monday--and get out of there unscathed.
After a bit of travel (and some adventuring to Neuschwanstein!), we finally arrived in Garmisch last night. It feels good to be back here...this is one of the classic hills that we return to every year, and something about having the American Army base here makes it feel more like home--there are always American fans in the stands, which is comforting and unusual for racing in Europe. I am excited to get on the hill for a training run tomorrow, and even more excited to race Downhill again!!!
See below for a few more photos from Bansko, and be sure to check out my blog as I just updated with tons of photos and words ;)
See below for a few more photos from Bansko, and be sure to check out my blog as I just updated with tons of photos and words ;)
the magician Ales in his ski room doing yoga between brushes
something Bulgarian
ski room containers
wall of rings and light outside of our hotel in Bansko
IT's here
1 days, 3 hours and 54 minutes. That's what the banner outside my hotel says; that's when World Championships starts. It's exciting, nerve-racking, and comforting to have this event here in our home country, and it's going to be a tough challenge to step up to. The hill is fo reals. That thing does not mess around. It is relentless. And I'm going to start sending myself down it tomorrow. Wahoo!
It's been a while since I've updated, but I just wrote a blog post for T2, so stay tuned for that. You will find it here sometime over the next week. For now, I'm going to throw it back to a few photos I took this fall in Utah. Find those under my "Yumminess-->Photographs" tab at the top of this page. Or simply click here. I'll add more as the days progress.
Keep checking in, as I have written some serious thoughts on skiing, presence, and risk and will be posting them, along with photos, on my blog very soon.
For now, cheer as loud as you can--we can hear you here in Colorado :)
It's been a while since I've updated, but I just wrote a blog post for T2, so stay tuned for that. You will find it here sometime over the next week. For now, I'm going to throw it back to a few photos I took this fall in Utah. Find those under my "Yumminess-->Photographs" tab at the top of this page. Or simply click here. I'll add more as the days progress.
Keep checking in, as I have written some serious thoughts on skiing, presence, and risk and will be posting them, along with photos, on my blog very soon.
For now, cheer as loud as you can--we can hear you here in Colorado :)
Just words
Because I have had my film camera lately, and haven't had the chance to get my film developed. When you shoot with black and white film, or any film with an ISO speed under 400, you have to get it developed at a photo lab that takes special film (which is now considered old-school, outdated), which you can usually only find in a relatively large city. So I have to either take my film to Portland, or send it to a photo lab in Salt Lake City (because I like their work--Nichol's Photo Lab). Anyhow! I only have iPhone photos from the last few weeks, which I have a hard time blowing up to blog-size images because of their seemingly unworthy computer-sized quality. But I will write some words on where my physical being and inner mind have traveled of late.
If you're looking for some new-age entertainment, I put together a video for Reusch, our glove sponsor, and released it on the day after X-mas. You can find that under my 'Yumminess--Videos' tab, or simply click here.
We dubbed ourselves the "Speed Unicorns" because we thought it was simultaneously stupid, awesome, and silly. "We" are Leanne Smith, Alice McKennis, Stacey Cook, Jacqueline Wiles, and myself. Please watch the video! It's the first one I've created in a few years, but it felt good to work with Final Cut Pro again. I had familiarized myself with the program relatively thoroughly a few years ago, but decided to focus my attention on other things over the last few years (music, art)...so it took a few days to get back in the groove.
Since the last time I updated, I raced in the DH and Super-G in Val d'Isere, France. The DH didn't go as planned--although I was speedy on the upper part of the course, I forgot my inner-ninja on the lower section and ended up in the fence. Alas! I emerged with out even one scratch on my face. I skied off with some bumps and bruises, sore but not disheartened. Although, I did break a pair of particularly fast skis that my technician Aleš had worked so hard on. That was certainly the most regrettable part of my day. Fortunately I have another pair that I can race on! And I gathered the strength and courage to race in the Super-G the next day, which went relatively well considering what happened the day before.
I traveled to Canmore, Alberta for X-mas with my family, which was gorgeous (as usual) and grounding. There is something about being in those vast Canadian Rockies that makes me feel so minuscule, humbled, and present. Although it can be a bit depressing--feeling small and unimportant almost opens me up, empties me, helps me to feel alive, real, and to live where I am in this moment right now. To understand that the mountains move, too, creates a sense of continuity, of connectedness and flow. Maybe I have no significant role in this world, but neither does a single fleck of dust, a skipping stone, a river boulder, a mountain. As a whole we create this space and time which we call here and now, we are all a part of the turning and jostling and whirling of this silly sphere. Somehow, although it will all be gone someday, I can feel like I am contributing something, like I am a part of something more tremendous, like what I ever hold in my hands at any single moment was once a part of another being--be it star, spider, seahorse, sisters of my greatest grand-parents. Maybe it sounds cliché and nonsensical, but the mountains are the explanation to my existence, what make me feel alive and grounded, the jelly to my peanut-butter.
Well that's enough mumbo-jumbo for now. After my life-changing (heh) trip to Canada, I returned home to Bend, OR for a few days before taking off for four grueling days of training on the World Champs hill in Beaver Creek. Our time there was incredibly productive--challenging and merry, snowy and American. It was great to have a short camp in the States before returning here to Europe for another 3 weeks of traveling and racing. So refreshing, like a Mimosa by a bonfire, or a PBR on a cold, snowy evening. But nothing lasts forever (the Tetons grow, on average, 1 cm per year! but most mountains are shrinking, due to erosion. the Tetons are young ;) and active) and now I'm back here in Austria.
I am sitting in my adorable little cabin, talking with Jackie about mountain growth and listening to the gentle rain pitter-patter on my tin roof. Although this sound is often comforting and allows me to breathe deeply, it is a bit worrisome considering the fact that we are supposed to race Downhill tomorrow. There is already not much snow out on the hill here in Bad Kleinkircheim, and this water certainly is not helping. But all I can do is hope for the best, let the sounds lull me to sleep, and hope the jet-lag doesn't interfere.
We'll see what I open my window to in the morning.
If you're looking for some new-age entertainment, I put together a video for Reusch, our glove sponsor, and released it on the day after X-mas. You can find that under my 'Yumminess--Videos' tab, or simply click here.
We dubbed ourselves the "Speed Unicorns" because we thought it was simultaneously stupid, awesome, and silly. "We" are Leanne Smith, Alice McKennis, Stacey Cook, Jacqueline Wiles, and myself. Please watch the video! It's the first one I've created in a few years, but it felt good to work with Final Cut Pro again. I had familiarized myself with the program relatively thoroughly a few years ago, but decided to focus my attention on other things over the last few years (music, art)...so it took a few days to get back in the groove.
Since the last time I updated, I raced in the DH and Super-G in Val d'Isere, France. The DH didn't go as planned--although I was speedy on the upper part of the course, I forgot my inner-ninja on the lower section and ended up in the fence. Alas! I emerged with out even one scratch on my face. I skied off with some bumps and bruises, sore but not disheartened. Although, I did break a pair of particularly fast skis that my technician Aleš had worked so hard on. That was certainly the most regrettable part of my day. Fortunately I have another pair that I can race on! And I gathered the strength and courage to race in the Super-G the next day, which went relatively well considering what happened the day before.
I traveled to Canmore, Alberta for X-mas with my family, which was gorgeous (as usual) and grounding. There is something about being in those vast Canadian Rockies that makes me feel so minuscule, humbled, and present. Although it can be a bit depressing--feeling small and unimportant almost opens me up, empties me, helps me to feel alive, real, and to live where I am in this moment right now. To understand that the mountains move, too, creates a sense of continuity, of connectedness and flow. Maybe I have no significant role in this world, but neither does a single fleck of dust, a skipping stone, a river boulder, a mountain. As a whole we create this space and time which we call here and now, we are all a part of the turning and jostling and whirling of this silly sphere. Somehow, although it will all be gone someday, I can feel like I am contributing something, like I am a part of something more tremendous, like what I ever hold in my hands at any single moment was once a part of another being--be it star, spider, seahorse, sisters of my greatest grand-parents. Maybe it sounds cliché and nonsensical, but the mountains are the explanation to my existence, what make me feel alive and grounded, the jelly to my peanut-butter.
Well that's enough mumbo-jumbo for now. After my life-changing (heh) trip to Canada, I returned home to Bend, OR for a few days before taking off for four grueling days of training on the World Champs hill in Beaver Creek. Our time there was incredibly productive--challenging and merry, snowy and American. It was great to have a short camp in the States before returning here to Europe for another 3 weeks of traveling and racing. So refreshing, like a Mimosa by a bonfire, or a PBR on a cold, snowy evening. But nothing lasts forever (the Tetons grow, on average, 1 cm per year! but most mountains are shrinking, due to erosion. the Tetons are young ;) and active) and now I'm back here in Austria.
I am sitting in my adorable little cabin, talking with Jackie about mountain growth and listening to the gentle rain pitter-patter on my tin roof. Although this sound is often comforting and allows me to breathe deeply, it is a bit worrisome considering the fact that we are supposed to race Downhill tomorrow. There is already not much snow out on the hill here in Bad Kleinkircheim, and this water certainly is not helping. But all I can do is hope for the best, let the sounds lull me to sleep, and hope the jet-lag doesn't interfere.
We'll see what I open my window to in the morning.
vive la france
Actually, that's Lake Louise (above). heh. But I am currently in France! I got to Val d'Isere late on Tuesday night, and have been watching the snow fall lightly since then. Although there is an apparent lack of snow on the mountain, it is beautiful in town and seems to be wintry/Christmasy enough here. But for now I'll touch a bit on Lake Louise and then return to my present place of existence.
riding the chair with these babes on our second day of training in Lake Louise (Stacey Cook, Alice McKennis, myself, and Katie Ryan)
Lake Louise was a crazy whirlwind, a blast, a pleasant surprise, a peachy lesson. I came into the first race with not much of an idea of how fast I was going to be this year--although I had won a Super-G FIS race just prior to the season opener in Lake Louise, I was unsure of where I was going to stack up against the World Cup field. It is always hard for me to know, because I am typically quite fast in training all summer, even when skiing with other World Cup teams. I can be one of the fastest girls on the course for the expanse of our summer training, but when it comes to racing I don't always ski up to my abilities. So after the first race run in Lake Louise (I just barely missed the podium, and ended up 4th!), I knew I had the capacity to compete with the fastest girls in the world. That was the boost of confidence that I needed, and I carried it over into the second day of DH, when I placed 6th. While skiing down the course on the second Downhill day, I had a bad feeling on my skis--I knew I was in the back seat, and although I was carrying my speed well, I had the sensation of simply surviving the whole way down. I know that if I can ski aggressively and in a good position, I can be really fast and competitive in World Cup speed races this year. So I am taking that into this weekend, and the rest of the season.....
getting silly with the frisbee
a new way of inspecting....
After racing in Lake Louise we immediately set off for Beaver Creek. We spent 3 days on the Birds of Prey training Super-G and Downhill with the men. It was intense. It was icy. It was fast. It was steep. It was frightening. But it actually turned out to be quite enjoyable. We took it easy and started a bit lower than the men (thank goodness). Although we won't be racing on that hill for the World Championship races in February, it was wonderful to ski on the Colorado snow, get used to the steep terrain, and feel what the boys feel when they run the Birds of Prey course!
training on the Birds of Prey--yes, I wore my pants for the first two runs! thanks to Jonathan Selkowitz for the photo!
After getting a little wind in my face, I got to return home to Oregon for a few days of rest before flying over here to France. It was lovely to be home, albeit for a short 3 days. I hope when I return next there is a bit more snow on the mountain...
But, for now, I am here. Val d'Isere, France is one of my favorite places to race. The course is fun, the town is gorgeous, the crêpes delicious, and the free skiing has been some of the best I've ever had. Unfortunately our first training run was canceled today, so we're all holed up inside our hotel, waiting for the fog to clear and crossing our fingers that they'll pull this thing off. Apparently the lack of snow here is consistent throughout the whole of this continent. There is a very shallow layer of hollow, bally snow between the grass and the few inches of new snow that has fallen over the last 24 hours. Supposedly there are rocks on our course. It doesn't sound too positive, but I'm remaining optimistic and hopeful, as I am craving to get back in the start gate. So send your positive vibes, do a snow dance, and cross your fingers, eyes, toes, arms, and legs for us!
Until next time.... be well, enjoy the Holidays, and celebrate a new year coming.
But, for now, I am here. Val d'Isere, France is one of my favorite places to race. The course is fun, the town is gorgeous, the crêpes delicious, and the free skiing has been some of the best I've ever had. Unfortunately our first training run was canceled today, so we're all holed up inside our hotel, waiting for the fog to clear and crossing our fingers that they'll pull this thing off. Apparently the lack of snow here is consistent throughout the whole of this continent. There is a very shallow layer of hollow, bally snow between the grass and the few inches of new snow that has fallen over the last 24 hours. Supposedly there are rocks on our course. It doesn't sound too positive, but I'm remaining optimistic and hopeful, as I am craving to get back in the start gate. So send your positive vibes, do a snow dance, and cross your fingers, eyes, toes, arms, and legs for us!
Until next time.... be well, enjoy the Holidays, and celebrate a new year coming.
perspectives
I am here in Copper, Colorado, still training and prepping for Lake Louise. The weather has been incredibly wintery over the last 10 days since I've returned from California....and it's so blissful. I love the peaceful feeling of the snow falling gently (or whipping harshly) against the rooftops and brushing my nose. There is plenty of snow here now; it is a different world compared to that which we arrived in 3 weeks ago--brown fields and snowless mountains. There was no snow to be seen at the base of Copper, and now there are excessive amounts. Although the snow is not particularly hard or superb for training, I must admit I enjoy the snowy environment much more than the bleak, brown one we were in a few weeks ago (despite the high-quality training).
On Wednesday after training I head back to Oregon for a few days before taking off to Lake Louise. The race season is approaching quickly, and I am getting anxious, nervous, excited, jittery. I'm afraid and feverish to get in the gate and see what I can accomplish this season. I have been working so hard all summer on preparing my body and mind for the work/play I will face this winter. Many long hours have I spent in the gym, lifting colorful weights, putting myself in silly positions, building my muscles to a bulky, ridiculous size. Hopefully it will pay off--at least I know I have no regrets.
When I was in Park City this summer I snapped some photographs with my film camera in the Center of Excellence. I have always been interested in negotiating an alternative perspective from which to view the gym life. It is insane to think of how much time I spend in the gym, and I wanted to gain some respect for the equipment I use everyday, and show myself (and you) how to see things differently. So I will post some of these film takes under my 'photographs' section (in the 'yumminess' tab). I have been taking more film photos throughout the summer and fall that I will post as well. You can also find some of these on my Instagram ( lalalaurenne ) and under the hashtags #coefilmtakes #negotiatingexcellence and #laurennesfilmeye please ENJOY. (samples above and below)
On Wednesday after training I head back to Oregon for a few days before taking off to Lake Louise. The race season is approaching quickly, and I am getting anxious, nervous, excited, jittery. I'm afraid and feverish to get in the gate and see what I can accomplish this season. I have been working so hard all summer on preparing my body and mind for the work/play I will face this winter. Many long hours have I spent in the gym, lifting colorful weights, putting myself in silly positions, building my muscles to a bulky, ridiculous size. Hopefully it will pay off--at least I know I have no regrets.
When I was in Park City this summer I snapped some photographs with my film camera in the Center of Excellence. I have always been interested in negotiating an alternative perspective from which to view the gym life. It is insane to think of how much time I spend in the gym, and I wanted to gain some respect for the equipment I use everyday, and show myself (and you) how to see things differently. So I will post some of these film takes under my 'photographs' section (in the 'yumminess' tab). I have been taking more film photos throughout the summer and fall that I will post as well. You can also find some of these on my Instagram ( lalalaurenne ) and under the hashtags #coefilmtakes #negotiatingexcellence and #laurennesfilmeye please ENJOY. (samples above and below)
arrival / departure / switzerland.
photo cred: Mike Arzt // The Public Works
Why does time seem to progress so impossibly rapidly when you use it up like it's fictitious? Like you know somebody just needed to put a number to a theory and you have to live by it because it's representational for every other human. Sometimes I wonder if my dog keeps track of the days, of the years, of minutes and seconds. Is she thinking, "oh shit, the sun is going down, which means I won't be going out to play any more today... and also I forgot to fluff my bed this morning... and do those other chores... and now I'm a day older and... oh I'm going to have to pay for this." Meanwhile I'm realizing I haven't blogged in a month, I forgot to call my Grandma in October, forgot to get my sprinklers blown out, to see my financial advisor, to get that 6th skein of yarn my knitting pattern called for and now. now I'm screwed. I'm going to have to use a different color than I anticipated and that is just plain catastrophic. I may not make it home until March, I only have enough (of my favorite Oregon) tea for 45 days, I have bought/made zero Christmas presents, I don't even have plans for them, and I forgot my passport in my bedroom.
But then I go back and think about my dog. About how she doesn't care if she'll have a ball thrown for her again today, or if her bed is perfectly made--she only knows she wants to cuddle right here right now no matter what or with whom, and it doesn't care who walks through the door she is ECSTATIC to see them. Which is somehow refreshing. Because then I realize that my sweater will just be more colorful than I planned, my tea and Christmas presents more exotic, and my blog posts more in depth.
Perhaps that's not what you fancy from a blogger--once-a-month-overwhelmingly-loaded-with-photos posts. But that's me, because I'm a procrastinator (in this way probably more than any other), and I'd rather be where I am than talk about where I was. One of the only reasons I convince myself to maintain my website is because it is an excuse go through old photos. I can step back into that spot I was standing last month, last year, when I was 18, and see what I saw through the lens. Smells, tastes, feelings, thoughts, hunger that I was experiencing at the time flood back and rip through my bloodstream, twist my nerves and tickle my longing and that is why I blog. That is why I take photos. That is why I write. Well, other than the fact that I feel writing is the only way to accurately express myself. And since I've had to talk myself into being in front of this computer, to compile photos and stream together some arbitrary words, and since you've already read up to this point....you might as well check out my blog (<--- click there) to see some photos, read about what I'm up to, where I've been, and what I'm thinking about what I thought.
For now, I'm in Copper, CO, doing many-a-snow-dance and training on two silly strips of man-made snow. They are quite nice strips, I must say. Narrow and compacted, wintery and white, with not too many rocks to speak of. Today was my 3rd day on snow, and we have been training GS every morning. There is not much speed training to speak of here in Colorado right now, but it is starting to cool down and there is apparently a mass amount of snow in the forecast next week... HALLELUJAH. I hope and pray and sing to the forecast's truth.
But for now I'll just have to remember what the falling snow looks and feels like, and take advantage of some gate-hunting on the man-made strips we have available.
But then I go back and think about my dog. About how she doesn't care if she'll have a ball thrown for her again today, or if her bed is perfectly made--she only knows she wants to cuddle right here right now no matter what or with whom, and it doesn't care who walks through the door she is ECSTATIC to see them. Which is somehow refreshing. Because then I realize that my sweater will just be more colorful than I planned, my tea and Christmas presents more exotic, and my blog posts more in depth.
Perhaps that's not what you fancy from a blogger--once-a-month-overwhelmingly-loaded-with-photos posts. But that's me, because I'm a procrastinator (in this way probably more than any other), and I'd rather be where I am than talk about where I was. One of the only reasons I convince myself to maintain my website is because it is an excuse go through old photos. I can step back into that spot I was standing last month, last year, when I was 18, and see what I saw through the lens. Smells, tastes, feelings, thoughts, hunger that I was experiencing at the time flood back and rip through my bloodstream, twist my nerves and tickle my longing and that is why I blog. That is why I take photos. That is why I write. Well, other than the fact that I feel writing is the only way to accurately express myself. And since I've had to talk myself into being in front of this computer, to compile photos and stream together some arbitrary words, and since you've already read up to this point....you might as well check out my blog (<--- click there) to see some photos, read about what I'm up to, where I've been, and what I'm thinking about what I thought.
For now, I'm in Copper, CO, doing many-a-snow-dance and training on two silly strips of man-made snow. They are quite nice strips, I must say. Narrow and compacted, wintery and white, with not too many rocks to speak of. Today was my 3rd day on snow, and we have been training GS every morning. There is not much speed training to speak of here in Colorado right now, but it is starting to cool down and there is apparently a mass amount of snow in the forecast next week... HALLELUJAH. I hope and pray and sing to the forecast's truth.
But for now I'll just have to remember what the falling snow looks and feels like, and take advantage of some gate-hunting on the man-made strips we have available.
(a film shot in Park City-- see see see my BLOG for more photographs and writing)
LIFE. finally.
Actually, I'm in Zermatt, Switzerland now. But it has been forever since I have updated, blogged, etc. so here I am, taking a day off and catching up with my technological/social-media life. Since arriving home from New Zealand, I have been insanely busy--building a paver patio in my back-yard with Leanne and Dustin, prepping for Dana's--my high-school bestie's--wedding (I was a bridesmaid and played violin/sang in the ceremony), taking a getaway on the Oregon coast, and packing for my trip here in Switzerland.
So I'm decisively revisiting my blogging life. First and foremost I want to post some pictures and thoughts on New Zealand. Check those out here, on my blog (or see tabs above, under Home).
Since New Zealand I have been up to a bit of craziness. I spent ten days building a paver patio in my back-yard. The results of which look like this!
So I'm decisively revisiting my blogging life. First and foremost I want to post some pictures and thoughts on New Zealand. Check those out here, on my blog (or see tabs above, under Home).
Since New Zealand I have been up to a bit of craziness. I spent ten days building a paver patio in my back-yard. The results of which look like this!
I also got myself a new tattoo ;0
the three sisters in Alberta on the left and the Oregon three sisters on the right
Although I had little time to myself at home, I managed to escape from the madness for a few days and enjoy some surf in Newport with a few friends.
Although I had little time to myself at home, I managed to escape from the madness for a few days and enjoy some surf in Newport with a few friends.
I also got to climb a bit out at Smith, which was nice. And go cliff jumping at Steelhead falls!
But now I'm back in the zone. Practicing my turns, my focus, and soaking up the Swiss-alp scenery, fondue, and glacial snow. It feels good to be back on my skis--every day I become a better skier; learning more about my equipment, my balance (in all senses of the term), my zeal and myself. More on that later. For now, check out New Zealand from my eyes and mind--pictures, words, love.
The Matterhorn!
utah // update
I made it through. Attending school is something I look forward to every single year--but by the end of the spring term I become so sleep deprived and my brain so full of information that I yearn to just take a nap, to go to the gym and not think about my art projects and due dates while lifting weights, and to actually have a social life. Now the spring term is over and I'm in Park City, Utah. I am inspired by many of the things I learned this term, and I'm thrilled to have some time to do projects of my own. And to play music. Mostly I'm so happy to be able to just sit down and play some music.
As it is, I am going to start posting some videos of music again. I have just uploaded the first one to Vimeo, and will begin working on more as soon as I get used to the guitar in my hands again. Click here to check it out...more to come!
A brief update on school: I took a ceramics class, 3d studio art, social psychology, and an art studies class. It was a great combination of courses, but having 2 studio classes was tough. My art studies class was interesting in the sense that I learned how to really look at art under a different light. We had a weekly presentation given by many of the art professors at U of O on their personal work, so it was really wonderful to see all of the amazing art creation that is happening around UO.
My ceramics class was probably my favorite. I went above and beyond all of the requirements because I was just so intrigued by the process of working with clay. Beginning with a hunk of wet clay and ending with a beautifully fired piece is such an unbelievable process. It is nearly impossible for the final product to come out as you first envisioned it, but that was something about ceramics that I loved so much. We did a pinched project, we did slab-building, coil-building, sculpture forms, functional forms, wheel-throwing, glazing, raku-firing, SO MANY wonderful processes that I can't wait to learn more about in the future... I took a bunch of pictures of my work, so perhaps I'll post a few of those soon.
My Social Psychology class was so incredibly relevant to my everyday life--I kept referring back to facts that I learned in psychology when observing everyday events. I'm sure it was annoying for the people around me, but it really made me understand the world as a different place.
And my 3d studio art class was really fascinating as well. My favorite part was working in the wood shop--for my final project I built these triangular prisms out of wood and covered them with fabric. Here are a few photos of them in Hendrix Park:
As it is, I am going to start posting some videos of music again. I have just uploaded the first one to Vimeo, and will begin working on more as soon as I get used to the guitar in my hands again. Click here to check it out...more to come!
A brief update on school: I took a ceramics class, 3d studio art, social psychology, and an art studies class. It was a great combination of courses, but having 2 studio classes was tough. My art studies class was interesting in the sense that I learned how to really look at art under a different light. We had a weekly presentation given by many of the art professors at U of O on their personal work, so it was really wonderful to see all of the amazing art creation that is happening around UO.
My ceramics class was probably my favorite. I went above and beyond all of the requirements because I was just so intrigued by the process of working with clay. Beginning with a hunk of wet clay and ending with a beautifully fired piece is such an unbelievable process. It is nearly impossible for the final product to come out as you first envisioned it, but that was something about ceramics that I loved so much. We did a pinched project, we did slab-building, coil-building, sculpture forms, functional forms, wheel-throwing, glazing, raku-firing, SO MANY wonderful processes that I can't wait to learn more about in the future... I took a bunch of pictures of my work, so perhaps I'll post a few of those soon.
My Social Psychology class was so incredibly relevant to my everyday life--I kept referring back to facts that I learned in psychology when observing everyday events. I'm sure it was annoying for the people around me, but it really made me understand the world as a different place.
And my 3d studio art class was really fascinating as well. My favorite part was working in the wood shop--for my final project I built these triangular prisms out of wood and covered them with fabric. Here are a few photos of them in Hendrix Park:
Getting all of the miter angles to work together was insanely difficult...I went through a lot of time-consuming trial and error. Yikes. But they turned out pretty and silly...Allana (my older sister) already started using them as awkward dice.
Well, that's it for now. Instead of posting more words, I am going to work on my projects and post videos/pictures every so-often. So stay tuned for more.... and happy summer!!!
Well, that's it for now. Instead of posting more words, I am going to work on my projects and post videos/pictures every so-often. So stay tuned for more.... and happy summer!!!
Spring madness
It has been an insane ski season. I have been so to many places, mentally and physically, through so many lows, a few highs, and lots of in-betweens. I'm glad it's over, and I'm really looking forward to next season--I'm already hungry and ready for the prep period. I have some things to work on in my skiing, and I anticipate stepping up to that challenge with zest and an open mind. But for now, it's spring time...
Which means it's me time. I am attending the spring semester at the University of Oregon in Eugene--I just started on Monday and I've already missed half of my classes! But with good reason...I am in Washington, D.C., immersing myself back in the Olympic scene and (ahem) meeting the President. Yup. I met Barrack and Michelle Obama today. That was a pretty neat experience. I got to tour around the White House and explore the government scene--something seemingly very distant from what I do. But it was interesting to make some connections that I hadn't previously realized existed between my self, my sport, and my governing body. NEAT!
As for school...I am so happy to be back in that environment! It's so wonderful to just turn a page and be able to lead a completely different life from what I lead the rest of the year. At the same time, it's quite a shock to my brain that I haven't received in a while, and can be a bit overwhelming. It is certainly teaching me time-management and how to open up and think critically again. I love it. BAH!
More on all of this later....stay tuned for a blog post soon! For now, check out my Shred with Laurenne camp by clicking on the purple link! I am hosting another camp at Bachelor next weekend, and there are only 12 spots available, so hurry and sign up! I will set a GS course in the morning for training, but there will definitely be some free-skiing as well. Basically, what we do, where we ski, how we ski (one-ski, anyone?) is totally up to you, the campers.
See you next weekend!
As for school...I am so happy to be back in that environment! It's so wonderful to just turn a page and be able to lead a completely different life from what I lead the rest of the year. At the same time, it's quite a shock to my brain that I haven't received in a while, and can be a bit overwhelming. It is certainly teaching me time-management and how to open up and think critically again. I love it. BAH!
More on all of this later....stay tuned for a blog post soon! For now, check out my Shred with Laurenne camp by clicking on the purple link! I am hosting another camp at Bachelor next weekend, and there are only 12 spots available, so hurry and sign up! I will set a GS course in the morning for training, but there will definitely be some free-skiing as well. Basically, what we do, where we ski, how we ski (one-ski, anyone?) is totally up to you, the campers.
See you next weekend!
Crans Montana
So I guess it's all over now. The Olympics flew by--I soaked it up and drank it in and then... it was gone. Just like that. I guess I was thirsty. But I definitely got some vitamin D! Read more here.
But now I'm here in Crans Montana, Switzerland! We came here to race in a World Cup 4 years ago...but now we're on a totally new hill. Which is awesome. I love learning new courses, and it's all the better when every racer has to learn a course for the first time. It makes the first training run exciting! And that's tomorrow.... so here we go....
I got to go back to the states for a few days after Sochi. It was impossibly beautiful. I elected not to return to Bend, as I wanted to avoid the real world: obligations, appointments, bills, etc. So I stayed in San Francisco/Bodega Bay/Oakland/Santa Rosa. I got to surf, learn to kite (didn't quite get to the board part), go to a Phantogram concert, and explore. It was nice to feel a touch of warmth and the approach of spring...I'm looking forward to the grasses greening, birds chirping, and going to learn some things at University. I plan on taking classes at UO this spring, and couldn't be more thrilled. Learning and growing and not sleeping and writing writing so much writing. I can't wait.
But for now, I am here in Switzerland. It is a gorgeous place, surrounded by vast mountain ranges. Unfortunately there isn't much snow here this year...but it looks like the race hill is prepared well so I look forward to getting on that thing tomorrow! This life, this crazy crazy life, I am in it again. So now I submerge. love and peace.
But now I'm here in Crans Montana, Switzerland! We came here to race in a World Cup 4 years ago...but now we're on a totally new hill. Which is awesome. I love learning new courses, and it's all the better when every racer has to learn a course for the first time. It makes the first training run exciting! And that's tomorrow.... so here we go....
I got to go back to the states for a few days after Sochi. It was impossibly beautiful. I elected not to return to Bend, as I wanted to avoid the real world: obligations, appointments, bills, etc. So I stayed in San Francisco/Bodega Bay/Oakland/Santa Rosa. I got to surf, learn to kite (didn't quite get to the board part), go to a Phantogram concert, and explore. It was nice to feel a touch of warmth and the approach of spring...I'm looking forward to the grasses greening, birds chirping, and going to learn some things at University. I plan on taking classes at UO this spring, and couldn't be more thrilled. Learning and growing and not sleeping and writing writing so much writing. I can't wait.
But for now, I am here in Switzerland. It is a gorgeous place, surrounded by vast mountain ranges. Unfortunately there isn't much snow here this year...but it looks like the race hill is prepared well so I look forward to getting on that thing tomorrow! This life, this crazy crazy life, I am in it again. So now I submerge. love and peace.
Sochi 2014
Check out my blog to keep up with me while I'm in Sochi. I found an app so I can update my blog on my handy-dandy cellular telephone! I'll try to update with pictures and words daily. Send your fast and positive vibes my way while you're at it :)
Sochi bound...
So it's official. I am heading to the Olympics. I'm now on the road to Sochi, getting prepared both physically and mentally for a crazy ride of my life. I'm currently in Reinswald, Italy at a short training camp before we head to Munich tomorrow for processing. We're staying at this beautiful hotel called Bad Schörgau--it is the perfect place to relax and get ready for the whirlwind that will occur over the next few weeks. There is a beautiful spa: saunas, pools, hot-tubs, relaxation rooms. The food is absolutely astounding--my taste-buds and mind have literally been blown away every single day. The training was great for two days, but then it started to snow. Hard. And it hasn't yet ceased... so we've been doing a little adventuring and a whole lot of nothing. Yesterday we drove down to Bolzano to get a workout in, and on our way back up we stopped at Runkelstein Castle. Neat!
I will be updating my webpage over the next few weeks of Olympic adventures. Keep checking in for photos and more! I will also be updating my Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Hurrah! USA!!!
I will be updating my webpage over the next few weeks of Olympic adventures. Keep checking in for photos and more! I will also be updating my Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Hurrah! USA!!!
Cortina, Italy
Here I am again. Among the beautiful Dolomites, draped in snowy white, jutting rocky peaks. It's different every time, whether because of the weather, the skies, the hotel, or my mind. Currently, I'm noticing those mental differences. I'm not sure if they're due to my inner state, my phase, my skiing, my perceptions and understandings or perhaps all of the above. I've taken advantage of skiing so fast over the last few years, building up my technique and confidence, understanding what it is to ski fast, understanding what it is to ski slow.
But never have I had a season like this one.... My best World Cup result this year is 20th. I haven't scored a single point in Super-G. I come through the finish and look up often dumbfounded. I'm working as hard as ever, stronger than ever, putting everything I have into this, and it's not quite coming back. I haven't been sleeping well, I'm feeling it in my blood and in my bones, and I'm running out of patience. It's a thin line that I'm walking, with the Olympic team selections approaching on Sunday--I basically have the next three days to perform.
It's amazing how positive and playful I have remained through all of this, how trusting and open I have managed to be. I am proud of myself, and humiliated at the same time. I'm figuring things out, and then they're falling apart at my feet. If anything, I'm learning to be modest and growing to be grounded. I've always known I was impatient, but now I'm testing myself and, if nothing grand or monumental, I'm getting to know myself.
Aside from skiing, I've been playing/writing music: on my guitar and on my Push (check it out). I've been cross-country skiing with my teammates and reading a lot, journaling, and watching Downton Abbey, my current fave. I'm staying happy, as I know that doesn't come from results, but I'm certainly fighting for it and learning how to dig deep to cultivate it. Though it's not the best time of my life, I'm growing because of it.
Check out my blog for some recent photos.
But never have I had a season like this one.... My best World Cup result this year is 20th. I haven't scored a single point in Super-G. I come through the finish and look up often dumbfounded. I'm working as hard as ever, stronger than ever, putting everything I have into this, and it's not quite coming back. I haven't been sleeping well, I'm feeling it in my blood and in my bones, and I'm running out of patience. It's a thin line that I'm walking, with the Olympic team selections approaching on Sunday--I basically have the next three days to perform.
It's amazing how positive and playful I have remained through all of this, how trusting and open I have managed to be. I am proud of myself, and humiliated at the same time. I'm figuring things out, and then they're falling apart at my feet. If anything, I'm learning to be modest and growing to be grounded. I've always known I was impatient, but now I'm testing myself and, if nothing grand or monumental, I'm getting to know myself.
Aside from skiing, I've been playing/writing music: on my guitar and on my Push (check it out). I've been cross-country skiing with my teammates and reading a lot, journaling, and watching Downton Abbey, my current fave. I'm staying happy, as I know that doesn't come from results, but I'm certainly fighting for it and learning how to dig deep to cultivate it. Though it's not the best time of my life, I'm growing because of it.
Check out my blog for some recent photos.
skis off, homeward bound
It has been a lengthy, grueling, and somewhat painful opening of my ski season. I have been struggling to figure out a comfortable setup on snow that I have not yet skied on with my new equipment (until the World Cup races in Beaver Creek). But it is slowly coming together and despite the struggles I have thus far endured this winter I somehow feel happy and hopeful.
I'm heading to Canada now for X-mas with the family. It will be a very short break, and then it's back to Europe for some training before Zauchensee.
I haven't been taking many photographs this year (my camera phone does the trick!), but what I have shot I will post soon. For now I have basically written a journal entry...check out my blog on star dust, existence, and hope. Happy Christmas and very cheery Holidays.
love is in the air.
I'm heading to Canada now for X-mas with the family. It will be a very short break, and then it's back to Europe for some training before Zauchensee.
I haven't been taking many photographs this year (my camera phone does the trick!), but what I have shot I will post soon. For now I have basically written a journal entry...check out my blog on star dust, existence, and hope. Happy Christmas and very cheery Holidays.
love is in the air.
Beaver Creek
Here I am. First race of the year... I am excited, nervous, ready. Anxious for the race season to begin. I have recently realized that I'm getting sick of training. Run after run. Time after time. Tweaking equipment. Tweaking technique. Tweaking mindsets. I'm ready to forget everything and just ski.
Training takes a lot of thinking, preparing, changing. Racing just takes knowing. Belief that you have prepared. Confidence in your skills. Calm in your intellect. Although it's incredibly difficult to realize and maintain the right mindset, the fast mindset, when you find it it feels right. It feels easy and fluid. It's just a matter of getting there....and I am looking forward to stepping up to that challenge this season and discovering my potential. In all aspects. Whatever happens, if I'm slow or fast, smooth or misshapen, I want to enjoy myself. I just want to go out there and ski. Forget everything I've learned. Do it for me, for the fresh air, for the mountains and the sky and the adventure. Just go out there and ski. So here I go....
Training takes a lot of thinking, preparing, changing. Racing just takes knowing. Belief that you have prepared. Confidence in your skills. Calm in your intellect. Although it's incredibly difficult to realize and maintain the right mindset, the fast mindset, when you find it it feels right. It feels easy and fluid. It's just a matter of getting there....and I am looking forward to stepping up to that challenge this season and discovering my potential. In all aspects. Whatever happens, if I'm slow or fast, smooth or misshapen, I want to enjoy myself. I just want to go out there and ski. Forget everything I've learned. Do it for me, for the fresh air, for the mountains and the sky and the adventure. Just go out there and ski. So here I go....
back on it
It's becoming chilly outside. Days are getting darker, wind is rustling my branches, and snow is around the bend....
I'm excited for ski season. And I'm also excited to delve back into my blogging life. I constantly feel the need to blog, but I feel similarly about blogging as I feel about GoPro'ing. Which is lame, unless it has to do with my skiing life. I can video all the flying, training, water skiing, mountain biking, and silliness that I want...but it's not nearly as exciting as my ski racing life. Luckily, my ski racing life is about to begin again. And, hopefully, my blogging will consequently frequent itself as well. For now (as I become anxious)...I am going to post some pictures. Picture blog!
I'm excited for ski season. And I'm also excited to delve back into my blogging life. I constantly feel the need to blog, but I feel similarly about blogging as I feel about GoPro'ing. Which is lame, unless it has to do with my skiing life. I can video all the flying, training, water skiing, mountain biking, and silliness that I want...but it's not nearly as exciting as my ski racing life. Luckily, my ski racing life is about to begin again. And, hopefully, my blogging will consequently frequent itself as well. For now (as I become anxious)...I am going to post some pictures. Picture blog!
Chile #2
Here I am. Back in Portillo. Back in these beautiful, crazy mountains. Amidst the cliffs, snow, water, and sky. In this mad, still time-warp. It is elementally identical every single year: I'm staying in the exact same room, regardless if it's a different number. I'm skiing the exact same slopes: sometimes a little less snow, sometimes a little more snow, sometimes icy, sometimes slushy. I'm eating the exact same foods, walking the same paths, breathing the same air, viewing the same sights. It's like I'm reliving my past--it's dreamy. Yellow, blue, white, black. Foggy, sleepy, congruent. But every year I seem to get excited, regardless of the similarities and repetitions. The training is challenging, sometimes frightening. The people are kind. I know I'll find old friendships and I'm likely to create new ones every year I'm here. I learn something new every single day: every turn I make, every chair I ride, every video session. It's amazing that something so familiar can be so refreshing and awakening. Sometimes rude, but often crisp. I love it here and hate it here at the same time. I'm always glad to arrive, and always grateful to return home. It's a strange addiction, Portillo.... it's an old friend: reliable and attentive. It's the motionless, calm stop I can barely breathe with every year. And I'm so happy to be here, so happy to immerse myself in this insanity, and learn from my affinity with it. It's one of those things that just is. Never changing yet always absorbing. Here I am. Back in Portillo.
Chile #1
El Colorado has been incredible. Cold. Snowy. Love. I just realized (again) that I am obsessed with skiing. Check out my blog post, from down south...
And back
But I always return home. It's a bit of a funny concept to me--home. I spend more time away from it than I do in it, so it seems that my home is truly the road, the skies, the mountains, the wild. But to have a place to return to is something I find more and more warming every time I do so. And now I'm home. In my bed. In my home head. In my homestead. And yes to that.
Way out
Another plane. Another day. Another dollar. Okay I don't know about the dollar part but it sounds neat. I guess I am not really spending dollars on this trip, but I just bought a coffee so I suppose that counts.
I am, once again, sitting in the Redmond (Bend) airport, waiting for my plane to LA, where I will board another plane to San Diego, where I will arrive at my temporary destination (1 week) and get my ass kicked. I can't wait.
I used to dread these conditioning camps. Don't get me wrong, I am not necessarily looking forward to doing sprints on the beach, carrying people through water, paddling around ocean buoys and probably vomiting a little--but I am kind of excited to feel that exhaustion at the end of a hard day, sleep like a baby (although I don't really understand that phrase), and push my limits. Olympic Training Center, here I come....
Plus, after my conditioning camp this week I get to head to Kona with my family for a week. YES. Can't wait.
I haven't been blogging lately, but I have been posting some photos (of the day!) on my "Photographs" page under the Yumminess tab (or click here). There has not been a new picture every single day, but when I remember I try to post a neat picture to share some love.
It's not officially summer! Although the last 3 weeks have felt quite like summer, it's nice to enjoy the long days and breezy summer nights. I am already looking forward to being back in Bend with my friends: playing music, climbing, living a home life. It's been lovely. But for now--time for some struggle and hopefully some good surf :)
I am, once again, sitting in the Redmond (Bend) airport, waiting for my plane to LA, where I will board another plane to San Diego, where I will arrive at my temporary destination (1 week) and get my ass kicked. I can't wait.
I used to dread these conditioning camps. Don't get me wrong, I am not necessarily looking forward to doing sprints on the beach, carrying people through water, paddling around ocean buoys and probably vomiting a little--but I am kind of excited to feel that exhaustion at the end of a hard day, sleep like a baby (although I don't really understand that phrase), and push my limits. Olympic Training Center, here I come....
Plus, after my conditioning camp this week I get to head to Kona with my family for a week. YES. Can't wait.
I haven't been blogging lately, but I have been posting some photos (of the day!) on my "Photographs" page under the Yumminess tab (or click here). There has not been a new picture every single day, but when I remember I try to post a neat picture to share some love.
It's not officially summer! Although the last 3 weeks have felt quite like summer, it's nice to enjoy the long days and breezy summer nights. I am already looking forward to being back in Bend with my friends: playing music, climbing, living a home life. It's been lovely. But for now--time for some struggle and hopefully some good surf :)
PHOto of the day
Because I have been so awesomely slacking (mostly because I haven't had time) lately, I am going to revert to the photo of the day feature to keep you updated on my life. Please click on the Photographs link under the Yumminess tab to see each Photo of the day. For now, here is photo #1, 2013:
Tommy took this one. He is also in it (see top). We were in the middle of our coast trip down at Tillicum campground near Yachats, Oregon. Thanks Tommy :)
SPRing madness
Whoa. Over the last (almost!) 2 months I have been the most awful, no-good, very-bad, terrible blogger. As in, I have not blogged once. And as you can see (below), my last update was when I was in Ofterschwang, Germany, which was even before World Cup Finals. Yikes. Well, as it turned out, I ended up pile driving into yet another fence in Lenzerheide, Switzerland during the first DH training run of the Finals. So that really shook me up, pissed me off, left me bitter and wanting to give up. I almost threw in the towel on that day--whew. That was a horrific day. I took a step back to rethink my life, my plan, my path. ALAS! I got a few good nights of sleep, free skied a bit (while all the speed races at Finals were cancelled), and got back on that horse that I have fallen off of OH so many times. Hopefully I don't have to do that too many more times or I'm definitely done for. Anyhow... Check out my blog for some more words and pics!
Ofterschwang, Germany
After my weekend in Garmisch I was pretty pumped up and happy with my skiing. I had a few days of good GS training leading into the GS race here in Ofterschwang yesterday, but still couldn't manage to send it enough. Being a 4 event skier is insane and almost stupid, as I have found while trying to be great at 3 events (just silly. but great fun!). I have always loved GS, and I used to rip it. I still do from time to time, but it's really tough to be confident in your skiing when you don't train very often and you still have 12 focuses as you ski down the course. And that was definitely part of my problem yesterday. I have been working on so many technique issues that I forget to go straight and deep--I can't help but hook the bottom of the turn and over-ski the shit out of the course. It just feels too good! So I've got to work on that....
I think I should work on my points, too, because starting 6th from last isn't exactly easy either. Well, DH and SG, I'm moving on...
Not really. Speed is so fun, I don't think I could ever give it up. Besides, I don't believe that I have to. Skiing more GS is only going to help my speed, and I want to focus on what I'm best at anyway. Speaking of which, I am heading to Lenzerheide, Switzerland today for the World Cup Finals in Downhill and Super G. Last time I went to Lenzerheide I was there at finals for only Super G, and it ended up pouring rain the day of the SG race, so I didn't even get to go out on the hill. So, it's going to be another new course for me! Yipee!
I am a bit sad to leave our hotel here in Ofterschwang, as it is like a miniature utopia city. The food has been incredible, the spa and pool rejuvenating, and hanging out with the tech girls has been real fun and spicy (especially rooming with Resi). But, as it always does, life moves on (fast!) and I'm headed to the last world cup race of the year! Then it's off to a few NorAm races and Nationals in Squaw (can't wait!) to wrap up the season. Come out to support and watch us rip in Cali if you can :)
I think I should work on my points, too, because starting 6th from last isn't exactly easy either. Well, DH and SG, I'm moving on...
Not really. Speed is so fun, I don't think I could ever give it up. Besides, I don't believe that I have to. Skiing more GS is only going to help my speed, and I want to focus on what I'm best at anyway. Speaking of which, I am heading to Lenzerheide, Switzerland today for the World Cup Finals in Downhill and Super G. Last time I went to Lenzerheide I was there at finals for only Super G, and it ended up pouring rain the day of the SG race, so I didn't even get to go out on the hill. So, it's going to be another new course for me! Yipee!
I am a bit sad to leave our hotel here in Ofterschwang, as it is like a miniature utopia city. The food has been incredible, the spa and pool rejuvenating, and hanging out with the tech girls has been real fun and spicy (especially rooming with Resi). But, as it always does, life moves on (fast!) and I'm headed to the last world cup race of the year! Then it's off to a few NorAm races and Nationals in Squaw (can't wait!) to wrap up the season. Come out to support and watch us rip in Cali if you can :)
Garmisch-partenkirchen, germany
What a crazy crazy weekend! After two average training runs on Wednesday and Thursday, I was really happy to be able to throw a good run down in Super G on Friday. I got 9th that day...little did I know what was to come on Saturday...
And then I skied like I have been aspiring to all year. My downhill run was far from perfect, but I stuck my nose in it, tucked like a little bullet, and pulled off some skiing that I know I should have been enjoying all year. It's been a tough year, like I wrote about in one of my previous posts (see Schladming, Austria below), and my skiing has been quite inconsistent. But I found a groove yesterday that I forgot I had. I discovered a crazy fiery fiendish ski racer in myself. And I managed to pull off my first World Cup podium of my career! WAHOO YEHAW YEWWWW
Today was a little rough; I had a hard time sleeping last night because I was so excited (and I couldn't breathe through my nose cause of my silly sickness). I woke up feeling a little worn down from all the excitement, but confident in my skiing and ready to try and accomplish the same thing in Super G. I had a great run on the top half of the course, was carrying some heat and wonder when I decided to sit back, lean in, and make a silly mistake all on the most difficult turn on the course.... so that didn't work out too well! But I still ended up 22nd and am extremely pumped about my electric weekend.
And I feel so much better about my skiing. I now know that I have that racing ability inside of me, and I am going to take that forth, harness my inner she devil and keep on pushing myself over the next few weeks.
It's crazy to think that the ski season is almost over....I only have two more WC speed races left this year! Sad :(. But I am looking forward to this weekend; I am heading to Offterschwang, Germany to race the World Cup GS on Saturday. For now I am back in Sölden taking some time off before a few days of training for Saturday's race. Which is wonderful, because I'm exhausted after such an exhilarating weekend...
So it's off to bed. Bye for now :)
And then I skied like I have been aspiring to all year. My downhill run was far from perfect, but I stuck my nose in it, tucked like a little bullet, and pulled off some skiing that I know I should have been enjoying all year. It's been a tough year, like I wrote about in one of my previous posts (see Schladming, Austria below), and my skiing has been quite inconsistent. But I found a groove yesterday that I forgot I had. I discovered a crazy fiery fiendish ski racer in myself. And I managed to pull off my first World Cup podium of my career! WAHOO YEHAW YEWWWW
Today was a little rough; I had a hard time sleeping last night because I was so excited (and I couldn't breathe through my nose cause of my silly sickness). I woke up feeling a little worn down from all the excitement, but confident in my skiing and ready to try and accomplish the same thing in Super G. I had a great run on the top half of the course, was carrying some heat and wonder when I decided to sit back, lean in, and make a silly mistake all on the most difficult turn on the course.... so that didn't work out too well! But I still ended up 22nd and am extremely pumped about my electric weekend.
And I feel so much better about my skiing. I now know that I have that racing ability inside of me, and I am going to take that forth, harness my inner she devil and keep on pushing myself over the next few weeks.
It's crazy to think that the ski season is almost over....I only have two more WC speed races left this year! Sad :(. But I am looking forward to this weekend; I am heading to Offterschwang, Germany to race the World Cup GS on Saturday. For now I am back in Sölden taking some time off before a few days of training for Saturday's race. Which is wonderful, because I'm exhausted after such an exhilarating weekend...
So it's off to bed. Bye for now :)
Meribel, France
WHOA. That place was incredible. From the scenery to the vast amounts of skiing to the snow conditions, I couldn't imagine Meribel being more perfect. The DH course was relatively slow, but had nice hero snow and was still pretty fun. I had a tough time trying to figure out my equipment, but I definitely learned a lot from this past weekend and I can't wait to return to Meribel in two years for finals. The Super Combined was pretty good: I was 12th in the DH portion, and ended up 15th overall. I believe that's my best World Cup Super Combi finish yet? Either way, it was a fun day (other than getting hit in the face by a slalom gate! fat lip!).
I am now here in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. We had our first training run today: the snow was wonderful and the weather beautiful. Hopefully mother nature keeps this up over the rest of the season. I think she's paying us back for all of that awful weather we had at the beginning of the year! We'll see....
:)
I am now here in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. We had our first training run today: the snow was wonderful and the weather beautiful. Hopefully mother nature keeps this up over the rest of the season. I think she's paying us back for all of that awful weather we had at the beginning of the year! We'll see....
:)
schladming, Austria
World Championships. It's got a ring--a tinge of substance and ferocity. It's a substantial piece in my ski racing puzzle. It's where I am now.
Being part of such a fast team is compelling and demanding. Knowing I am a part of it, I sometimes have a hard time living up to it. This season has been the best of my ski racing career so far, and yet it sometimes seems insignificant compared to my teammates. It's been tough feeling like the slow one on my team, tough to not compare myself to others, tough to be happy with my results when I feel I should be up there with the others. What's really hard is not getting a spot in my best event in the biggest race of the year...not because I don't deserve it, but because others deserve it more.
But somehow I'm smiling. Because I know it's only one day, it's only one race out of many that I will be lucky enough to race in. I'm trying to be easy on myself, to breathe, to not be so narrow minded. After all, this is only ski racing....
And it's been fun! Racing in the Super G was a wonderful opportunity. I certainly didn't ski my best, but I did take a step back and I saw the bigger picture. I realized some things that I have lately forgotten, things that are of the utmost importance to not only my happiness but to my sanity. There is a lot going on in this world, and I'm like a little ant among mounds and endless mounds. I sometimes think I am bigger and stronger than the rest, but I forget that I'm just standing on ground. I'm just a two-legged creature, trying to touch the sky like everyone else--connected and breathing. So that's weird.
Aside from that crazy stuff, I am planning on sticking around for the team event here in Schladming! I'm excited to race in some parallel slalom to see what I can do. I am certainly not a slalom skier, but I'll be comforted by the panels and fired up by another person racing next to me... so we'll see! The Super Combined was actually pretty good. My downhill run was great, though it wasn't in the best of light. I tried sending it in the slalom as well--things got a little out of control, but I somehow made it to the finish line and got 11th :) I knew that if I didn't give it my all I would regret it in the finish, and I am trying to avoid regret like the plague. By now I have figured out that if I ski passively and carefully my heart only sinks at the bottom. I know what's inside of me (some sort of slalom devil--among other devils--is in there and I KNOW it), and I want that light to show more often, instead of the one that I'm comfortable with.
It's all coming together, and I'm anxiously awaiting the next speed race. For now, I'll work on my paneled slalom and my mental game (life). HIYA!
Being part of such a fast team is compelling and demanding. Knowing I am a part of it, I sometimes have a hard time living up to it. This season has been the best of my ski racing career so far, and yet it sometimes seems insignificant compared to my teammates. It's been tough feeling like the slow one on my team, tough to not compare myself to others, tough to be happy with my results when I feel I should be up there with the others. What's really hard is not getting a spot in my best event in the biggest race of the year...not because I don't deserve it, but because others deserve it more.
But somehow I'm smiling. Because I know it's only one day, it's only one race out of many that I will be lucky enough to race in. I'm trying to be easy on myself, to breathe, to not be so narrow minded. After all, this is only ski racing....
And it's been fun! Racing in the Super G was a wonderful opportunity. I certainly didn't ski my best, but I did take a step back and I saw the bigger picture. I realized some things that I have lately forgotten, things that are of the utmost importance to not only my happiness but to my sanity. There is a lot going on in this world, and I'm like a little ant among mounds and endless mounds. I sometimes think I am bigger and stronger than the rest, but I forget that I'm just standing on ground. I'm just a two-legged creature, trying to touch the sky like everyone else--connected and breathing. So that's weird.
Aside from that crazy stuff, I am planning on sticking around for the team event here in Schladming! I'm excited to race in some parallel slalom to see what I can do. I am certainly not a slalom skier, but I'll be comforted by the panels and fired up by another person racing next to me... so we'll see! The Super Combined was actually pretty good. My downhill run was great, though it wasn't in the best of light. I tried sending it in the slalom as well--things got a little out of control, but I somehow made it to the finish line and got 11th :) I knew that if I didn't give it my all I would regret it in the finish, and I am trying to avoid regret like the plague. By now I have figured out that if I ski passively and carefully my heart only sinks at the bottom. I know what's inside of me (some sort of slalom devil--among other devils--is in there and I KNOW it), and I want that light to show more often, instead of the one that I'm comfortable with.
It's all coming together, and I'm anxiously awaiting the next speed race. For now, I'll work on my paneled slalom and my mental game (life). HIYA!
Ultental, Italy
We just got to Schladming last night after a training camp in Ultental, Italy. I think it was our first training camp since the prep period that we successfully pulled off some good training... and it was so fun. It was awesome to get back on my speed skis in a setting other than a race course. I got a really good feeling and found my tempo. I am still trying to figure out some equipment issues, but I am definitely getting close to the right setup.
We skied two days of downhill and two days of super-g. It was all quite enjoyable... getting some wind in the face was really wonderful after my lovely vacation in the Canary Islands. Overall, the last 2 weeks really haven't been too bad....
The free-ski on the hill (for SG) was canceled tomorrow, so you can imagine how much snow is falling from the sky. It's quite the contradistinction to the last time we were here (RAIN RAIN RAIN)! There is certainly enough snow to race now...and it doesn't seem to want to stop coming down. It's nice to be back in winter. I am psyched to get out there and race the Super G on Tuesday...maybe there will even be some powder skiing sometime while I'm here. It seems that it is certainly going to be an option!
Good thing I love the snow. yeehaw.
Here are some pictures I took when I was in St. Anton. I'll be making a blog post and will put up many-a-picture very soon (as I have tons that have piled up over the last month...). enjoy.
We skied two days of downhill and two days of super-g. It was all quite enjoyable... getting some wind in the face was really wonderful after my lovely vacation in the Canary Islands. Overall, the last 2 weeks really haven't been too bad....
The free-ski on the hill (for SG) was canceled tomorrow, so you can imagine how much snow is falling from the sky. It's quite the contradistinction to the last time we were here (RAIN RAIN RAIN)! There is certainly enough snow to race now...and it doesn't seem to want to stop coming down. It's nice to be back in winter. I am psyched to get out there and race the Super G on Tuesday...maybe there will even be some powder skiing sometime while I'm here. It seems that it is certainly going to be an option!
Good thing I love the snow. yeehaw.
Here are some pictures I took when I was in St. Anton. I'll be making a blog post and will put up many-a-picture very soon (as I have tons that have piled up over the last month...). enjoy.
wandering the streets
Leanne lookin' snazzy as usual
Alice. WINNING. Oh I'm up there somewhere too :)
trees. mountains. whatever.
checking out the scenery in St. Anton, Austria with Leanne and Abby (Alice's jacket, see right upper corner)
Lanzarote
I am in Puerto Calero, Lanzarote sitting out on my porch looking at the palm trees and the ocean, soaking up some sun. It feels so lovely. Stacey and I just got done with our morning work out, and we're about to head out for lunch, camel rides on the volcano, and to perhaps jump in the ocean on the black sand beach (on the south-western side of the island). We are staying on the eastern side of the island.
The transition from snowy Munich to here was quite strange, this isn't typical for a mid-season break. I think it will be good for both of us, though: refreshing and revitalizing....thus far we've had a great time. We landed yesterday at 130 at the Fuertaventura airport, rented our car (A PANDA!!!!!!) and drove to the ferry in Corralejo. The ferry ride was extremely rough, but thankfully it was quite short, and before we knew it we were driving off the ferry into the sun--sand dunes at our side and palm trees lining the roads. It was a strange adjustment yesterday--my head was foggy and my lungs and skin confused with the mass amounts of humid oxygen. But I'm starting to get used to it, as my white white skin is warmed and kissed by the heavy hot sun.
Well, it's time to head out. The camels are spitting my name.
The transition from snowy Munich to here was quite strange, this isn't typical for a mid-season break. I think it will be good for both of us, though: refreshing and revitalizing....thus far we've had a great time. We landed yesterday at 130 at the Fuertaventura airport, rented our car (A PANDA!!!!!!) and drove to the ferry in Corralejo. The ferry ride was extremely rough, but thankfully it was quite short, and before we knew it we were driving off the ferry into the sun--sand dunes at our side and palm trees lining the roads. It was a strange adjustment yesterday--my head was foggy and my lungs and skin confused with the mass amounts of humid oxygen. But I'm starting to get used to it, as my white white skin is warmed and kissed by the heavy hot sun.
Well, it's time to head out. The camels are spitting my name.
COrtina, Italy
I just realized I forgot to post while I was in Cortina... how silly! Cortina. Such a fun downhill course, and always the most wonderful snow. It was a really fun weekend. Yeah I guess that's all :) OH and congrats to Lindsey on the win, and Leanne on her 2nd
St. Anton, Austria
What a weekend! We had some pretty crazy days of training and racing in St. Anton this last week. I have to say I almost pooped my pants on the first training run last Thursday. I went early when the light was very dark and it was extremely fast, bumpy, and hard. So that was an interesting first run of downhill in almost a month! Yikes. But the snow came in hard on Thursday evening and we had to cancel our training run on Friday due to more than 30 cm on the top part of the course. Thankfully the snow let up and we were able to get the race off on Saturday, because it was definitely questionable! The snow was pretty soft in the DH race, which made the course feel much easier than it felt on Thursday. The start was moved down to the Super G start due to bad snow up top, so it was quite the sprint of a Downhill! But skiing through the finish was a relief and a buzz, especially when I looked up to see that Alice was winning! And, despite her expectations, she remained on top that day and crushed her first World Cup podium AND victory! I came in 5th, Lindsey was 6th, and Leanne and Julia tied for 15th, so it really was not a bad day for the Americans (with 4 in the top 15).
The Super G the next day was a little different from the Downhill. The snow managed to harden up quite a bit and it became quite the rodeo with bumps and ruts! It was not my best performance (I came in 17th), but I was thankful to get the wind in my face as many of our attempted skiing days have been shot down by mother nature lately.
It was beautifully sunny for the Downhill and Super G races, so perhaps our luck is turning around...
One can only hope. Either way, I'm psyched to head to Cortina on Wednesday for another weekend of speed. Waahhooooo!!!!!
Check out my blog for some pictures that I took over Xmas break :)
The Super G the next day was a little different from the Downhill. The snow managed to harden up quite a bit and it became quite the rodeo with bumps and ruts! It was not my best performance (I came in 17th), but I was thankful to get the wind in my face as many of our attempted skiing days have been shot down by mother nature lately.
It was beautifully sunny for the Downhill and Super G races, so perhaps our luck is turning around...
One can only hope. Either way, I'm psyched to head to Cortina on Wednesday for another weekend of speed. Waahhooooo!!!!!
Check out my blog for some pictures that I took over Xmas break :)
Schladming, Austria
Here I am, sitting in my hotel, watching the grounds drench and the trees bow to the wind. I think last year it was the same: warm and slushy on the hill, almost too mushy to ski on at finals. But with the time off I am left bored and willingly forced to write. So here is a blog post. Enjoy.
Val d'isere, France
I'm amazed we made it out of that place... what a crazy weekend! Before heading to Val d'Isere, we heard that it had been non-stop snowing there since December 1st. After watching the men's GS and SL race, it was clear that there was a ridiculous amount of snow and that the world cup races were difficult to host. It's tough to turn 3 meters of fluffy powder into compact, raceable snow, but the crew in Val d'Isere did an incredible job to make it happen.
On the day that we arrived in Val d'Isere (Monday), it was still dumping snow. We had Tuesday off, and woke up to even more snow falling from the sky, with hopes that it would clear for our training runs and races. Incredibly, when we woke up on Wednesday morning, the skies were bluer than my eyes and completely cloudless. So our first training run was a bit soft and slow, but fun nonetheless. After training I couldn't help but head out to powder ski... two years ago when our Super G race got canceled (due to 1 meter of new snow over night!), we went exploring on our powder skis. I think about that day of free skiing a lot--the snow was so fun and the runs were so steep and challenging. So I had to go out again....
On the day that we arrived in Val d'Isere (Monday), it was still dumping snow. We had Tuesday off, and woke up to even more snow falling from the sky, with hopes that it would clear for our training runs and races. Incredibly, when we woke up on Wednesday morning, the skies were bluer than my eyes and completely cloudless. So our first training run was a bit soft and slow, but fun nonetheless. After training I couldn't help but head out to powder ski... two years ago when our Super G race got canceled (due to 1 meter of new snow over night!), we went exploring on our powder skis. I think about that day of free skiing a lot--the snow was so fun and the runs were so steep and challenging. So I had to go out again....
Alice, Julia, and Anna (Julia's physio) joined me for some shredding Wednesday afternoon. The snow was perfect--it was such a cold day, and there were so many areas left untracked, it was hard to call it a day. But with another training run on Thursday and two races on the following days, I knew I had to save a bit of energy. The powder skiing was so refreshing. It's pretty rare that we head out for free skiing off of the runs that we train and race on, but it feels good to get away from all of the intensity that we endure within the ski racing world. It is restoring and allows me to gain a balanced perspective, which I sometimes forget about. It's easy to get caught up in pressure and expectations, and by free skiing I somehow can relieve myself of those negative feelings.
The second training day was very different from the first. The lights were out and it was impossible to see the ground. The snow hardened up a bit, but was definitely bumpier and it felt a bit faster. Come race day and the weather seemed to be cooperating (despite previous reports), it was somewhat sunny and, although the start was moved down due to wind, the wind was relatively calm up top. I had bib 28, and I felt pretty good about the day. When I went I noticed that the light was pretty flat and it was a bit windy up top, though none of that mattered since I lost control and went out on the 5th gate anyhow.... It was a tough race, the course was pretty bumpy and conditions changed throughout the day, but that is part of our sport. I was pretty bummed to have gotten tossed out of the course, but when I got to the bottom I saw that Leanne was in 2nd. NUTS!
I am so psyched for Leanne to have gotten her first podium. I would have guessed that she was going to do it in Super G, but she had a great run and put it together to do it in Downhill. It is so crazy to see all of my teammates skiing so fast. It is inspiring and also comforting, because I know I can be right there with them. I know luck will come my way one of these days and my hard work will pay off. I am just going to enjoy the ride, and trust that I'll ski well as long as I am having fun.
After an excruciatingly long drive yesterday to Sölden (10 hours!), I am enjoying a day off: watching some ski racing (women's and men's world cup GS), doing some laundry, and catching up on emails, blog posts, etc. I am staying here in Sölden for a few days of training before heading back home for x-mas. I am happy to have a few days to train and figure out some equipment issues I have been having, but I am already missing the race scene and can't wait for St. Anton. Until then, I'll post some pictures, videos, etc. of my travels and adventures. I am in the perfect place....
The second training day was very different from the first. The lights were out and it was impossible to see the ground. The snow hardened up a bit, but was definitely bumpier and it felt a bit faster. Come race day and the weather seemed to be cooperating (despite previous reports), it was somewhat sunny and, although the start was moved down due to wind, the wind was relatively calm up top. I had bib 28, and I felt pretty good about the day. When I went I noticed that the light was pretty flat and it was a bit windy up top, though none of that mattered since I lost control and went out on the 5th gate anyhow.... It was a tough race, the course was pretty bumpy and conditions changed throughout the day, but that is part of our sport. I was pretty bummed to have gotten tossed out of the course, but when I got to the bottom I saw that Leanne was in 2nd. NUTS!
I am so psyched for Leanne to have gotten her first podium. I would have guessed that she was going to do it in Super G, but she had a great run and put it together to do it in Downhill. It is so crazy to see all of my teammates skiing so fast. It is inspiring and also comforting, because I know I can be right there with them. I know luck will come my way one of these days and my hard work will pay off. I am just going to enjoy the ride, and trust that I'll ski well as long as I am having fun.
After an excruciatingly long drive yesterday to Sölden (10 hours!), I am enjoying a day off: watching some ski racing (women's and men's world cup GS), doing some laundry, and catching up on emails, blog posts, etc. I am staying here in Sölden for a few days of training before heading back home for x-mas. I am happy to have a few days to train and figure out some equipment issues I have been having, but I am already missing the race scene and can't wait for St. Anton. Until then, I'll post some pictures, videos, etc. of my travels and adventures. I am in the perfect place....
St. Moritz, Schweiz
Back on track! After too many days of travel, I finally made it to St. Moritz yesterday afternoon. We free skied (super g) on the race hill today and attempted to train slalom, but it was incredibly snowy and windy and not particularly productive. Nonetheless, I am actually excited for super combined tomorrow! I get to start 2nd in the super g portion tomorrow morning, so that should be good fun. The hill is a bit soft, so I'm psyched to be starting 2nd. Hoora!
The super g run starts at 1030 tomorrow, SL run is at 130...so check it out on Eurosport, ORF, or Universal Television if you get the chance.
Lake Louise turned out to be a great weekend--much better than last year. I made it to the finish in one piece, and managed to get 11th in the 1st dh, 18th in the 2nd, and 13th in the super g. I was happy to overcome a hill that gave me a whole new perspective on skiing (and life!) in a not-so-nice way. It felt incredible to ski through the finish, and felt even better to look up and see a decent result. I am so very happy to have that monkey off of my back, and to know that I have the speed I didn't want to think about last season.
But, here we are in Switzerland, and it's time for some super combi, super g, and gs! I'm hoping for a bit of sunshine, a little luck, and to throw down a good run or two. We'll see what happens....
The super g run starts at 1030 tomorrow, SL run is at 130...so check it out on Eurosport, ORF, or Universal Television if you get the chance.
Lake Louise turned out to be a great weekend--much better than last year. I made it to the finish in one piece, and managed to get 11th in the 1st dh, 18th in the 2nd, and 13th in the super g. I was happy to overcome a hill that gave me a whole new perspective on skiing (and life!) in a not-so-nice way. It felt incredible to ski through the finish, and felt even better to look up and see a decent result. I am so very happy to have that monkey off of my back, and to know that I have the speed I didn't want to think about last season.
But, here we are in Switzerland, and it's time for some super combi, super g, and gs! I'm hoping for a bit of sunshine, a little luck, and to throw down a good run or two. We'll see what happens....
Lake Louise, Canada
So I've decided that my homepage is boring. I'm going to start updating more often, with snippets of my daily life (boring as they may be), to keep it a teeny bit more exciting.
Today was day 5 on the Lake Louise downhill course up here in the Canadian Rockies... and, unlike last year, I managed to stay on my feet the whole way down! Yeehaw! The weather was totally insane today, with clouds of misty fog rolling in and out, sunshine every so often, and snow pooping from the sky like crazy at times. Unfortunately, I had to venture down the course during one of the poopy moments...but I had great fun doing it! I managed to sneak into 18th, and was very happy with the way I skied. BUT there was something to be more excited about...STACEY COOK GOT 2ND AGAIN! And Lindsey, once again, took the win! Those two girls really laid it out on the line today, taking out the rest of the field with fierce speed and skill. Julia placed 9th, Alice came in 11th (whoo!), I was 18th, and Leanne was 20th. Not a bad day for the American girls :)
I'm really looking forward to tomorrow...it's back to Super G! Hopefully the weather is just a bit more cooperative and we can get off a fair race. If not, I'm going to make friends with mother nature and do some crazy sun dance naked on top of the mountain before I run. We'll see.... but I'm starting 30th and can't wait to make some Super G turns! Yehawww.
until next time...
Today was day 5 on the Lake Louise downhill course up here in the Canadian Rockies... and, unlike last year, I managed to stay on my feet the whole way down! Yeehaw! The weather was totally insane today, with clouds of misty fog rolling in and out, sunshine every so often, and snow pooping from the sky like crazy at times. Unfortunately, I had to venture down the course during one of the poopy moments...but I had great fun doing it! I managed to sneak into 18th, and was very happy with the way I skied. BUT there was something to be more excited about...STACEY COOK GOT 2ND AGAIN! And Lindsey, once again, took the win! Those two girls really laid it out on the line today, taking out the rest of the field with fierce speed and skill. Julia placed 9th, Alice came in 11th (whoo!), I was 18th, and Leanne was 20th. Not a bad day for the American girls :)
I'm really looking forward to tomorrow...it's back to Super G! Hopefully the weather is just a bit more cooperative and we can get off a fair race. If not, I'm going to make friends with mother nature and do some crazy sun dance naked on top of the mountain before I run. We'll see.... but I'm starting 30th and can't wait to make some Super G turns! Yehawww.
until next time...
