Once again I reflect on my childhood experiences to find answers in my current life… My Dad always use to tell me “It’s not what you do, it’s who you do it with!” He always used to tell me you could have fun throwing pennies in a tin can if you were with friends!! HAHAHA

I find this advice true with many ski experiences. My best days are ripping with a great “Possie”. Supportive comments, positive vibes and lots of jokes and laughing is a recipe for fun!! More importantly, when being out in the backcountry you need friends who will have your back in case of injury and avalanches. Check out another math equation:

Bluebird _ Stable snow _ No wind _ Dreamy Lines _ Terrific friends = POWRIFIC

The Canadian Alpine Forecast is calling for clear skies and a steady barometer. The snow has had a few days to settle out, but it is still soft and terrific. A perfect time to ski that one line you have always been looking at and is in the back of your mind, the one that you keep saying if only we have right conditions. Not only are the conditions perfect, the weather and your friends are ready…that’s terrific, wait, no that’s POWRIFIC!! Try another math equation:

25cm fresh POW _ Valley freezing level _ Terrific friends = POWRIFIC

Winter storm Warning…. Music to every skiers’ ears. Coverage is good, the snow is soft, we have no fears. After we will celebrate with a cheers and too many beers. Remember those days that were so fun… let’s not get too emotional we will save the tears!!
Remember that storm day when it was snowing 3 cm an hour and the flakes were bigger than that toonie you don’t have because of the hole in your pocket? Remember how every lap was almost covered up by the time you came to hit the line next to it??
Check out this equation:
Steep trees _ Soft Pillows _ shouts of WHOHOOO _ The Possie = ?
ANSWER: POWRIFIC.

At times in the ski industry we see a different equation.
Bigger drops _ Faster turns _ Bigger exposure = fame.
It all boils down to what is fun and enjoyable. For me I listen to the wise words of my dad and keep the brain stimulated with POWRIFIC equations!! At the end of the day, month or season we will always have our POWRIFIC memories and will talk about it with our hommies.

Hey, remember that one day………

Story by Brian Baker
PHOTOS By: Seamus, Mike and Brian
VIDEO FOOTAGE: Filmed on Mt. Currie and Whistler backcountry January 2007