Up To The Snow!

Hey everyone!  Happy Father's Day!

Last Sunday I went snowboarding at El Colorado.  I never really understood when the Chileans said "subo a la nieve" because it translates to "I go up to the snow" but now I get it.  There is no snow anywhere except in the mountains, so you're literally going to the snow--the only snow.  This is a little different compared to riding in the states where it snows at the base of the mountains as well.  Everyone here has to watch the websites for the resorts to know whether they're open or not because you certainly wouldn't know by looking around the city.

As you can see, they're still lacking some snow.  But they pushed enough of it onto the marked runs to make it worth while and I was actually impressed with the quality of the snow.  It's dry, like you'd find it in Utah.

There are three resorts right next to each other and there is a bus that goes up every day from a ski shop close to my apartment.  Super convenient.  Now I'm just hoping for more snow!

There are wild dogs all over Santiago, but I did not expect to find them roaming the ski runs.  I saw at least 5 just trotting around like they own the place.

Near the top of this picture, dead center, you can see what looks like a little jump.  There was an exposed section of rock that was perfect for hopping over and doing little spins.  This run was definitely my favorite of the day and occupied much of my morning.

See that shadowy place over there?  Those are not clouds.  That's Santiago.  The smog layers over it like a blanket.  Gross.

It was actually nice to be up there by myself, but I met a lot of people interested in riding with me.  I think it's rare they meet a gringo who's here for more than just a vacation.  I'm looking forward to a long winter of riding!

My host family invited me up to Chicureo for Father's Day.  I haven't been back up since my trip to the states and it's been nice to see them all again.  That box is full of American candy.  Flo and Amelia were especially excited.

We spent today at Juan Pablo's parents' house just a short drive away.  Here is the patriarch Manuel.  He is a very kind-hearted gentleman who bred several successful businesses from nothing.  It's always a treat to see him.

This family is a riot.  Manuel's oldest is also named Manuel.  I met him when we went to Santo Domingo back in the Spring.  He's a big fan of American music and every movie ever made.  Everyone in the Barrios clan has an infectious laugh.  What a character.  Check out the tattoos on his arms.

Next in line is my host dad Juan Pablo.  Everyone in the Barrios family has done such a great job making me feel included, but this guy is the one that agreed to take me in last October.  Thanks for everything, and a very happy Father's Day!

The baby of the family is Claudia, and in honor of Father's Day, this is her husband Jose Antonio.  They live right down the street from Juan Pablo and Lore so I've seen their kids a lot.  They have younger kids and they're adorable.

Today was so much fun.  It reminded me of the Father's Days we used to have at the farm when all of the Maders would get together.  We passed the afternoon in this little cabin they have in their back yard eating, talking, and laughing--lots of laughing.  It was great!

I'm spending tonight up in Chicureo getting ready for our last full week of classes.  This year is flying.  Global tests start the 26th and vacation starts on July 5th!

And of course the happiest of Father's Days to the best dad in the world!  Dad, thanks for everything you've given me and our family.  For teaching me everything from how to ride a bike to how to water ski, how to respect people, and how to be a great man.  I will be lucky if I turn out to be half the man you are.

They're running a "Santiago in 100 words" campaign in the metro stations.  Citizens write their city stories with the chance of being published.  In our station today was a story about a father and son walking to a park and stopping in a bar to have a drink together.  We are defined by our experiences with our parents, and I am so very proud to be my father's son.  Thanks for everything dad, I love you!