Finally got out on the snow a weekend after the big storms. Found a hill near the MITOC cabin at Rumney, which was logistically convenient and close enough for a day trip. The snow was still deep and light, but the pitch wasn’t quite steep enough. That, or I need to wax my skis. Still, weaving between the trees is always fun. I got stabbed in my shoulder by one, which actually drew blood even through my shell. Glad I was wearing my new helmet and goggles. Chicks dig scars, right?
Sledheads at Summit
Lunch spot
Bottom of run
Tired and hungry
Route Map
Thanks to Nadya and Keith for the photos
Got back to the city with just enough time for a shower before the LSC SciFi marathon. Couldn’t miss that MIT tradition.
Returned from my trip to the country which must not be named.
Classic Fins
Cigar Dogs
Courtyard Band
Street Stickball
Decaying Beauty
Preparing for the second leg of our adventure, we went to Guatemala City to catch an early flight. Ruth was interested in exploring the capital, which Lonely Planet describes as “dirty, dangerous, and fascinating.” True on all counts.
We’re staying in Marianna’s Petit Hotel, which is in a guarded compound near the airport. Inside, it is decked out in Christmas gear, including a trainset and funicular.
Out in the city, we did a walking tour of the historic center. Found cheap souvenirs on the crowded Calle Real, including a 999999-in-1 FunStation Game, which must be the result of integer overflow. The central park was filled with families enjoying the sunshine, and two clowns who were apparently very entertaining. Right off the park, the beautiful National Cathedral is fronted by 12 columns documenting the names of the disappeared. Impressive to see that recognition out in the open, even if it is years too late. Stopped in a bar that was apparently a favorite of Che’s. It serves beer by the goblet, which is a good start. More on him later, as our adventure continues…
El Portal
Resistencia Lesbica
National Cathedral
After calling home for Christmas, Ruth and I decided to go off and climb a volcano. It was an hour drive, then a 3.5 km hike through jungle up to the crater. The final pitch was covered in loose rocks that slide backwards with each step, and embed themselves in your shoes. The hipster girl on our trip wearing leggings was poorly equipped. Actually reaching the lava flow, we stepped gingerly off the loose rock onto still cooling magma. The sight of a melted sneaker sole was a deterrent against venturing too far from our guide. However, some dudes showed their machismo by lighting a cigarette from lava plucked from the flow. Perhaps the second most dangerous thing I can think of doing. After the incredible sunset, we stumbled down in the dark, thankful for Hannah’s warning to bring flashlights. Feliz navidad.