What a joyous little city this is.  Also not a bad place to get a Ph.D. - even if you are only 26 years old.  Holy crap Meredith....I'm still blown away at your accomplishments.  I can't wait until you're famous and then I can tell people I know you.

Fuji 800z and Kodak 160VC, 50mm 1.2L

You're probably wondering what happened to Day 2.  Well, I didn't forget it or forget how to count.  I'll be saving the Day 2 post until I get home.  You'll understand why once you see it :)

Today, however, was nothing short of incredible.  The skies cleared and we had a bluebird day in the chopper.  We skied about 24,000 vertical feet of terrain in 6 runs.  It was the kind of day you dream about (or I dream about).  I don't want it to end.

Here's a shot of me and the end of the day taken on my point and shoot Canon Powershot.

I made it.  The flights were bumpy and super sketchy, but well worth it.  I could not believe what I was seeing when we flew into the Port of Valdez.  This truly is the mecca for skiing/snowboarding.  I'm glad I made the pilgrimage.

Tomorrow morning something very near and dear to me begins.

Every since I was a kid, I have dreamed of one day going to Alaska and heli-boarding on the glaciers.  I'd watch the snowboard pros in the movies and say to myself:  "that would be the coolest thing one could ever do." 

Well, I've worked hard and saved my pennies.  It's time to kick this one off the ol' bucket list.  My dream becomes a reality starting tomorrow morning.

I depart John Wayne airport at 8am and begin my journey to VALDEZ, ALASKA where I'll be for the next week exploring the glaciers with a snowboard strapped to my feet with THIS company.  I CANNOT WAIT.  For me, this really is a dream come true.

Supposedly the lodge I'm staying at has WiFi, so check back for daily updates and photos.

I'm in Salt Lake City right now working on a commercial assignment.  While walking around outside, I found this grouping of signs.  I liked the colors present, but what really caught my attention was the tree behind it with colorful leaves on it.  Not common for these parts considering we're in the middle of winter.