Never-ending Autumn

The women’s team (plus Andrea Henkel) on a hike outside Midway, UT. (photo: Hannah Dreissigacker)

After our Germany camp, I headed to Alaska, where the autumn colors and temperatures were in full swing.  I was ready for training in tights and long sleeves, and the colors of an Alaskan fall were the perfect addition.  About the time the temperature started dropping to that uncomfortable not-quite-fall-not-yet-winter level, I headed out for a week in Boise.  The high-desert climate didn’t disappoint, and I was treated to cold nights and mid-60F, sunny days.  It was great to be home for a few short (and busy!) days.  I only wished it could have been a little longer.  But Utah was calling, and I headed to the Heber Valley for our annual camp.  Temperatures and weather continued perfectly for our first week, but we were in for a surprise during the second week.  A drop in temperatures and an early snowfall delayed our second time trial race, but otherwise only provided us with some excitment.  A few days later, the snow was gone, and week three has begun with bluebird skies and warm temperatures.  As Hurricane Sandy bears down on the eastern US, we are glad to be enjoying the perfect training weather Utah is offering us.

Birthday celebrations in Alaska!  Mmm, pumpkin pie! (photo: Zachary Hall)

Part way up Bogus Basin Rd. outside Boise. A beautiful rollerski I always try and fit in when I’m home! (photo: Beth Studebaker)

The women above Orem, UT on a long hike/run. Our new orange jackets were perfect for hunting season… (photo: Hannah Dreissigacker)

On Sunday, I’ll be heading back to Alaska and marking the end of my autumn.  One week in Alaska, then off to Sweden for pre-World Cup camp and then the racing season will be off and running.  It’s crazy to think the season is literally just around the corner, but I’m feeling excited and ready. 

A view of the Boulder Mtns from Pioneer cabin outside Sun Valley, ID.  (photo: John Studebaker)

Ciao, fall!