I dropped the boys at school around 8am, Ty with all his gear and Jag with his school books. By the time I made it home I noticed the snow had started. I jumped on my 9am conference call and about an hour later happened to turn around and look out the window. What I saw looked like something out of a movie. The snow was blowing sideways and coming down in big flakes. I instantly worried about Ty and the kids on the trip but figured the school knew what they were doing. So back to work but all morning and early afternoon I couldn’t shake the thought of the kids out there above 10,000 feet on skis in this weather. Finally a bit after 2pm, I was upstairs doing some laundry when the phone rang. By the time I made it down, I missed the call but saw the school called. I immediately called back and the front desk transferred me to the Director of the Middle School. So now I’m really worried. He picked up and told me 2 kids (girls) got sick and they were turning back due to this and the weather. Turns out one girl passed out on the mountain and Ty was the only one to take off his skis and go to tend her. Then another was weak due to the altitude. Now we’re at 8500 feet but another 2000 feet or more up can play with your energy and breathing. Throw in the blizzard and the teachers made the decision to turn around. The other two groups made it safely to their huts as they were in areas more protected by trees and mountains that were also not as high in elevation.
The kids made it back by 4pm to school and they were covered in snow, cold and wet. They were all bummed at not making it up to the hut so today the school is having a pajama day and having all kinds of fun stuff for them. Still though, they’re disappointed.
Honestly I’m glad they turned back. Now I’m a pretty aggressive guy when it comes to outdoor activities but this storm was too dangerous. I’m back in Denver today for work so time to run. Hope all’s well, take care and God Bless. Dixie, the boys tried to call you last night but couldn’t reach you, they’ll try again tonight!