Whew, what a firestorm was caused by my decision not to ski in the rain
yesterday on Mount Washington!

I know many are tired of this thread already, but I have to say my 2 cents since
my character is being maligned.

It was quite simple. I arrive yesterday morning (on time, 1/2 hour before the
last of our group I might add) at the Auto Road base and it was pouring rain
and the forecast was for continuing rain showers with a chance of thunderstorms
in the afternoon. I've had 4 superb days on Mount Washington already this
season. There will be skiing for at least another weekend up there, and many
more weekends next year and the following years. So I decided on the basis of
safety and comfort to not ski that day. Quite simple. I drove by myself and
there were 4 others still planning to ski, so my action did not affect anybody
else. I spent the previous night in eastern Vermont, so it wasn't that much of
a detour to return back to Boston via Pinkham Notch. I would certainly not
classify this as one of the "big, big mistakes" made in my life.

I've spent many days walking in the alpine in the rain during my days as a field
geologist, so I know that the chances of taking a spill on slippery rocks are
much greater. I'm also a self-proclaimed "fair weather skier" and will avoid
skiing in the rain if my actions do not affect anybody else's day.

I also know it is to poke fun at somebody who "bailed" on a trip, so I hope the
ribbing continues. I just wanted to set the record straight for the benefit of
the list that I made the effort to arrive at the trailhead but decided to bail
based on the inclement weather that showed no signs of improving, and most
importantly, I did not affect anyone else's day except to provide much fodder
for list discussion.

Jim

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