Holy Switzerland....I actually live/ski here

35CM in GE...go ski?

2010-12-05T07:29:00.000-08:00

So after a record 35CM in parts of GE a work from home day let KK and I take an hour lunch break to go ski in Carouge :)
Home:

Heading into town:

On the tram:

Destination Carouge:

Where's the ski are??

A little ski:

Heading home:

Team GG and KK back home:

Snowvember to December...keep it coming!

2010-12-05T07:11:00.000-08:00

The little one continues to want and stay in here nice ward temp home, so I took the opportunity to ski some more early season pow with the normal crew in the Valais. We hit up Ovornaz for the first time and were welcomed to a sunny and cold day for scralping the gnar ;)

Down skis were in effect :

X-treme team:

Tam:

Tom:

Ripz:

GG:

Rogue Beer30:

Bike, ski, rap, and Bebe prep :) Nov 2010

2010-12-05T06:49:00.000-08:00

I have no idea where November went but looking through the pics I went biking at Chaumont, CH;

Tom:
Ripz:

GG:

I busted a rap with PE and Chuck D:

Got some great gifts for LS:

Saw the first snow:

Skied the first snow @ Zinal:

..and L7L:

Ate some KFC in FR ;):

...and ate a nice Thanksgiving with friends (thanks Mom for the Cranberry sauce:)

Saw my wife rock out some killer gear for LS:

Watched my wife and soon to be daughter grow:

...life and wife are as beautiful as ever:

...more to come.....

Photo Catch Up! 2 Months of great times....

2010-10-10T02:34:00.000-07:00

So blogging has taken a backseat to bebe prep, work, and travels but I want to make sure that I capture the wonderful times KK and I have enjoyed in Euroland. This post will include the locations, peeps, and a slideshow. Hope you enjoy.

August 2010 Les Deux Alpes with Jay and Tom.... AKA: "Mancation"

ALL PICS HERE!

GG Pickles: August 2010:

August 2010: PDS with Chris, Jay, and Tom (Post day "For Noise: in Pully CH with Tom, KK, and Tam):

ALL PICS HERE

August 2010: Zurich, Neuchatel, Munten..and Hornusser! with KK.
Zurich:

Neuchatel:

Hornusser!

Munten:

September 2010: Les Get with Chris:

September 2010: GG Family Visit (THANK YOU SOOOOOOO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING!)

"LS" loves her new handmade "MG" gear already :)

More HERE

September 2010: Leysin Bike with Jay, Al, and Tom:

September 2010: Mallorca, ES...KK, LS, and GG: AKA: "Bebemoon":

More HERE

IE and PDS....life is good!

2010-08-03T12:26:00.000-07:00

So work brought me to IE. Everytime I go to IE it is to the hotel-plant-hotel...but this time I escaped for a little golf with my man Myles. After a 15 month lay-off it was a challenge but the first hole I hit a 300 yard drive...length was never my issue ;)The course was killer:

Myles showing the skills!

After a nice visit to "sheep-land" it was back to CH for a little DH at PDS with J and Tom. A perfect day welcomed us at Morgins and Chatel:

Perfect!

More pics

BCN! Home of Tapas, 'Toni, and WC Champions

2010-08-03T11:57:00.000-07:00

so after a quick turn around from Istanbul KK and I were off to my first visit to ES. BCN was the location and we had nice plans to chill in BCN for Friday night and Sat and then head to Costa Brava. We arrived, hooked up with a ca, dropped it at our hotel and then went for nice tapas in the city center. KK hooking up with a "beer":

The real stuff:

After a nice dinner we headed back for an eventful Saturday AM.

The next day the weather was perfect and we headed to the Sagrada Familiamade by this guy Gaudi ............WOW!!!!!! This "church" has been an on going project since 1882. SUPER IMPRESSIVE!

This is a must see when in BCN. After we went the the Park Guelle:

BCN rocks!!! Public transit is killer too! Just to "MB"

In the afternoon we headed to the Costa Brava.

After a night of rest we took a drive down the coast and headed to the beach..super pretty:

...and then it was time to head home...1hour later back in GE and ready to rock another week. Overall BCN is CA$H!!! We will be heading back soon.

...a walk in the parc....

2010-08-03T11:52:00.000-07:00

So I was bouncin to Turkey on Sunday night but before KK and I decided for a little walk in the "parc". The day was perfect for a nice little walk on the Jura..perfecto!

KK and "seed" were stoked!

WOW!

...happiness....

More VTT: La Clusaz

2010-07-26T12:25:00.000-07:00

So Jay and I headed out for a 2 day DH rip at La Clusaz. It was the first time there for both of us and a great "boys" weekend chilling and enjoying the hot weather in FR.
GG:

J:

Scenery:

End of day chillin:

A great time in FR with my boy. As always more to come! -G

Time to Chillax...IT!

2010-07-16T01:08:00.000-07:00

So after a few weeks of biking and many long days at work KK made some reservations and we were off again to our favorite little coastline in IT near Rapallo. Unlike the past few times we did nothing but chill on the beach. Go to Portofino for coffee and pasteries. Watch the WC and chill in the little village near the hotel. The weather was hot and perfect for a weekend in IT....we actually did not take a ton of pics....but you get the idea :)

As you can see life continues to be tough ;) We continue to be blessed and lucky to have such beautiful places close to GE. As always more to come!

GG and KK Jardin!

2010-07-16T00:55:00.000-07:00

So this year I think we got it right after a low crop last year...(Thanks Dad for the string advice!)

More DH..Anzere!

2010-07-16T00:43:00.000-07:00

So Jay and I headed up into the mtns to check out a new place for DH...Anzere. A great day with about 10 other riders.

Loving life!

GG:

Lunch:

J:

End of day:

Another great day in CH!

Season Opener: CRANS!

2010-06-20T02:23:00.000-07:00

So for the 2nd year in a row the Extreme Team hit up Crans on the opening weekend. I met up with Tom and Jay at Lavaux early in the AM Saturday. As we arrived we hoped the clouds would break but it was a little cool and foggy:

Jay navigating the fog:

..but at around 2 it broke and it was just perfect! The boys were ready:

Tom:

Jay:

G:

Team Extreme!

A perfect day with great friends. Thanks boys!!
That night we went to T+Ps to watch the USA draw with England for the WC (GOOOOOO USA!!!) Sunday KK and I went into France to get some gardening stuff and then came home and chillaxed (I was leaving for DE on Monday) As always more to come.

Bike,Run, Swim:The CH Triathlon

2010-06-20T02:01:00.000-07:00

The weather has been marginal this Spring but the weekend of the 4th through the 6th was perfect. Friday night KK and I just chilled in Carouge and I prepared for a day of biking with J. I woke up on Saturday to picture perfect day and headed to Biel for some DH at the local telepherique.

The day was super hot +30C but it was nice in the trees..J showing his steeze:

It was a nice day of biking with J, but I had to run home to attend the CH vs. IT friendly at the Stade. After a quick turn around KK headed to the Stade to meet up with Mette and Alex. En route:

The stade:

The fans:

Our seats:

HOP SUISSE!!!!

The game ended in a 1-1 draw which was a good result before the team headed to South Africa. KK was spent so we headed home to rest up to Sunday.
Sunday arrived and it was another perfect day so KK and I headed to Evian for a nice chill day:

When we arrived we were surprised by amount of bikers around and we found out it was the Critérium du Dauphiné

It was a perfect day so we hit up the pools first and then went a watched the race...one thing that we didn't know was the town was fully surrounded by the competition so we could not escape until 7..but that was OK we made the best of it and had a coffee and watched the race.:

The winner Contador:

We were able to escape at 7 and headed back to GE. Another great weekend!

Day #4 VTT-DH 2010. Les Gets

2010-05-30T03:58:00.001-07:00

So Les Get in FR opened for the season and Tom and Jay came down on Friday night and we headed out in the AM. Upon arrival it was a picture perfect day.

..and we were ready to rock!

Rockin northshore:

Turns:

..and air (mostly Tom :):

....and some chilling too:

Another great day....as always more to come!

Blair EuroTour 2010

2010-05-30T03:52:00.000-07:00

...so Blair here are some pics to remember your visit to CH.......you visited Geneva, Lutry, Lausanne, and Carouge in CH and Metabief and Chamonix in FR. Hope you enjoyed and come back soon....you're always welcome to stay with cousins GG and KK!

Day #3 VTT-DH 2010

2010-05-30T03:50:00.000-07:00

Another great day at "The Bief" with Tom and Jay. The girls went on a nice hike too!

The cows delated our exit :)

Day #2 VTT-DH 2010

2010-05-30T01:42:00.001-07:00

Even the cold temps didn't stop us from braving the FR weather in search of DH action. Tom and I headed on a very cloudy, rainy, and cold Sunday to Metabief. Tom was ready for action:

As you can see hats were needed.....even a little snow fell:

..but the riding was a blast:

Tom rocking out post ride:

Another "cool" day of VTT.

Day #1 VTT-DH 2010

2010-05-27T11:01:00.000-07:00

Jay and I hit up "THE BIEF" for the fist day of DH for 2010. The day was cloudy, but the biking rocked!!

Jay pimpin:
'

GG :

..and of course the great CH ride home:

IT 2010

2010-05-27T10:54:00.000-07:00

The slideshow does not do the trip justice.........Trieste SLO, and Venice..SICK! (more here too!)

First, thank you Marco for the family treatment! You rock! You are lucky to have grown up in such a beautiful place with such a great family. KK and I will be back soon...promise. (..and of course get back to CH!!!) Give Alfi and Neve our best.
Second, for the Kirby clan to making there way out to IT and GE to visit. KK and I appreciate it and we will see you soon state side.
...as always more to come!

Last day of 09/10 ski season?????

2010-04-25T08:42:00.000-07:00

So the X-team A and B squad were in full effect for the yearly Beach Party at G3. We met up with Tam, Tom, and J in the AM to rendezvous with Mr. Pine and Matt in Le Sepey. After picking up some chow for a picnic it was off to the glacier. We were blessed with a perfect day!

The whole crew was enjoying the sun and snow...KK and Tamster:

Jay:

Tom:

Al and Matt:

..and skiing too!

...even the local birds were enjoying the sun:

After a few runs in the mushy snow it was time for a picnic...

...at picnic time Tom decided to switch up the gear so he could get a free drink at the beach party:

After a few more runs it was time to head to the beach party...the team was ready to celebrate another great year...and AL'S B-DAY!...and of course to get in a last hot tub!

After a few cocktails at the beach party it was time to head home (thanks KK for being our DD)..but we had one more for Al at the local bar in Les D...the saucy b-day boy!

As the season ends I am a little sad...but I think back to all the great times I have enjoyed with my wife and friends...and I feel blessed to have the opportunity to live here in CH and live the life I do.....truly......and as always much love to my family that continues to support my love, passions, and ambitions....as always more to come!

Ski and Bike= Awesomeness!

2010-04-25T08:33:00.000-07:00

So Tam, Tom, Jay, and I headed to Crans to get in a last few turns bfore the snow melted away. KK was meeting up with Mette so she chilled in GE. It was perfectly sunny and we had a great time on the hill exploring Crans.

Picnic time!

Getting a little thin on the bottom:

At the end of the day we stopped by the local brewery for an end of day beer.

That night we hooked up with KK at J's and celebrated his b-day (belated) with a nice BBQ.
The next day KK got up early and enjoyed the great weather and did some biking around GE.

On the way home we hit the "marche" in FR and hooked up with some b-fast booty.

A great way to start the spring....we even got our deck garden started too!

As always more to come!

1 year and counting.....

2010-04-18T10:05:00.000-07:00

So a year ago on April 13th KK and I made it official....and a few weeks before that we said our vows in CH, so in celebration of that day we headed back into the mtns to spends some quality time with each other. On Friday night we headed to Sion for a nice dinner at GP and stayed at the old faithful Ibis.
Saturday we woke to a picture perfect day and headed to Chandolin/St. Luc to get some skiing in. Down skis were in the house!

Weather was perfect!

Skiing was fun:

...but the best part....we arranged to stay at the Weisshorn. This is a hotel built in the late 19th century and is only accessible by touring or cat. KK and I opted for the cat because we had our alpine gear. We waited a few minutes in the sun before our chariot arrived.

Upon arrival we were taken back in time...super old school and perfect!

Perfect...and had the best views:

KK had set up a bottle of bubbly and some flowers...as if thing could get better!

We had a great time at Weisshorn that night with a few glasses of bubbly and a nice meal in the Alps. the next AM we packed up the backpack and headed back across the ski area to our car in Chandolin......and we didn't forget the flowers!

On the way home we grabbed some sandwiches from the local bakery and ended our already great weekend with a nice picnic in a vineyard.....

Don't pinch me......I don't want to wake up..........

Copenhagen: V2: Easter in DK

2010-04-18T09:42:00.000-07:00

GE to DK is only 1:45 and KK and I got up early on Good Friday to head to see another KK (Klaus and Karola) on Copenhagen. The weekend was extremely nice with a mix of family time with Timo AKA: T-Money, sightseeing, downtime, and some herring :) Thanks K+K for the hospitality...you rock!
Our hosts:

They treated us like royalty....

..showing us around the seaside...

..with a private tour guide...

...local food...

...local shopping...

..showed us some imported traditions....

..and of course chill time with T....

....thank you....!

EPIC!!! (catching up)

2010-04-18T08:34:00.000-07:00

So the next 3 posts won't be on the top of the list for quality of writing content, but hope the pics paint a nice picture of the past few weeks of life in Euroland with GG and KK.

So finally the Winter Holiday 2010 arrived and KK and I headed with no reservations, no real plan, and a rack of skis to IT on Friday night (MArch 19th) It had been 15C in GE most of the week so our expectations were limited from a skiing standpoint but we knew we would have a great time enjoying life together.

PM Friday March 19th - AM Saturday March 20 (Cogne, IT)- Happy B-Day KK!
"Aosta Style"

PM Saturday March 20th- AM Sunday March 21st (Ebusco, IT): Hotel Albereta:
"Four Star Life"

AM Sunday March 21st -PM Monday March 22nd (Lago Iseo, Pescheria, Verona IT):
"Loving Lago"
Iseo:

Percheria:

Verona:

PM Monday March 22nd - PM Wednesday March 24th (Madonna Di Campiglio and Passo Tonale IT):
"Finally Sun"
Madonna:

Passo Tonale:

PM Wednesday March 24th - PM Thursday March 25th (Bergamo,IT):
"Hidden Gem"

PM Thursday March 25th- Saturday March 27th (Gressoney-Alagna,IT):
"Big lines and big food"

Alagna:

PM Saturday March 27th- Sunday March 28th: (Courmayuer, IT- GE, CH)

Overall another great time with my wonderful partner in life. We (heart) you IT!

Some new and some old.....

2010-03-15T11:28:00.000-07:00

The past two weekend the snow has been marginal...but we still enjoyed.

Last wekend Jay and I hit Wassergrat (+1 on the new list) and KL and I hit Grand St. Bornard/ Both we not that great conditions but we got to see some new places.

This past we skied Moleson on Saturday with Jay. Only 30 minutes from Laussane and great place to tour and get on the Fribourg Alps.

KK got her first touring experience:

WOW!

'

After we hit up Gruyeure....

and had a drink at the Giger bar (search GIGER to see what this guy is up too)

That night we hooked up with Jen and then Marco cooked a great dinner at his...we brought the desert from Gruyeure:

That night we stayed at J+Js and then got up the AM to hook up with Tam and Tom to hit up SSB. The extreme team getting ready on a very sunny day!

No peepee at SSB:

Due to a ski demo the lines were huge (30 minutes) so we headed to Vicheres to finish the day...WOW..again! This is the first time I have been to Vicheres with visibility:

KK finishing a great day:

..on a somewhat funny point....in CH they pretty much let anyone sled on the ski slopes...and sometimes the sled gets away...2 points for this kid:

He just grabbed his sled and was off....must have been French ;-) The Swiss are too polite.
So as always a great time in the Alps with friends and my wonderful wife. More to come.

On a side here are some bonus food pics and KK and I trying to skate in GE.
Moules at Chez KK and GG:

Skating in Parc du Bastion:

Danger :-)

CH love for everyone!

2010-03-04T11:34:00.000-08:00

So Friday came around and it was time to ski again..but not on Friday :( ....but the Ripz did a nice job of taking care of my boy Jason and showing him the CH POW!!! (NICE WORK BOYS!) 50+ hit Champex just at the right time for Jason to get a little fix before heading back to Swaziland:

...and it was deep! Jason feeling the CH love:

That night Ripz chilled in Champex with the Swazi crew and Marco, KK, and I arrived around 8pm. That night we had a great dinner (thanks Jason) and we closed out the Swazi holiday in style with Champagne and leftovers.

Saturday came quickly and the "extreme team" was ready! La Foulay was the call and the right one! Our private paradise!

LF:

WOW!...but at about 1PM (sorry MC and Tam) the wind kicked up and it was game over...but KK, Marco, and I hit up Champex:

..another great day. That night we stayed at J+J's and saw Tom do some ice dancing ;-)

A great time with steaks, hockey, and beer.....what more can you ask for? :) Sunday after a great pancake b-fast and J+J's we headed home to sort some work....but the day wasn't over...it blessed us with a great sunset:

Overall another great weekend to remember. Thanks again Swazi crew for the sharing of the chalet and hopefully we hope to see you soon back in CH.

Swazi visitors in CH....come back anytime!

2010-03-04T11:15:00.000-08:00

So Jason, Fiona, and Alex came to CH after a nice 15 hours+ of travel. They arrived on Thursday on a very nice day in GE. I grabbed them from the aeroport and then headed back to work. That night KK and I kicked if with the Swazi crew and had a nice pulled pork dinner at home. Friday KK and I worked while Fiona and Jason did some chilling in GE and saw the sights. Friday night we ate some "Moules" at home and again relaxed.

Saturday came and it was time to go to Champex. Jason had rented a place for the week right on the lac and 200M from Champex. We arrived in the mid afternoon on Saturday after a chill AM and picking up food for the week in Martigny.

The chalet view:

After settling in we went into town and saw the biathlon events that were happening very cool and we have pics.....but camera is still MIA. Saturday night we had a nice pasta dinner in the chalet and played cards.

Sunday came and in the AM KK, Jason, and I hit Champex....so spectacular!

KK and Jason:

..and finally the snow was good for Jason in CH!

..and K too!

A great morning led KK and I taking care of Alex and Jason and Fiona getting some private time skiing/boarding in Champex. That PM we had a nice beer30 at a local bar and then had a nice din at the chalet.

Monday came (a very day off) and we hit Champex again. AM with Jason, PM with Fiona. The girls:

Jason and GG airing it out:

..a great day!

That night KK and I had to return to the grind so we said bye to the Swazi crew and headed back to GE. A great time with friends........more to come!

...it was fun again :-) Encore G3

2010-02-14T10:02:00.000-08:00

So Saturday appeared again like it does every week and KK and I were off to meet the crew plus Matt (a guy from Belchertown living in Prague). We got to G3 to find it being VERY cold (-15) and a little windripped snow..but we found our spots on the frontside:

then over the "knuckle"....

..and then Frontside Couloir with KK, Marco, and Matt:

..and then frontside Martis (nice work KK over the "grass" traverse)..no pics knee deep 1st track...to another frontside and beer30 Rooster..WOW!...and to add to the great day a nice surprise fondue party at J+Js for Jen's B-day.

As always more to come!

G3: +2 powdays. Lovin CH!

2010-02-14T09:38:00.000-08:00

After another hectic week of work I headed to Lausanne and Fribourg to see a concert with the boys on Friday night and KK hooked up with Mette for a little dinner The next AM KK caught up on personal work and I headed with Tom, Marco, and Jay to G3. The day was a mix of sun and clouds...and pow.
Arrival:

Where we ski :-)

The skiers:

...and great day..but cut short do to vis...but we were back with my wonderful wife on Sunday..and she killed it! First time frontside for KK and she did a great job.
The fence and start:

The traverse..

..the pow!

...the boys:

Another great day with friends skiing in the Alps. The ride home just capped it off:

Jura Plus G3 Minus Work= Fun Time!

2010-02-14T09:29:00.000-08:00

So KK was in Cinci and I was here working 12 hour days and trying to get DOWN moving. Saturday struck and I picked up KK at the airport and we had a very nice breakfast in Carouge. After I met up with Marco at La Dole (Jura) to make some tracks in the new snow that fell. Marco enjoying CH!

..end of day sun!

That night KK and I caught up on the events of the week and like a trooper got up at 6:45 Sunday AM to hit up G3 for some Pow! It was super cold (-20C) with a mix of weather but the whole crew enjoyed the day..capacity crowd on hand!

...we were about half population of G3 that day:

KK:

Ripz:

Marco:

..and one broken FKS (I had to ride 1000M on one ski):

...as always more to come!

A little Jura....home mtns...GE, CH

2010-01-24T11:03:00.000-08:00

So KK was heading off to Cinci and I was at home chilling...instead of driving far (no new snow) I stayed close and hit up the Jura. Saturday I hit up Crozet and on Sunday with Marco did a tour around La Dole. Great for only 30 minutes from GE...and with this view...WOW!

Marco made a nice pasta lunch:

..and the snow was not bad:

..another great day in CH!..more to come as always.

A special day in IT.....Toula and Arp

2010-01-24T10:43:00.001-08:00

So Sunday it had snowed a good amount in Cour and the IT side on Mont Blanc. Marco knew a friend that knew a guide in Cour (Rudy)...so we met up on a sunny Monday to get on the goods. We arrived in Cour to meet up with Luigi and Rudy. Just like on Saturday we hit the Toula glacier first..but in much better conditions. Marco was stoked:

Skis were ready to go:

So were the views:

First rip...but first the stairs of death:

...woohooo! Great run...no time to stop so no pics. Chillin after the first run:

..up again!..but this time no stairs but a nice couloir:

..and into the glacier:

..and some nice turns:

..and the best bathroom in the world:

this time we skied to the valley floor:

After a quick lunch:

..it was off to hit the Arp....WOW!!!

..in the Arp...J:

At the bottom we hit the cattrack and waited for our ride:

..a nice ride from Rudy:

...a some pillows to finish the day:

......unreal:

Thanks you Rudy, Marco, and J for making this day so great....as I write this I am amazed that I get to live this life....

Ski..ski...and ski again......MEGA POST!!!!!

2010-01-24T09:52:00.001-08:00

So we returned back to CH after a great holiday and the snow returned. On the first weekend we got DOWN and headed into FR. We went with J and Marco to Villard De Lans to try and stay out of the high avi conditions and get on some 45cm of pow...the only issue no base! The 45CM was fun but you had to be very careful how deep you pushed the skis. One the first run I hit my ski on a rock and put a huge rip in my ski..overall the day was good though January 9:

As the snow settled it was time to hit Cour on Sunday...and it turned out to be a great day......enjoy! January 10:

.....and 5 days pass and we get on it again. This time we head to the IT side of Cham with a guide. Al, Marco, and Jay.......WOW! January 16:

Toula:

Al:

Marco:

A little couloir:

Cour side"

Saturday: 1/17 at Flaine:

...and in between a little celebration for my b-day!!! (Thanks KK)

WOOOHOOOO!!! 35 is going to rock!

2010...a new decade for G.....

2010-01-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

.... so now for the look back and the new goals..
2009:
1) Stay positive + (DAILY...I was just thinking about this today. It is so easy to let the daily small things grind on you...but I/we are so blessed with the life we lead.....I continue to be thankful everyday and keep everything in the positive perspective that I developed over my 35 years)
2) Love my life..daily. (See above!)
3) Relax. Over the past few years I have put a lot of pressure on myself to succeed, create a business, etc etc. 2009 is a year that still back a little (no worries I am still VERY engaged at work...and relaxing is different then slacking) and enjoy the life that I have been blessed with. (2009 was unbelievable. I got married...(KK you are my partner in crime, travel partner, support pillar, and partner for life...I love you), traveled to Russia, Poland, Turkey, South Africa, etc, continued to progress professionally, and really important continued to be me. Loving my life, family, and friends)

So for 2010 this is basically the same:
1) Stay positive +
2) Love my life..daily.
3) Get healthier and feel better than I did in 2009. (I am an old chappy at 35 ;-)
4) Connect with my family more.
5) Start DOWN

...and like last year......BIG THANK YOU....to...
My parents....for being the best since day 1. I love you!
My family for the continued messages, notes, and cards...I look forward to see you all soon.
KK for the love and an support that you give me daily.
My friends for making my life in CH that much better.
...and my friends at home for the support you gave me to following my dreams and passions.

As always more to come in 2010..if this one even comes close to 2009 I am a very blessed man.(I said that last year...so hope it comes true again) Much love, GG

Happy New Year...2010! Coolin In Cali!

2010-01-24T07:27:00.000-08:00

Every time I talk about Cali I sing this songs chorus of this song to KK, so I thought I would add it on the blog ....and it goes perfectly with the theme.

So KK and I headed into SF and met up with the Becksters for a little NY celebration. We planned to go to a party at Cellspace for a Bohemian Carnival. Friends of Becks were playing the party and it sounded cool...so we set off to the thrift stores and grabbed some costumes for the evening.

After we met up at Beck's for a little pre-party and got ready.

The finished product:

The crew:

After a few cocktails...I forget this ladies name but she brought Mescal in a jar....

....we were primed to go.

Upon arrival I knew this would be a cool NY. There were circus performers, bands, and everyone was dressed up.....we felt underdressed ;-)

At around midnight Tornado Rider went on (friends of Beck's) and they brought 2010 in with style:

..and then all the performers jumped on stage and it went wild:

The night ended with us luckily getting a cab at 3 in the morning back to our hotel.

The next AM we got up and headed to find a b-fast place...but with little open we got the breakfast of champions!

..and took a nice walk:

...so here is to an unbelievable 2009 and a repeat in 2010! Much love to all my family and friends!

Holiday 2009..West Coast Tour!

2010-01-24T06:38:00.000-08:00

Below is a little slide show of the great holiday time KK and I had in Cali. Thank you everyone for the gifts, tours of California's beautiful coast, and great food. Enjoy the pics as we enjoyed the time together.

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-12-23T09:34:00.000-08:00

We are going to be covered on the TGR blog for this one...here is a little sampling......once it is posted I will link it!
GG:

KK:

Ripz:

....bad vis..but nice SNOW!..and a little CH steeze!

2009-12-23T09:29:00.001-08:00

Zinal was the location again and we hooked up with Alex for a dawn patrol to Z again. The visibility was marginal, but the snow was nice!

KK:

Marco:

Ripz:

That night we headed home and then got into the X-mas feel with a little shopping and the Escalade parade:

...a very cool weekend...as always I feel extremely blessed!

blogging in brief..Zinal V2

2009-12-23T09:20:00.000-08:00

Zinal was the location to hit again and we hooked up with J, Marco, Tam and some of the TGR crew. Great snow and peeps....

KK:

The Team:

..a great day 1:

After a nice nights stay at our favorite Ibis if was off for Day 2:

....another great weekend in CH.

Turkey Day 2009!

2009-11-29T09:29:00.001-08:00

So we had two. One with the Lausanne crew (no pics..THANKS JEN AND J) and one with the GE crew. KK and I made pies, Turkey, stuffing, and of course the infamous green jello mold!

...so what am I thankful for??? To many to list but here are a few:
1) My family ..I would not be here if it wasn't for you..you are everything to me.
2) My wife....your support, your unconditional love, and just you being you
3) My friends....you rock!
4) The ability to live my dreams...Living in CH, Down, the Alps, etc, etc, etc
I give thanks for everything..daily! As always more to come!

Day 2: Zinal!

2009-11-29T09:16:00.000-08:00

So KK, Ripz, Tamster, and I hit up Zinal for a little pisten carvin and a little scenery. The snow has still not hit CH, but it is coming. A great day overall and got us super stoked for the season to come!
view from the ibis in Sion:

KK getting ready:

The area:

Stoked!

SkiSki:

The return home:

Cafe in the alps:

Another cool day in the alps....what do I have to complain about...we are blessed!

Quick Trip for FR: Grenoble and Aix Le Bain

2009-11-29T09:13:00.000-08:00

So after a nice weekend of skiing in CH the weather turned rainy and warm, so KK and I explored FR a little and hit up Grenoble...which is a very cool little city and very pretty. We walked around. Had a cafe, did a little shopping, just chilled

KK hooked up with a new do too!

That night we hit up Aix le Bains..and hit up the Bains!
Overall a cool weekend of exploring.

October and November: Food Gawk!

2009-11-29T09:01:00.000-08:00

Here are a selection of food Gawked from the past two months:
The MASSIVE Calzone with my parents in Carouge:

Homemade OctoberFest Meal:
Tatin in Grenoble:

Moules (rated 5 star from Mom)

Homemade Apple Pie:

FOOD IS LIFE!

Day 1: Ski Season 09/10

2009-11-29T08:54:00.000-08:00

So KK and I headed to G3 to meet up with Al and scralp the early season gnar....The road to G3:

Al was stoked.

KK and Al:

..KK was stoked too!

The gnar!

So very little was open but we made the best of it with a walk to the top of the observation platform:

..a little coaster ride:

..and a beer in LD:

Overall a nice START to the season.

..I miss you too! GG Fam Visit 2009

2009-11-29T08:42:00.000-08:00

Below is a little new feature to the GG blog....

..so as you can see we had a great visit. Next time hopefully my parents will stay longer and enjoy the Euro lifestyle in GE more! (Open invitation!!!)
As always I continue to feel the tremendous support for the life I lead from my parents and I feel extremely blessed to have the opportunity to see my family in Euroland. I miss you.....

PS: Thank you sooooooo much for the new cam....many more pics to come in 2010!

Catching up......

2009-10-31T04:42:00.000-07:00

To get back to the future...below are a variety of pics and experiences from the the last 4 weeks......enjoy!
Biking:

(MC had a little fall)
Fetes:

..something new!

....and more to come!!!!! (First ski day of the 09/10 season tomorrow ;-)

Swaziland and South Africa: Holiday on the "wild" side..WOW!

2009-09-27T08:22:00.000-07:00

4 consecutive 60 hour work weeks almost canceled our holiday but we got lucky and were able to escape the "man" for 10 days and head to South Africa and Swaziland for a little relaxation, seeing friends, and exploring.

After an easy 10+ hour flight we arrived in Jo-berg where we proceeded to miss our flight and lose our bag...that was OK we'll just drive to Swaziland! (4 hours) (GGs first time driving on the "wrong" side of the road)
Our chariot:

I had some minor issues with using the wind shield wipers instead of the blinker.

Crossing the border out of SA into Swaziland:

Once on the Swazi side we finally arrived at Jason's and Fiona's...WOW!
The house:

(with gift pack in the room!)

The yard:

The views:

The river (friends included):

..and of course Jason, Fiona, and Alex:

As our bag was still lost KK and I borrowed some clothes and shoes and we headed off to a traditional dinner. Jason is like the mayor Swaziland...we knows everyone including the people at the airport that were tracking our lost bag (you will see later) He also knew the owner of the eatery and we got hooked up with great Swazi food.

Food was great, but Jason and I had to run early because we needed to check at the airport to see if the bag was there...no luck.

The next morning Jason hooked up a great breakfast on the poach.

The views:

The weather was perfect so we headed AGAIN to the airport to see if the bag was there.....no luck..so after a quick stop at Woolworths to get some shoes and sock (we were still in our work shoes) it was off to MTB in a reserve in Swaziland. I rented a bike and then it was off...this was our first encounter with animals in Africa. This place is one of the only places in Africa that you an bike in a reserve...very cool.

After biking (Thanks J for the tour!!!) and a nice cold beer we tried the airport again..the booming Manzini airport:

...and luckily this time it was there! Jasons friend Mr. C giving KK the long lost bag:

After getting the bag we both had bathing suits so we took a dip in the river and then had a nice BBQ on the poach.
The next day, sadly, we had to leave Swaziland. We packed up the car and headed to Kruger! The crew:

On the trip we stopped at a nice women's coop and bought some jewelry and hand made mats:

It was a very nice drive...but we were running late to get to our lodge for the afternoon game drive. Jason kicked it into top gear and we arrived at Rhino Walking Safaris with 1 minute to spare. Just like before Mayor Jason (now mayor of Kruger) knew the staff and chatted up everyone. The best thing about being later is that you get your own truck with guide...what a way to start the safari portion of our trip!! After many hugs to Alex, Fiona, and Jason (you guys are the BEST we miss you and hope to see you in CH soon) it was time to go see some critters as Jason would say:

First sighting:

Second:

..and more!!! (1st Elephant)

As this being our first time out on safari we didn't know what to expect but at sunset our guide found a nice spot to watch the sun set and Elephants bath...unreal! (He also brought us beer, wine, and snacks)

After the sun set we tracked animals at night with a big flashlight and saw our only Lion of the trip. So first night count: 2 (Lion and Elephant) of the Big 5 (Lion, Rhino, Elephant, Leopard, Buffalo). We arrived back at around 8ish and got escorted to our great room, changed, and went to dinner. Everything is included at RWS so we chowed down, met some other guest, and digested what we actually just saw.

So when your at RWS everything is taken care for you...this is full service. The schedule looks like this:
5:30 AM: Wake Up
6:00 AM: Coffee and Snack
6:30 AM: Game Drive either walking or driving
10:30 AM: Return from drive with buffet breakfast/brunch waiting for you
11:30 AM: Relax, read, nap, take a dip in the pool, watch the animals outside your door..etc.
3:30 PM: Afternoon Tea
4:00 PM: Game drive
8:00 PM: Return from Drive and go to a nice dinner
10:00 PM: Nightcap at bar:
11:00 PM: Sleep after a great day!

So at 6 in the morning we saw the lodge and room for the first time in the light...again WOW!

This AM it was off for our first walking safari with James and Mark (both very nice guys and great guides):

For the walking safari a group goes with a guide tracking the Big 5 in general. Of course we saw a ton of other animals too:

This day we found our Rhinos...a mother a calf:

#3 on the Big 5 list. After returning and a little Bfast we retired to our villa and chilled on the poach and watch the animals come right across the dry river bed in front of our place:

That evening our drive was to walk out into the bush and stay in a Swiss family Robinson set up. Mark and James were again guides and we got to the sleep spot:

This place was very cool....not ruffing it in any way. There was flush toilets, beer and wine, and great food.

Lamb and Sausage:

The next AM the sunrise was perfect!

..and we packed up a headed to look for more game..this time Buffalo (#4)!

Very cool..and on the way back for more Elephants:

After another great breakfast it was off again on a night game drive

...the best sunset yet! Our guide Mark:

WOW!

After sunset we went to a place to look at the stars and saw all the major formations in the southern sky.
The next AM was our last game drive so we were hoping to see a Leopard to complete the Big 5 and...we DID!

We also got out and did a walk to track some Lions,,,but we were a little to late :)

After a quick bite to eat we had to leave...but RWS was perfect! I wold reco this to anyone who is traveling to Kruger! Thanks Rhino!

After a 2 hour shuttle to Nespuit it was off to Cape Town!

Upon arrival in Cape Town we sorted a car and it was off to An African Villa. This place was a rec from 2 people at work.

The owners were wonderful and gave us a very nice room and insight on Cape Town. That night we hit a nice fusion resto and then grabbed a few beers on Long St. Overall Cape Town in a OK city but the outskirts are are just stunning. The next AM KK And I started by climbing Table mtn.

1:45 later we were at the top:

Unreal! After a little time at the top we grab the tram down and headed into town for a little shopping and eating.
Our ride back to the car:

They love Obama here too ;-)

That afternoon we tried to go to the cape of Good Hope, but rain stopped our plans...but we got some nice pics before and had a nice coffee and carrot cake in Kalk Bay:

That night we had a little fish for dinner and then stopped for a drink on Long St.
The next day we were off again this time down the coast...and more WOW moments. A little dip at Bikini beach:

More WOWs as we drove towards Hemanus:

KK even gave a run a the right hand drive:

Our $24 per day ride:

On the way we stopped and saw the Cape Penguins:

Lunch spot:

On reco we decided to hit the wine country and Franschhoek.

Plumwood Inn was the destination and who perfect!

That evening we watched the sunset at a great winery in the countryside and enjoyed our last day in SA.

That night KK and I had a great 5 course meal at on of the Top 50 eateries in the world...again WOW!
The next day we grabbed some breakfast and then had to grab our flight. We took our time back and saw a little more of the wine country. 3 flights later we were back in CH.
Overall this was a perfect vacation, really 3-in-1. After we came back and finished our 300 emails we reflected back and just said WOW! Thank you Jason and Fiona for the wonderful time in Swaziland (and help with planning)!! You guys rock! Hopefully we can repay you soon in CH. Also thanks to the staff at RWS, African Villa, and the Plumwood Inn and to the people of SA and Swaziland that made this vacation unforgettable.

PDS and Vogue Carouge v2

2009-08-30T10:25:00.001-07:00

I think we did the same thing last year :-) Another hellish 60+ hour week passed and KK and I got home at 8 on Friday. We decided that cooking was out of the question, so we headed into Carouge to the annual Vogue Carouge. We listed to come country music (yes there was line dancing) and had some Sardines Raclette, and wine. We were spanked so we headed home to get some rest around 10:40..we are getting old ;-)

On Saturday though I headed to Morzine to meet J for a little biking and KK did a little work, took a run, and got her hairs cut. Biking was perfect..as you can see!!
G:

J:

On the last run I almost exploded my tire (broke a spoke) so it was time to go. I arrived home and after a little bike work it was time to go and meet up with the GE crew at the Vogue which was a blast filled with dancing, cheese, beer, and sardines.
Mette and KK enjoying the music:

KK:

Paul getting photo lessons from the Portuguese musician:

Jammin!

A very cool night.
Now on Sunday KK continues to grind away for the "man" and I write this. Life continues to be great and I know daily we feel blessed to live this great life..DAILY! More to come next weekend!

Chill weekend in CH....v2

2009-08-30T10:19:00.000-07:00

After a hellish week at work, KK and I headed to Laussane to meet up with the crew to have a belated B-day celebration for Tom and Tam. KK and I headed to the Marche in the AM and then headed to LA to Jen and Jays. After a quick rendez-vous we headed over to the local wave pool and did a little swimming and then had a nice steak dinner with the crew. After dinner we went to J+Js and had some cake. (Thanks for the hospitality!)
On Sunday KK did some work and then we headed done to the lake for a nice after swim. Overall a very nice weekend with friends and chill time....and at the Marche I picked up some cucumbers to make my dad's famous bread and butter pickles..thanks dad for the recipe!

The finished goods!

Boyz VTT/DH Weekend

2009-08-30T09:57:00.001-07:00

So like last year J, Tom, and I headed to France for a little DH biking. This year we went to Tignes and Val D'Isere for a little biking. J and Tom arrived in GE Thursday night for an early AM leave to FR. We got up on Friday ready to rock and arrived in Tignes 2 hours later ready to bike...Tom was ready to rock!

G:

J:

...a GREAT day! That night we hit up some nice BBQ:

The next day started again with perfect weather and a nice b-fast:

..and it was on again.

After a few runs we headed to the glacier to do the 1000M run called Mr.Freeze. This was a mistake and we got a little lost....but got some great pics!

Tom rode the snow the best!

G on the glacier...where are we going???

After the adventure of Mr. Freeze we hit up a few more runs:

After riding all day we decided it was a good idea to do this!

After the water ramp expedition we grabbed some grub and drank a few beers.....one thing Tom didn't notice was that he had a concussion! Tom passed out and had to go take a ride to the hospital. Luckily he was OK and we grabbed him from the hospital in the AM and headed back to CH. As always and adventure with my friends. More to come- GG

WOW!!!!!! We really like Bordeaux

2009-08-17T10:34:00.000-07:00

After another 60+ hour week it was time for a little KK+GG adventure. KK and I had purchased tickets (pre-Mrs. Gieras..we had to change the ticket) on Easy Jet to explore another little place in Euroland. Friday night we headed to Bordeaux for a little getaway. We arrived at the airport, grabbed the car, and set off to Sauternes. Sauternes is a VERY little village about 45 minutes east of Bordeaux. We had made reservations at a very chill Chateau called Chateau D"Arches (one of the Grand Cru)..we learned a little more about wine this weekend). It was dark when we arrived but the next day we woke to a nice day and this!

KK checking the quality:

After a nice little view of the place and a great b-fast it was off to Bordeaux to check the town out:

After a little shopping and food we headed back to Sauternes to rent some bikes and hit up the wineries in the area.

The first one we hit was great! Perfect French style with a the owner showing us around (all in French) and letting us taste the nice wine:

After buying a bottle it was off!

It was a perfect day for a ride and on the way I even found some local berries: (Note the 8 Euro Lotto backpack..we needed to carry wine in something ;-)

We got a reco to check out Chateau Malle where we took a tour (in French)...not a great tour but a cool place:

After a stop in town we chilled and then got ready for a great dinner at the highly reco'd Auberge Les Vignes. (Actually one of the only places within 20KM of the Chateau.

Dinner was so perfect with nice wine and food...and great company.
On Sunday the weather was not that good, but we did a little more exploring and chilling. A quick flight hour flight back and we were in GE. Overall Bordeaux is very cool and we didn't even do 1/100 of the cool things in the area including going to the beach and climbing the largest dune in Europe...or horseback riding or kayaking...or......you get the picture.... KK and I will be back soon. As always more to come!

How time flys...catching up...AGAIN!

2009-08-17T10:12:00.000-07:00

So another Swiss National day weekend approached and VTT was back on. I took Friday off and Jay and I hit up PDS:

A nice day ripping Crozet and Champery. That night I headed back to GE to see my wonderful overworked wife.
The next day I headed back to bike with Jay while KK took a ride with Mette and Achilles!

No the helicopter was not for me..luckily...

...KK's day:

That night for National day KK and I met up again with Mette for a little fod and drink in Carouge....very cool vibe and I know the Swiss anthem ;-)

After some chow he headed into GE to the Fete De Geneve to meet up with the crew:

..and saw some killer fireworks:

On Sunday we chilled but it was off to Russia on Monday:

A very cool weekend..and I can't wait for another year in CH.
+ Note I have been here for 3 years now :-)

Back ...again..to the future...VTT in Crans

2009-07-29T11:28:00.000-07:00

So after a few days in Turkey I returned to GE and was ready after a week off to bike. Friday night KK and I had a nice dinner and then saw a movie (Bruno). On Saturday I woke up to meet Jay at Lavaux to head to Crans Montana. We arrived on a very cool, sunny day to meet up with two friends Marius and Chis from TGR....and it was on!

..and here is a vid from Jay summarizing a great day!

Crans Montana from Ripzalot on Vimeo.

That night we hooked up with Tam, Jen, Jay, and Jen's mom for a nice dinner in Laussane at Chez Harper. Great food, great friends, and a SICK wedding quilt.. Pics to come!..thanks Jen we love it!!!!!
On Sunday we took a nice 25 mile bike ride through GE and then grabbed some food at the Croix De Rozon Marche. Another great weekend. KK continues to work too much, but I know there is an end. This weekend more biking and then off to Bordeaux for a nice relaxed weekend. I am off to Russia on Monday. More to come........

Tour De France: Yverdon Les Bain

2009-07-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

So another weekend approached and rain was forecasted so KK and I chilled in GE Saturday and caught up on some much needed chill time after a hectic week at work. Sunday came and the weather looked good so we took the opportunity to see the TDF in CH! We grabbed a train to Yverdon Les Bain from GE and arrived to see the caravan setting up.

The caravan is a pre-race favorite with kids and adults alike where there are "floats" that drive around about an hour before the race and throw out free swag from the TDF sponsors.

..and we got some...

After the caravan passed we walked about a mile and found a slight incline so when the Peleton passed it would be more than 10 seconds...and here it comes!

There's Lance!!!

Bye Lance!

....that was cool! Next year more tailgating though.

After the race passed KK and I grab some lunch in the cute town center:

After lunch we headed back to GE and I grabbed my bag to head to Istanbul...more to come!

More biking....and a night with the girls...

2009-07-26T10:59:00.000-07:00

KK and I hit up a nice sushi dinner on Friday night after another stressful week. On Saturday I headed up to PDS with Jay for some more VTT.
Early AM start and Les Crozet:

GG:

Jay:

....another great day...and nice ride home:

That night I arrived home to find KK chilling with the Tamsters and poach with a few Coronas and some guacamole dip! ..and our wedding gift! It is perfect!!! Thanks Tom and Tam!

That night we met up with Mette and hit Carouge for some dinner and drinks.
Sunday KK and I chilled and then went to the pool in early evening for a nice dip.

..catching up...PDS and Montreux....

2009-07-26T10:50:00.000-07:00

Jay and I headed to PDS/Chatel to do some biking and watch the Redbull MTB comp. Marie a friend of Jays shot the day while we rode.

About 2 PM the rain came and the comp was called off..but Marie got some great shots!

Getting out of the rain:

That PM KK met me in Laussanne and we headed to Montreux to see Mos Def......to our dismay he cancelled last minute and Talib Kweli filled in which was not bad...the scene:

Even though Mos cancelled KK and I had a great time. On Sunday we took a nice bike ride to Croix de Rozon for the morning marche and then relexed.

Celebration #3...... Ticino, CH

2009-07-26T09:27:00.000-07:00

So after some great times in the CH (Lenzerheide) and the USU (Brooklyn and FL) KK and I arrange a nice celebration in CH with our Euro friends. The week started with a visit from Becks (KK friend: USA) and Wendy (Becks friend: USA). They stayed with us in GE until it was time to head off to Ticino. On Friday night we met up with Pedro (GG/KK friend: Portugal), Paul (GG/KK friend: UK), and Tanya (GG/KK friend: Russia) in Brig. That night we grabbed some grub and few beers in Brig before retiring for the night.

Saturday we work up and headed towards Bellinzona over the Simplon pass into IT and then back into CH.

We arrived in Bellinzona around 2ish and headed to the train station to get Amy (KK friend: USA), Krista (KK friend: USA), and A; (GG/KK friend: USA/CH). After a quick pick up we arrived at Montecarasso Telecabinein about 30c heat ready to get some food and see our digs for the next few days. We were staying at the Curzutt hostel which is 1 stop up the Telecabine. So after working in my best Italian I sorted the tickets and it was off!

So after a self serve 10 minute ride we unpacked the bucket...Al on the edge!

After a quick 5 minute walk we met Salvador and arranged the rooms. KK and I rented the whole place so it was like our private playground for the weekend with our friends.
Our cook and guide Salvador:

About 5 minutes after we got to the resort Salvador was ready to serve a great lunch!

...about 20 minutes into lunch Alex (KK friend: USA/UK) and Yuliana (KK/Alex friend: Russia) called from the bottom and headed to join the party.

The next call was from Jen (GG/KK friend: USA/CH), Tam (GG/KK friend: USA/CH), Jay, (GG/KK friend: USA/CH) and Tom (GG/KK friend: USA/CH). ...and they were ready to party!

After a little food (I actually mean enough to feed a small army) we decided to take a walk to the nearby mountain church. Salvador gave us the key and we were off:

After a nice hike we came back to the hostel and chilled, relaxed, and enjoyed the local wine!

...by the time we knew it...food was arriving again! The dinner started with a Lasagna and then some nice sauted beef and potatoes.
Our dinning room:

Course 1:

Course 2:

..the crew!

...dining room dusk:

..a few speaches....

..and lots of wine!...dining room sunset:

..and some local schnapps:

..and some dancing:

...and some zipline (a fan favorite):

(Mom and we burned the wreathe):

...and a little late night Telecabine.....(so I forgot to tell you this is a 24 hour Telecabine)

KK and I retired early but the "kids" stayed up lat and partied the night away until about 4.

The next day after a nice b-fast we headed to the top for a little hike and lunch. Waiting for the bucket:

...chilling on the hike:

top view:

Juri (the MAN of Curzutt) set us up with a nice lunch of Polenta and Beef at the top cafe:

Juri met us up a the top to say hello and share a beer with us. Thank you again Juri..the place and arrangements were PERFECT!

After another great meal we hike back down to Curzutt about 800M.

..on the way we ran into a the mountain horses...looks like life is tough in CH!

...and on upon arrival we had some other guest:

After a nice nap we had a few beer and then dinner was served...these Swiss sure know how to do it!!
Course 1:

Course 2:

Dinner was great and then we danced and had a blast on a beautiful June evening in TI!

Noice!

the night ended with some stargazing (I saw two shooting stars).
The next AM the crew was a little worse for wear but it was time to go home. We left Curzutt around 1 and headed back to GE. We dropped some people off at the train stations and then over the Nufenen Pass back to GE.

On the way we grabbed some sandwiches and had a picnic.

KK and I arrived home that night around 630 talking about the next time we can throw a party in Curzutt. Thanks to all the friends who came out from around the world.

A look back....

2009-07-14T10:21:00.000-07:00

So for some reason I remembered that it had been almost 3 years since I have been here...crazy how time goes by so quickly. I looked back at some of the post from 3 years before (over there you can link>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>)
and I am so stoked that i kept a record of my life, feelings, and moments in time...but some things don't change. I was looking at a post and read this "I just want to thank my parents for the love and support that they give me everyday. I wouldn't be here to enjoy all of this without them" ....thanks again Mom and Dad...I couldn't have done it without you....I miss and love you. I look forward to seeing you soon.

Jan 19th, 2007: Chamonix, FR

Home GE.....I cannot complain

2009-07-14T10:10:00.000-07:00

The summer is here and the other night the sky filled with amazing colors.....we continued to be be very blessed!

PDS bike adventure....and Fete De La Musique, GE

2009-07-13T11:12:00.000-07:00

So DH continues to rock and Jay and I hit up Les Get on a great day for biking:

We hit up both sides of LG and had a nice lunch up top...and then it was back to DH!!!
GG:

After a nice day of DH we met up with Tom, Tam, and KK to hit up the Fete De La Musique in Carouge and GE. We had some BBQ before the Fete and then headed downtown to see some music.

On Sunday we recovered from the night and chilled with T+T.
Another cool weekend in GE.

Local Produce!!

2009-06-15T11:14:00.001-07:00

So KK and I have been growing some produce. We currently have some lettuce, tomatoes, mint, parsley, chives, and basil. A nice setup too on the back porch:

..and with the cherry tree in front we have even produced some local jam!!

Viola!!! The finished good.

So next time your at Chez KK and GG ask for local produce :-)

DH. Annecy, and hot weather.....

2009-06-15T10:58:00.000-07:00

The mercury continued to rise and the summer season was in full swing. On Friday night we hit up a few drinks and chilled in Geneva with Paul, T, Pedro, and Rob.

On Saturday I woke up early to go biking with Tom and Jay at Crans Montana which is in the canton of the Valias in CH. After an early morning rendevous we hit the lift at about 9:30.

So we arrived at the top with no real clue where to go (first time there) and we started to search....luckily we ran into Perta a local from Thun who should us the way..all day (Thanks!!!!):

The day was killer with few crowds and great trails conditions...the lift ticket was only 15CHF too!!!
Ripz enjoying the day!

Tom too!

...and I really did!

WOOOHOOO!!! it was a perfect day and to end it all I met up with KK and we hit a friends BBQ Saturday night with great food and beer.

Sunday we woke up and headed to Annecy to escape the 32C heat.

We grab some sandwiches and the paper and relaxed on the East side of the lake.

Sunday night we relaxed and had a nice dinner on the porch. A great weekend overall!! We continued to be very blessed. More to come this weekend as always.

Chill weekend in CH....

2009-06-15T10:51:00.000-07:00

So the weekend started and we checked out some "Fetes" locally in Grand Lancy. This was a small affair with some cool bands and good music. KK and I headed down on both Friday and Saturday night. We really like these guys who light up the stage with cool DJing and sweet fiddles.

The rest of the weekend we relaxed and sorted the house....you should see the pantry now! :-)

Back to the Future....LAST WEEKEND!

2009-06-04T10:21:00.000-07:00

So after the trip to Poland if was off to bike in CH. Saturday we headed to Chaumont for a little DH with Jay and Tom. The day was perfect..weather..

..friends...

...new courses...

..and our new guide David from bikeattitude.net......

WOOOHOOOO!!! DH season in full effect. That night KK and I had a great dinner at Cafe Universal and enjoyed the nice Spring evening. The next day I headed up with Tom to Metabief for another morning of DH......

WOOHOOOOO....again...I arrived back in GE to chill with KK down by the lake which was a perfect way to end the day.
Monday was a holiday so KK and I headed for a tour around the Saleve for the Tour Du Saleve There are no pictures..but KK kicked my butt!
Another memorable weekend in CH! As always more to come.

Back to the mother land....another new country: Poland

2009-06-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe this was my first time to Poland..but I will return! It was a very short business trip but I wanted to document the first time I went. Flight LOT!!

Warsaw:

Dinner Place:

Overall I really like Warsaw. Cheap, cool people, and a very local feel. I hope to return with KK soon.

WE LOVE ITALY!!!!

2009-06-03T10:55:00.000-07:00

So the long weekend was coming and KK and I were off to IT for a little R and R. We left Wednesday night to Torino. The drive was sick with great views!

After a long ride we arrived at are very cool hotel.

That day we chilled in Torino and went to a cool market that might come to the US:

This place is killer with places to eat in each section and great food all around. That afternoon we shopped and kicked it.

That evening we headed to the cost and a place in the pre-alp called Casina Il Poggio
..WOW!!!! This was our place!

..and the porch!

No one speaks English here but that was cool with us! After a great dinner we retired to our cool pad and got ready for a bike ride in the AM.
The next day we got up and headed for a ride from Finale Ligure to Imperia. KK reliving here college days ;-)

After a nice ride on the coast we grabbed some lunch and the chilled in the sun at the beach!

After a quick ride back on the train...

...and a little drive we arrived back as the casa for find this!

Spectacular!
The next AM was a repeat in terms of weather and after a nice B-fast we relaxed on the terrance. On the way out of town we stopped in Alessia and enjoyed the beach and local fare.
Fresh!!

It was a great time at the beachside but it was time to head towards home..so back to Torino to stay at another cool place....with my man Silvio!

Sivio and his family run a nice place on the outskirts of Torino....very cool! We chilled at the pool, ate great food and just chilled. The place

The next AM we broke out early to beat the traffic at the MB tunnel..but still hit some:

We got home rested, relaxed, and ready to go back to IT. These 4 days were one of the best in IT. We got to see local culture, learn a little Italian, and saw a ton of new places. WE LOVE IT!

PS: For the location of these places drop me an email anytime...we also have some cool beach spots too :-)

Tour du Lac 2009!

2009-06-03T10:09:00.000-07:00

Like last year we planned on meeting the Leysin crew in Lausanne and then head to GE. Tom and Tam both jined the tour again this season. We headed up early in the AM and chilled on the waterfront before heading to meet the Tour:

After a coffee it was off to meet the Tour. We had about 25 this year:

..and then it was off!

The views on the tour rock!

The first stop which was new this year was at a Boce center for a few beers and Boce:

...off again!

The next stop was on the Tour last year...our favorite Cave:

Lunch!!!

...next stop GE:

That night Tom and Tam chilled at ours and we had a little din and drinks!

After a sleepy night KK had a meet the next AM..and she rocked!!!

..after the meet Tom and I headed to Metabief to meet up with Jay:

Beer30!

WOOHOOO Summer is here!!!

BBQ and Bike!

2009-06-03T09:59:00.000-07:00

As the weather turned to long sunny days it was time to dust off the bike and get the BBQ fired up! Friday nigh we had the GE crew over for some good Ole US ribs and corn!

The next day if was ON for DH season. I met up with Jay and Tom at Metabief for a little DH! Unlike last season Gregor stayed in one piece :-)

A great start to the season!

Year End Count!

2009-06-03T09:50:00.000-07:00

So this season was the best one yet. The count was down but quality was up!
Total Days: 35
Total Pow Days: 25!!!!!!!!
New Areas: 10
Pitzol, CH
Champex Lac, CH
Vicheres, CH
Verecorin, CH
La Fouly, CH
Gressoney, IT
La Dole, CH
St Cergue, CH
SSB, CH
Lenzerheide, CH
New Pairs of skis: 3 (2 GG, 1 KK)
We were truly blessed this season....and continue to be daily!

Back in CH!

2009-06-03T09:43:00.000-07:00

So after a very memorable trip to the US is was back for a little ski at G3 which ended up to be the final day of the year. Tom and Jay joined in day....see you next year G3!

EXTREME! ;-)

Extreme chillin:

The next day KK and I headed for little ride in the country side:

Spring in bloom:

Another great weekend and with the weather turning......bike season is ON!!!

Private Post: FL

2009-05-18T10:38:00.000-07:00

.......thanks for the great time in FL......see you soon!

..and the surfing too Dave!

Private Post: NYC

2009-05-18T10:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all the friends and family for making this a very special occasion...we miss and love you!

Private Post: CH

2009-05-18T10:35:00.001-07:00

So friends and family know the story..but to keep a little privacy in my life the following 2 posts are edited. Here is a glimpse into our lives....together!

NOTE: If you want pics email me and I will send you the links.....Love, GG

Miss a day so post two....the skiing continues..

2009-05-14T10:15:00.000-07:00

So after a nice sunny day at SSB the weather turned for the worse and...yes the dreaded R word came..that was okay..we scralped it anyway :-) Ripz, Tom, Chris, and me headed to La Foulay to see if we could escape the rain..but no luck :-(

The girls were smart and headed to Sion for some shopping but we hit up the mushy slopes!

I think at about 2 we called it quits and headed to the bar...wet!

That night we all stayed in Sion and went to a great dinner.

The next day was not much better and we headed back up to the SSB areas and hit Vicheres....the same scene with a little less "R":

GG going head over heals for the worst bail of the season:

Tom catching a little air:

The girls making the most of foggy day:

Overall a cool weekend..even with the rain. We all enjoyed each other company and the country we are lucky to live in!

Additional SSB pic of GG:

The return of SSB......

2009-05-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

So after our first adventure earlier in the year the conditions came together for a nice sunny rip at SSB. Jay, KK, myself and the infamous Swede Peter K arrived on a sunny Friday to scralp the gnar!

The snow was not the greatest and the sun was making for some sticky spots.....but we had a great time enjoying CH!

..and with views like this who won't???

...another day in the books of a great season!

Catching up! Happy B-Day KK!

2009-05-11T09:44:00.000-07:00

So now I am almost 2 months behind on my posting...but I promise to now post a min of once a day until I get caught up!

Friday we headed to Amsterdam to celebrate KKs b-day. I surprised KK with a little gift of a trip to a very cool city. This was my second time there but it was KKs first. We arrived in the evening and grabed a cab to our cool hotel in the center of town. After a quick wash up we headed to a few outdoor cafes to have a beer or two.

The next day we wok up to a nice day and started to explore the city:

Hotel view:

Exploring:

B-day girl:

After a very full day of walking and shopping we chilled at a cool, traditional cafe in the outskirts if town.
The next day we did a little walking and eating and it was time to head back to GE. 3 hours later back home but wanting to go back for a longer trip. KK and I had a great time and if you get this direction get to Amsterdam!