So That's What They Mean By "Off"-Season

One of the perks of my job (besides free internet access and a climate-controlled cube set to 'glacial') is that I occasionally get to work on cool projects for cool clients.  This is relatively rare--I've spent most of the year trying to sell supplemental insurance and high-yield corporate notes--but when someone says, "Hey CroutonBoy, we need your help with a Colorado ski resort chain...are you interested?" the hardest part is not giving the messenger an open-mouth kiss.

So last week I flew out to Colorado to meet the client, pitch their internet-strategy, and generally look handsome and smart.  It just so happens that I also happened to know the client from waaay back in a former life, and she pulled some strings and set me and Oodgie up with a weekend at a fancy new resort they just opened.  You know, to do some research.

Now, before everyone gets jealous (and you should be) you should note the date.  Despite the presence of several feet of fresh powder the resorts themselves have closed for the season.  This wasn't necessarily a bad thing, as it saved Oodgie the embarrassment of watching me learn to snowboard.  But it did mean that things were...quiet.

How quiet?  This quiet.

We had our run of the place.  No annoying crowds.  Incredible sales on winter gear and ski supplies.  The undivided attention of the resort staff.

Shuttered shops and restaurants.  Tour companies who don't return phone calls.  Empty hallways.  Tumbleweeds.  Literally.

I couldn't shake the feeling that it was chapter 7 of The Stand and Randall Flagg would come strutting around the corner.

But the deafening silence actually helped us relax, and in the end it was great to get away for a luxurious romantic weekend on the cheap.  I managed to avoid the internet for a few days, and it felt like we were gone for much longer than we actually were.  Can't complain about that.

But now I'm back.  I'm certain there'll be plenty to complain about soon.  Stay tuned.

Comments

[Jonathon]

Sometimes having a job is AWESOME.

[misfithausfrau]

That sounds like a fantastic weekend. I am pretty sure we will NOT experience the same sort of quiet and be able to have the 'run of the place" when we spend next weekend in NYC. Just a hunch. I won't complain though!

[Bill Beck]

At this point I haven't heard silence in so long I think if I were to ever experience it I'd probably be convinced I had gone deaf instantly.

[Backpacking Dad]

Just finished "The Stand" for the 4th time and you had to go and creep me out.

Never going to Colorado...

[heather]

Loved the Randall Flagg reference. Oh and where can one get the Han Solo Frdge? =D

[MadWomanMeg]

Um yeah. That sounds like Heaven to me. Is there some reason that the rest of us were not invited along for this cheap, yet mysteriously romantic tumbleweed mini vacation? I promise I'm good company.

[the weirdgirl]

I'm jealous. That sounds really nice.