, then ascend the powdery snowdrifts that flank the trail in search of my missing equipment. Upon attaining the altitude of my missing pole, I re-enter the steep slope. Digging into the snow with my boots while stabilizing my body with the uninjured arm, I inch across the hill, lose my foothold, and plummet downward. Repeating this process for the second time, I succeed in grasping the pole. After fastening skis to boots, I begin the multi-mile journey to the ski lodge. My mother meets me and learns of my adventure, I observe a reflection of my pain in her face. We pack the car and inquire concerning the location of a clinic. On the way to the emergency room I yearn for sleep. While the nurse wraps my arm in fiberglass casting material, I anticipate next years' adventure....
