Last run at the rustic ski hut Sugar Pine (Pinus lambertiana) before it finally blew down in a big east wind event. It used to groan and creak during gusts, when I was hanging inside it out of the storm, skiing here from home. I’m not too surprised, just glad it took the kind of wind storm I never would have been up here in. Still it gives one pause. It’s not apparent in this shot, but it was leaning precipitously uphill towards the camera, defying gravity. It was also bigger than it looks, probably six feet in diameter. I could duck inside with my dog and be cozy, chilling on dry duff inside the mighty bole, even when there was a few feet of snow on the ground. This special tree offered respite when I needed it. Plus it was good company, feigning amusement at my skiing and singing antics, and I miss hanging here. see post for 11/20/2010