An Ode to Hot Chocolate
Skiing is a sport that is rich in both history and tradition. It's been around since 6000 BC, when humans in Northern Russia would cross wintery wetlands and marshes using skis. Since then, skiers and riders have slowly but surely built an entire industry and culture around this beautiful sport. Despite the ancient history of skiing, there are certain aspects of modern-day ski culture that are seemingly set in stone. One simple, yet significant cultural keystone is the presence of hot chocolate at ski resorts.
To skiers and riders, hot chocolate breaks can mean very different things - a post-run snack, a cold-day comfort, or even a positive reinforcement parenting technique. This delicious beverage can bring comfort on the most frigid of ski days.
Skiers and riders enjoy the mountain for different reasons. Some people like the challenge of moguls, some people like the meditative quality of cruising down fresh corduroy, and others like the thrill of terrain parks. Just as everyone has their own way of enjoying skiing or riding, everyone has their own way of enjoying hot chocolate.
Some shredders enjoy all elements of skiing and riding - it all depends on the day and their mood. Some days they'll feel frisky hit the terrain park. Some days they'll feel unfettered and sail down fresh cords. And other days they'll feel introspective, spending all their time among the trees. Just as some people like variety in their skiing, some people like variety in their hot chocolate. After all, variety is the spice of life. Some folks like to crumble peanut butter cookies into their hot chocolate, creating a cookies-n-cream flavor with peanut butter undertones. Some folks like to add chocolate sprinkles, both before AND after adding a dollop of whipped cream. Others go a simpler route. Adding a dash of Cayenne Pepper creates a sweet-n-spicy delight. Dropping a peppermint into your hot chocolate is another way to jazz up your basic beverage. Plus - who can't resist a thin mint?
When it comes to skiing, the early bird ALWAYS gets the worm. Whether you're hunting for fresh corduroy or untouched powder, you'll find more luck with an earlier start. If you ever find yourself partaking in the daily sprint for First Chair, you may come across a special type of hot chocolate - half coffee, half hot chocolate. This beverage is celebrated among skinners and early-morning shredders as the perfect slopeside cup of joe. Skiers and riders can enjoy cozy caffeination whilst patiently awaiting the morning bell at White Peaks.
Have you ever considered the emotional sensation of coziness? Sure, we all know what cozy means. The Schwendi Hutte is cozy. The fireplaces in the Base Lodge are cozy. But have you ever really analyzed the emotional elements that come with feeling cozy? There's an overwhelming feeling of safety, a deep satisfaction for life, and a distinct warmth in your heart. After a bitter and blustery day on the mountain, there are very few things that will bring you coziness faster than a cup of plain old hot cocoa. Think about it. The cup warms your trembling, pale hands. The steam clears out your frozen sinuses. Something about the rich, creamy flavor brings you back to your childhood. You feel safe, tucked away from the cold and the wind, seemingly regaining life, all thanks to the comfort of this deliciously warm beverage. It's true - the coziness of hot chocolate is undeniable.
Sometimes, hot chocolate isn't enough to take the edge off. Life throws a curve ball, and you need something a little stronger. Those looking to add a little kick to their cozy will certainly enjoy a hot chocolate with Bailey's. Simply stir in a shot (or two) of Bailey's Irish Cream into your hot chocolate and voila - you're ready to enjoy a strong mid-morning libation!
P.S. Think Snow!