A Cold Beginning

Going into the first event of the year, I was honestly a bit nervous. The drive from Colorado to Idaho in winter is always a gamble, and I hate going through Wyoming for reasons we don't speak of. Between the 2-3 mountain passes and the potential for heaps of snow, it's never a casual drive, but thankfully (or not depending on who you ask), the weather was mild and there was very little snow.

Idaho events are always different for me. Partly because I want to move back, and partly because I get to visit pDad (who doesn't love free food and housing while getting paid to work an event?) So when this event was created, I knew I wanted to do it.

I like to tell people I have amazing luck when it doesn't matter, and terrible luck when it does. And unfortunately that reared its head on this trip. When I stopped in Grand Junction for some food and a slight break, I checked my email- something I almost didn't do. Good thing I did- My hotel in Salt Lake City had cancelled my reservation. No phone call, no warning, just an overbooking notice and a "good luck". After scrambling to find another hotel that wasn't charging $400-700 for a random winter Wednesday night, I secured one and got back on the road.

After arriving in SLC after what seemed like an eternity (I hate this drive because of the endless road construction), I checked into my hotel, only to find out that this hotel had ALSO cancelled my reservation. Exhausted and worn out, they ended up getting me a different reservation at a "sister hotel" nearby. It wasn't quite as nice, it was mid-remodel and mid-ownership change, and there was almost no indication it was even functioning as a hotel. I think I was the only guest that night. But honestly, after the exhausting 9 hour drive turned to 11, I was ready to pass out. I later found out they had comped my stay, so small victories I suppose! The next day I finished the drive to pDad's where I was treated to some delicious food (free food is the best!)

Setting up on Friday was significantly colder than Colorado- Idaho was around 30F whereas Colorado was hovering at a suspiciously comfortable 60-70F this entire winter. It was cold enough my tire pressure light came on and I briefly thought I popped a tire. My uncle came down to visit and helped me setup. While I can setup on my own, I won't lie- the extra help is nice, and I truly appreciate any help I can get.

Day one of SKAL was slow and cold. The day hovered around 20-25F with a brisk wind that tried to go straight through you. I was wearing lots of layers so I wasn't cold... Or so I'd like to say. I didn't have a portable heater and I didn't even consider the fact my toes would get insanely frozen inside my boots. Rookie mistake.

I was right across from the fire pit which was nice. Despite the temperature, everyone was in high spirits, and for a first year event, the energy was SOLID. People were curious, having fun, and walking around.

Sunday surprised me more than I expected. It picked up significantly- which I find is unusual depending on the event. I think since it was a first year event, not many people realized it was going on the first day, and the second day was even better. I have no doubt that 2027 will be even better than this year since more people will know about it (first year events are always rough). It was colder, but everyone was in good spirits, and it was an amazing time. I remembered hand warmers this time around which was a lifesaver (won't be making that mistake again)

I didn't know what to expect- winter, first year, freezing temperatures. But I was pleasantly surprised. Not record breaking, but definitely not disastrous. First year events are always a gamble, even when they're part of an offshoot of bigger events, but this definitely exceeded my cautious expectations.

pDad and my uncle visited me both days, and helped me both setup and take down my booth. I truly do appreciate the company more than they'll ever know. pDad did what pDad does best (talking to guests, telling stories and jokes), and my uncle tagged along for support (I know it's not exactly his thing, so the support means more than I'll admit).

It was great seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones. I even got my first ever fan photo (that's me on the right!), which made my heart warm and happy. For a first year winter event, SKAL felt strong and promising. If this is what year one looks like, I have no doubt 2027 will be even better. And maybe by then, the drive won't be quite so long. If all goes according to plan, I'll be a little closer to home.