1.11.19. Solo, Fletcher Peak, Double Bristlecone Peak and Raintree hug. 7.3 miles, 2,500’ gain. I was going to scramble today but my arm hurt from the flu shot so I thought I’d test some boots I had in the garage to see if they would keep my feet warm. I thought it would be a short outting but it turned into an epic newbie Winter Mountaineering Day! I feel like a champion! I was able to do most of the route with boots and spikes because I broke the trail Tues. but a half mile before Fletcher, I dropped to my waist in snow while following cross country skiing tracks. I slapped on my bedroom slipper snowshoes and charged to the top through huge snow drifts. The ski tracks disappeared so I followed animal tracks which were very good. They avoid the deep snow. I’m the 1st one to sign in in 2019! Super proud. I’m coming for all these Kyle Canyon peaks this winter! Then I’m getting my fav! Charleston! I’m coming for you! I learned a lot about the snow this week. I feel more hopeful about my goal.