Eric,
Well.. We aren't sure what we will have in that first 2 weeks. Current forecasts show more precip coming in next week, so we hope that equates to mtn snow! Kind of an odd year. By Jan there should be plenty to hit.. as long as we don't get something warm then an arctic cold which happens in these areas.
That said.. when you get here and seen the weather, there will be a bit more touring info coming out. Right now everyone is anxious.. so all we can do is talk about gear! Ha
I'm sure there will be people that will won't to get out. Glad you have the basics.. If there is no snow.. Maybe check and see if there are any avy awareness classes to take.
There is one while you're here:
AIARE Avalanche Awareness
Dates: December 9 2014 7-8:30pm
Location: REI Spokane, WA
Cost:
Free, Registration Required
http://www.rei.com/event/43592/session/102655
Also see the bottom of Sticky Post "Local AIARE Avalanche Courses"