First Run

Last week we went skiing for the first time, which in the grand scheme of things isn't that remarkable, but it is interesting when you realize that the ski hills have been open for a few weeks, and had we been motivated, we could have gone. It's just that the temps were locked in at about 10-20 degrees below zero, and when it's that cold, it's just not that much fun skiing, especially when you spend half your time sitting on the chair lift. At times it is potentially dangerous, though that's a being a bit hysterical.

Either way, once December ended, temps rose to a balmy 20 degrees, and last week we went skiing for the first time. The conditions were excellent, the cold weather coupled with a couple of big storms meant the snow was in good shape, and the warmer temps meant a good time was had by all. Unfortunately A could not join us because of her amazingly busy social and academic calendar, but N and I got to go.

I was a little pensive the first time down the hill, I always am, but once the first run is out of the way, we had a great time. N is once again doing the junior instructor program at the hill, it was something he wanted to do, so who am I to stop him? Actually, I'm well within my rights, but if he's keen on doing it, I'm completely supportive.

What's crazy is that the day after we skied excellent conditions, a big storm rolled in that brought warm temps in the 50s and tons of rain. There was extensive flooding and all that beautiful snow took a terrible beating. Then, in typical New England fashion, the temps dropped back down to below zero, and it all turned to ice. What a bummer. Our driveway was like an ice rink, and the ski hills really suffered. By extension, so too did the skiers.

For all it's worth, we aren't skiing as much this year, or at least that's how it seems. Things will probably change later in the season, especially now that we've got our feet wet, but for now, the awful conditions are putting a huge damper on our spirits. Plus, if we get a storm or two until the next time we ski, we'll once again be in good shape. We'll keep our fingers crossed.

-->

Until then, thanks for reading, and thanks to SkiStar for the pic.