Cross Country Skiing in the Moonlight
Living in Wyoming it’s tough to get moving in the winter. However, several years ago I decided that since I love the outdoors so much, I best embrace Wyoming’s type of sports. I started with down-hill skiing. I took the kids and we’ve had many a fun day at the slopes. While the kids are now better than I am, I still enjoy a day skiing and being heckled by them. My favorite days are when the Wyoming skies are beautifully blue and fresh snow has recently fallen. The snow glistens on the slopes against a blazing sun, and all I need to have a great day are my snow pants and my ipod. It’s clear, crisp, and simply stunning.
Recently I took up cross country skiing. I heard its “good exercise.” Ruben bought me a great pair of skis for Christmas, and I’ve been out and skiing ever since. (We have a place close by our house that’s called Chimney Park, where folks cross country ski.) It’s hard. There’s no speed, and you need to find your rhythm to keep going. But, once one figures out the motion, it’s fairly easy to move along. And I like the repetition of the action, it’s almost zen-like.
Accidentally, this last Saturday I was out at Chimney Park later than I expected and ended up skiing in the moonlight. I was in awe of the perspective and the shadows the trees cast on the snow. It was quiet and eerie, with the only sounds being my skis sliding against the snow and my breathe matching the rhythm of my movements. I thought clearly.
I’ve had some wonderful experiences in my life. This was definitely one of the best! Next time, I’m planning this and dragging Ruben along. That was the only thing missing!
Discussion Area - Leave a Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.