For the past few weeks, I’ve been questioning why I live in the Northeast. Snow days are not what they used to be when I was a kid growing up in Massachusetts. I have fond memories of the Blizzard of ’78 (I know, I’m dating myself) where we missed at least 2 weeks of school!
Now, when school is cancelled hours before the first flake falls, I cringe. Running outside will be treacherous, biking outside…forget about it! And getting myself to the pool is an emotional challenge as I’m so cold just driving to the pool.
Before the last storm, or what they were calling, the Blizzard of 2015, I decided I needed a shift in my attitude. I could hole up in my house and hibernate or I could figure out a way to make the snow my friend.
This was my route today at Winding Trails. Look closely. Doesn’t it look like a face, facing right, with a scarf and hat? So perfect!
I headed over to REI and impulsively purchased new cross country skis, poles and boots. I did it quickly before I changed my mind. The boots were very comfortable (much more than downhill ski boots) and the skis were so light and easy to maneuver. I am not a novice cross country skier, but it has been at least a decade since I’ve ventured out.
For the past week I’ve been out a few times and I’m having a blast. I can pretty much ski anywhere (unlike downhill skiing) and it’s immediately an aerobic workout.
I encourage you to head out this winter and make friends with the snow. Grab your boots and snow pants and just trudge through your neighborhood. If you’re feeling ambitious, get some snowshoes, cross country skis or sleds and enjoy the fresh air of the outdoors. You can rent skis at Winding Trails in Farmington, CT and enjoy the 20 kilometers of groomed trails!
Who knows? You might find yourself wishing there were 6 more weeks of winter instead of counting the days until spring!