Chicopee

I've wanted to try downhill skiing since my university days, but it never came together. So I was excited to finally have the opportunity to try it out yesterday at the Chicopee Ski Club with my friend Jessica and her family. I signed up for the $59 "Discover Skiing" package which came with a one hour group lesson, equipment rental, a beginner's ski lift pass and even a $5 food voucher for any purchase over $7.50. I got more than my money's worth cuz I ended up getting a private session with Glenn, who was an amazingly patient and encouraging ski instructor. The conditions were ideal, the weather was not too cold and it was not too sunny, but I found the speed of the sport too fast, even on the bunny hill. Next winter I'll probably try out cross-country skiing or snowshoeing instead.

Here's a new poem I wrote this morning commemorating the trip:

Chicopee

Observing the skiers gliding gracefully down the hill
was quite different from actually strapping on skis
and attemping to slide down the slope.

Although I was moving at a snail's pace comparatively,
the speed was too fast for me.
My whole body tense, my legs burning,
I was glad when the lesson was over.

Instead of going up the hill again,
I chose to trade the skis in for my hiking boots,
and enjoyed a leisurely walk observing all the activity around.

So what if I'll always be a slowpoke?
It's a wonderous feeling to not be in a hurry
and stay in the moment,
content to watch the world go by
while I take in all its beauty.