The sparkling rays of the sunshine seep through my eyeglasses.
The snow dribbles down my dark blue North Face jacket as I mentally prepare myself for what is about to come next. I firmly buckle my boots to the skis and smile from ear to ear. I know I’m about to embark on an exciting decent and nothing or no one can stop me.
My poles attack the snow as I push myself to the edge of Mt. Rainier. After one solid push, I’m off. Flying through the powder snow only leaves me wishing for more. I wish the mountain could be taller so I could have at least five more seconds of breaching the unpaved snow.
Large trees stand ominously in front of me as I weave through the snow. A ditch awaits me to my left but I dodge it with ease. As I observe an oncoming tree situated in front of me, I decide to swerve to the right of it.
As I swerve around the tree, a thought comes to mind. I am a running back. I am dodging would-be tacklers in an effort to enjoy the heck out of this sunny December day.
Unfortunately, I have not had this feeling of exuberance through skiing in three years. I have not had to dodge any trees for three years. Most importantly, I haven’t seen the sun rise when I arrive at Crystal Mountain Resort early in the morning.
My life isn’t complete without these. I need them back.
Now.
I have not escaped the stresses of life for a while and skiing would alleviate some pressure. Winter hasn’t graced Washington with its presence since late February and it cannot come any sooner.
I am ready to strap up my boots once again and feel the packed snow rubbing against my skis.
I am determined to hit the slopes this winter. I have not touched snow in over seven months and my fingers are itching for some frozen water. The winter not only brings about my favorite time of year, the holidays, but it also means the snow resorts will open up.
The winter is almost here and I am ready to welcome it with opening arms.
