New Year's on the Slopes

I am terrified of skiing. The thought of having two slippery devices strapped to my feet while sliding down a mountain makes my stomach turn. This year I sucked it up, faced my fear and enjoyed a few days up at Mount Washington with the Gulbrandsen clan. Just the 12 of us celebrated the New Year by skiing, reading books and soaking in the cabin's hot tub. The perfect way to ring in 2009!

As I mentioned previously, skiing is not the way I usually like to spend my winters. It all stems back to my first ski experience when I became stuck on a difficult run and needed to ride down the mountain on the gondola. Needless to say, it was excruciatingly embarrassing as a 13 year old-especially as my 8th grade classmates snickered and waved as I floated by. This time around, armed with the support of my ever-patient husband, I took to the slopes with only a few minor bumps and bruises. My brother in-law Eric also had some apprehension before taking the icy plunge but he proved to be a skilled, speed skier in a matter of minutes. I was jealous when he quickly surpassed my beginner status. Isn't it silly how we can let little fears and hang ups ruin what potentially can be an exhilarating ride? That is going to be my resolution for 2009-
to live without fear. "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you." Isaiah 41:10.