Colorado girl

as I stood at the top of the mountain drinking in the snow-capped peaks, I grinned. a Cheshire Cat grin. my friend's boyfriend told me I should take a few runs, he would stay with her. I told him as long as there are boards on my feet and snow beneath those boards, I'm happy.

besides, who could not be happy on a day like that. beautiful spring-like weather in February. brilliant blue skies. soft snow. five fabulous days of nothing but skiing and relaxing in the company of great friends.

my friend and her boyfriend have flown in every year for the past three for our annual ski trip. the first year, she was hesitant. she'd never skied before. I insisted I'd teach her, and she'd love it.

starting with spring breaks in college, I've been importing my friends for ski trips nearly every year. many of my best friends from school have come out to ski with me. some to take "lessons". I've taught two of my college roommates, and various other friends. all have loved it.

I feel lucky to be able to share my favorite winter activity with my friends. thinking back over the years, I truly am amazed that I've been able to talk nearly every one of my best friends from school into making turns with me. even more amazing given many had never skied before. some had never even seen "real" mountains.

my friend T moved to Denver with her husband and learned to ski the same trip as our friend who flew out this past weekend. she told me a while back that after moving here, she finally gets me. between my ski habit and my love of summer outdoor concerts, she understands my need to be outside. my need to bask in the sunshine under blue skies. why I belong in Colorado.