Yesterday was a landmark day for our family: the first time we went downhill skiing together! Our 12yo went skiing (somewhat reluctantly, it seemed) with his school last week, came home glowing, wanting to go again! So we did. I wondered / doubted / questioned whether I’d be up for it, and to be honest, I was not feeling well in the morning, but (buoyed up by my recent skating experience) we went!

I didn’t ski very many runs, all beginner, and all involving snowplowing with the kids, but it felt so good to be out in the fresh air and be moving. I loved gliding down the slopes, enjoying the scenery, and feeling the freedom. Exhilarating!! I am so grateful for that shared experience as a family. I’m also amazed at how well my kids all did their first / second time on the slopes. What fun to watch them go! I got to have some “deep and meaningful” conversations with my boys on the lift, which I’m quite confident were worth much more than the cost of the lift tickets!

I ended the day mid-afternoon, and spent the last couple of hours waiting at the chalet (mostly out on the balcony) while Jono took the kids for a bunch more runs. I enjoyed that time to myself (even though I’m an extravert!) 😉 I gave thanks for the beautiful view. I prayed. I gave thanks for my body’s abilities: though limited, I am so grateful for what I was able to do. (I never dreamed I would be able to go skiing during my fourth chemo cycle.) I watched people. I thanked God for the warm weather which meant I was able to breathe fairly comfortably outdoors. I chatted with strangers (I’m an extravert!) I rejoiced and rested and celebrated!

… and we came home glowing! I think I still may be!