Recently I read a headline about Lindsey Vonn's quote after the ninth surgery on her leg following her horrible crash at the most recent winter Olympics. The headline said: "I want to ski again". Surely she displays an indomitable spirit! She certainly doesn't want a physical impediment to getting on the skis, even if she will no longer be able compete.
I think I am in the same league with her in the sense that I want to keep skiing in spite of physical limitations that inevitably crop up. I would speculate there are many geezer skiers still looking forward to this coming ski season with the same passion they have had for many years. One of my 94 year old friends still has that desire even after multiple serious illnesses. And I hope to see him on the slopes this winter at least a number of times.
A week ago I deposited my gear in my ski locker at Greek Peak and arranged for tuning my skis for the new season. In spite of an arthritic back that has begun to restrict my physical activity, I trust that I will be stable enough to be able to make it to the lift and not put anyone else in jeopardy as I make my runs. It was even rejuvenating to just put my gear in the locker! When my son Colin listens to my misgivings about hitting the slopes, he reminds me there is an over 100 year old still on the slopes at Alta! It's nice to dream about that kind of longevity but I know I may have to settle for a lot less as I complete my 92nd year.
Whatever happens relative to skiing for me, I am resolved to contribute to this blog with life's musings based on observations of humanity and the joy in contributing to society in other ways. Thank heavens there will always be memories of the glory days of hitting the slopes.
Meanwhile, as I finish this blog on November 14, 2026, I look out my office window at the beautiful snowfall of 4 inches of the last couple of days. A promise of a snowy winter? ☺😀🙏
