Back into downhill skiing

My brother in law Alfie Bigarel (Kathy's sister's husband) decided that I need something to do on weekends during the winter. So, after a thirty year lapse, he dragged me back in to downhill skiing. I think partly he was genuinely concerned about me, and partly he wanted to sell his ski equipment to me so he could get new equipment. J Anyway, I have had a blast! I've been four times now, and I feel real comfortable on the slopes. When you live in Northern NY, you either complain about the winter or do something about it. The exercise and camaraderie have been great. So far, my only outings have been to Titus Mountain in Malone. But I have my eyes set on other slopes as well. I have also developed a much greater appreciation for the talent of the 2010 Olympic downhillers in Vancouver. I scream with excitement (and fear) at 15 miles per hour, and they are going 70 to 90 miles per hour!

This past weekend Cory came to visit from Oregon. I haven't seen him since we camped at Glacier National Park last August. We met at Justin and Amy's house in Queensbury. On Saturday the whole crew packed up and went to ski at Titus Mountain. We had a real fun time together. We met the Bigarel clan there as well. Cody and Camryn got out on the bunny hill, and by the end of the day, Cody was going down the big hill. By the time the weekend was over, Cory had Cody and Cam in the local climbing gym. We all had a fun filled few days together. It was a great time!

Countdown

I've decided to restart my blog. The reason? Well, there are several. First, I have started the countdown (or is it up) to my retirement. I submitted my retirement letter several days ago. My last day of teaching Potsdam High School students will be January 28, 2011. That date is both exciting and terrifying. That means come January 31, 2011, I will be "unemployed" for the first time in forty one years! What will I do?

I want to remember my last year in the classroom. So this blog is for me, a diary. I learned from my travel blog of the summer of 2009 about how important memories are. As I reread that trip report I am constantly reminded of little events that I have forgotten. I really enjoy reawaking those memories.

Finally, I want my children and grandchildren to know who I really am/was. This diary is for them as well. And while I'm not good at it, I enjoy writing. I find it very therapeutic and relaxing. It forces me to reflect on what I do and think. Speaking of thinking, I may on occasion throw in some social commentary. I seriously doubt that my thoughts will change the world, but at least I will have said my piece.

It's been ten months since Kathy died. Life is starting to take on a normalcy now. That's not to say I don't shed a tear now and then. But most of the time now a photo or memory bring a smile. As someone who has been through this explained to me, the hurt goes away, but you never forget the memories.