We decided that one of the things that we wanted to try while living here in France was skiing. Many people told us about how much more affordable and accessible skiing is in this area. Although we don't get snow on a regular basis in Clermont, we are about 45 minutes from beautiful areas in higher elevations that get great snow. Before Christmas, we went to Super Besse to rent skis for the season. We went with another family from SC that moved here a few months before we did. We had to rent the skis, ski boots, batons for everyone and helmets for the kids. By the time we dragged all of the gear to our van, we were exhausted. Afterwards, the kids had a ball playing in the snow. Even the dads joined in. The moms however, found a very cozy spot in a cafe to sip cocoa and cappuccino. Now that's my idea of fun!
The weeks following the ski rentals were spent gathering the necessary gear for skiing. Thermal gloves, ski socks, long underwear, fleece jackets, ski googles, ski pants, ski jackets, snow boots. I had no intentions on any of us getting cold. After several trips to the sporting goods store, we were ready!
Our 1st time out was January 17th. Unfortunately, Lauren was sick, so Daniele stayed behind and studied while the rest of us took our 1st lessons. We signed up for group lessons that include transportation to and from the slopes and lunch. We left at 8 and returned at 7 pm. All in all the day was successful. I only fell 3 times! And once was because Preston careened into me! Preston fell more than 3 times, but he made more progress than I did. Both John and Maya did ok. Learning anything new is frustrating. The hardest part for me was getting used to walking in the ski boots. Learning to get back up after falling with the skis on wasn't easy either.
The 2nd lesson was on January 23rd. This time the entire family was able to go. Again the boots were really heavy, but getting the skis on was easier and stopping was easier too. In fact, we were able to go to more difficult runs this time, still the baby slopes, though! Again it was frustrating. We were only able to stay for the morning session this time. And that was a good thing for me. I got a little ticked off at the instructor. He was a little too busy flirting with the new student and continued to rush me, the slowest student, along. At one point, the few "les gros mots" that I know came to mind! Preston stopped translating for the instructor after one of my dirty looks. I think I scared Preston.
So far, Lauren hates it, John is the best, Maya likes it ok, Daniele wants to try again, Preston is doing ok, and I am sitting here with my knee propped up because I think I pulled a muscle. I guess I am not as young as I used to be!
2 lessons down, 4 to go!
1 comment:
I tried snow boarding last year. In 20 minutes I jammed my shoulder, twisted my knee and jammed a finger. And that was on the baby slope. Then the instructor said we were going to the top. I looked at that mountain and was like I DON'T THIIINK SO!! Turned my equipment in and went to the lodge for lunch where I chilled until I went home.
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