Heidi and Lars Go Skiing

In an effort to reconnect with their Norwegian heritage, Heidi and Lars decided more cross country skiing must be done before all the snow in the sunny southwest was gone. Heidi was most frustrated by her recent experience in the Mt. Taylor Quadrathlon, and so she searched far and wide for a cross country ski area that was more than 1 mile long, and involved more skiing, and less hiking up hill and falling downhill.

The wonders of the internet came to the rescue, displaying as the first google result the Southwest Nordic Ski Club. While Heidi was uncertain about the Norwegian-inity of using the internet, communication using trumpets fashioned from the horns of large animals was beyond her. Not to mention the hunting, slaying and removing said horn in the first place. The SW Ski Club mentioned several possible places to cross country ski, and touted its very own groomed course in Los Alamos as wonderful.

To Los Alamos we go!

The day was beautiful, with a sunny blue sky and warm temperatures. Lars only complained that Heidi’s hair really ought to be plaited to truly get in the spirit of Nordic skiing. Heidi wished to avoid comparisons to Pippi Longstocking. The course was fantastic with moderate climbs forming a loop that lead to a view of the Valle Caldera. Lars picked up the knack of kicking and sliding on his skis. Heidi grinned widely while confidently gliding downhill on the wide groomed trail.

A yodel was bursting to be released from Heidi’s throat, but too timid, she swallowed it instead. This reconnecting with one’s heritage can be tricky. Both Lars and Heidi, after such a successful bout with skis on their feet, demanded a do-over for the Mt. Taylor Quadrathlon ski. “Vengeance will be ours!” Lars exclaimed. “Until next year,” Heidi threatened.

The end of the trip culminated with a fine meal, though the draughts of choice, it must be noted, were pop instead of mead. Our novice adventurers have much to learn.