It’s Tuesday and I am joining The Two Writing Teachers in making writing a way of life. Won’t you consider joining us?
The sun was shining bright on the white snow the day after the big storm, leaving what looked like a desert made of snow with drifts and swirls that no painter could every replicate. The scene was calling me to come out and enjoy the untouched beauty. With my new snowshoes in my hands I headed downstairs to the lakefront room to gear up and head out.
I began with the extra layers of clothing to keep me toasty on this blustery cold snow day. Extra pants, a polar fleece over the long sleeved shirt and warm, thick socks gave me the sense I would not have to worry about frostbite for sure! And then of course on went the big insulated boots.
Now that I was dressed it was time to put on my new snowshoes. With the swirling wind blowing outside, I made the quick decision to strap my shoes on in the house where I could stay warm and toasty. I placed a thick rug on the floor and attempted to slide my heavy boot between the straps. No matter how hard I pushed my toes into the straps, I couldn’t seem to make any progress in getting these new snowshoes onto my feet. I decided to sit down and try a new angle to tackle these shoes. I pushed, grunted, and sighed all with little to no results. By now I was getting very warm, in fact I was quite sweaty, just from getting these new snowshoes on my feet. I was about the give up when I finally figured out the loosening trick. I readily slipped my boots into the straps and stood to reach for my jacket. As I turned around I realized it was no where in sight. I had left it upstairs at the kitchen table.
Time to take off the snowshoes and head up the stairs. I was very aware of the fact that I was overheating with my layers and my effort in putting on my shoes. I was quickly growing tired, all before opening the door. I chugged on, noting that putting the shoes on the second time around was measurably easier. After a mere 30 minutes, I stood up and walked out the door. The cold air hit me like a sharp bite but I was determined to walk. After all, how could I quit now with all the effort I had exerted to simply get myself ready? I closed the door behind me and stepped into the snow.
Walking in those ten inches of snow seemed like a piece of cake compared to the boot battle, and with the sun shining on my face it was a sweet slice indeed! Yes, it was worth every ounce of the effort.
