Good morning, gorgeous day! What a stunning drive to Winter Park! As I drive up in elevation, the pressure in my ears increases, along with my anxious mind. Ron teased me while I was packing: 'Mom, I feel like I’m sending you off to college.' Wow, I am so overwhelmed with this new beginning. The last time I felt anything like 'college living' was a few decades ago during my first two weeks of training in the Israeli Army.
What a day. I am beyond exhausted (emotionally and physically) from moving into my room and trying to understand all the paperwork and the apps I need to download.
I have to admit, my anxiety is through the roof. I share my feelings with my boys, who reassure me that I’ll be okay. But what I really want to hear is, 'Mom, you’ve got this! You have enough experience with new things to know you can make it.' Sometimes, all I need is that reminder and a bit of encouragement. Deep down, I know I have what it takes, but it’s hard when doubt creeps in.
I planned ahead and arrived a few days early so I could get my bearings in my new place. I walked to Winter Park Resort's village to locate the Lost and Found room and timed myself. Those who know me, know I don't like to be late.
I take the free bus to the nearest supermarket in Fraser to get a sense of distance and timing. Parking here is a nightmare. Luckily, I found a good spot, and there is no way I am giving it up. Honestly, you don't need a car here—it's more of a hassle. I will need to constantly clean my car from the snow piling up.
My room is great, and so far, the hallways have been quiet. I rarely see anyone, but I think that’s because my position started earlier than most. I guess in the next week or two, more people will occupy the rooms around me, and I’ll have to say goodbye to the quiet hallways.
The bathrooms are shared spaces, but in a way, it’s no different from what I deal with when staying at a campground. I already have a system for that.
The kitchen, however, is also a shared space, but you need to bring everything with you. Here, I need to think ahead and make sure I have all I need before I leave my room. I created a system for this as well. I have two separate bags, one for breakfast and one for dinner.
I still haven't hit the slopes. The last time I went skiing was four years ago, so I am planning to start on the bunny hill. I've never skied out West before, so I prefer to be cautious.
Tomorrow, I am meeting my boss, Melissa, and having my orientation. After that, I plan to find the courage to take the lift (I really, really don't like the lift part of skiing.)
Another stunning, sunny day surrounded by majestic white mountains!
Yay, baby, I got it! The bunny hill is fun and easy. My legs know precisely what to do. There are only a few trails open right now, and until my muscles regain their strength, I am skiing the low-resistance trail. I forgot how much I enjoy the thrill of downhill (at my level). I am curious to see what my level will be by the end of the season.
How wonderful it feels to be like a snowflake melting into the thin air. My anxious soul is rejuvenated with each successful run, and I feel like my happy self again!
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