After several days with sub-zero temps, I decided I wanted to try some more cross country skiing - I arrived at Eastman at around 1130 and got started (shooting for 1.5 hours). Unfortunately, I discovered quickly that the trails across the course had turned into a skating rink! These was completely different conditions than the last time I visited - I was disappointed to find that my skiing V didn’t work very well when I couldn’t plant a ski... The temps during my visit were in the mid teens but the bright sun made me forget the cold. I actually felt very warm (even in the extremities) after about 20 minutes on the course. I tried to do a similar amount of skiing as I normally have - using most of the same trails but also trying out a new, longer one. Along the way, I encountered my ski instructure (Maureen) for the first time in about a month and talked to a friendly French-Canadian (ex-pat) who told me about his "sharp" skis, made especially for icy conditions. Every minute and mile I skiied provided the reward of additional bricks in my wall of confidence. Unlike the previous visit, however, the ice caused me to lose my balance and footing many, many times (fell twice) - neither my body or pride were injured, though. Somehow, I put in 1.5 hours of X-C skiing (my longest stint yet). Felt pretty good when I left for home (1315) - I'm hoping the incoming snow storm will make the trails even better for next time!
