SkiWeek #2, Mason Completes the Ultimate Challenge

Mon, 28 January 2008, 5:45 pm

Saturday, we had perfect conditions for another ski trek down to Swain. This time it was just Mason and me plus Andy and Nolan. The day started off a bit dicey as Mason must have thought he could hop right on the hill after only one week of skiing and be able to shuss right down. Well, he got a little frustrated and took off his skis at the top of the hill, refusing to put them back on. We talked about that not ever happening again in a not so patient voice from me. Andy and 5 year old Nolan kept skiing on their merry way. Luckily, they got tired, so we all went into the lodge for some much needed lunch.

Andy and the kids take a ski break by the fire
Andy and the kids take a ski break by the fire.

There, I issued Mason the Ultimate Challenge which was to complete 10 runs on the magic carpet. Mason always responds well to challenges. Sure enough, he made it through 7 runs on the carpet before he got bored with it and the entire ski school that kept blocking our way. He asked me “Dad, if we go up the big lift once, does that count to complete the Ultimate Challenge?”. I said, “Of course.” and we took our first lift ride of the day. We skied down Round Top with Mason to my right holding an outstretched ski pole.

Then he was primed up. We decided to go down lower Robinson, a slightly wider hill, where the snow was just perfect. For the first time, I could tell the light bulb was turning on. Mason, tipped his legs in the snowplow in just the right way to keep his speed under control. Then he found that he could turn his head in the direction he wanted to go, and his body would follow. He’s so perceptive for a little kid. He said “Dad, look how my body follows where me head goes!”. I couldn’t have said it better myself.

We were both tired after that run, so we went inside to rest again. It was mostly for mine and Andy’s sake as we both were towing the kids around the bottom of the hill like we were Clydesdales. Then Mason asked to go to Mile Sweep. Wow! From whimpering quitter, to Braveheart in 2 short hours. So, we went up a full chairlift together to the top of the hill for the very first time. How rewarding. Mile Sweep is definitely…well…long. My back was about to break in half after skiing down it doubled over to keep Mason from going too fast. We made it to the bottom, and both celebrated with a picture.

Mason finishes his first run down Mile Sweep
Mason finishes his first run down Mile Sweep

It was a terrific day. The kind I was dreaming about when becoming a Dad. To see my son learn such a challenging skill really is rewarding. He and I both can’t wait to do it again. Thanks to Andy and Nolan for being patient with us, you guys are awesome.

Trails skied at Swain 1/26/2008
The trails we skied at Swain 1/26/2008

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Read: 5 comments on “SkiWeek #2, Mason Completes the Ultimate Challenge”

  • 1 Andy White 29 January 2008

    Kris,

    Thank you for the kind words. All I can say is that our patience was regifted to you! Earlier this year and last year a friend of mine, Doug, and his six year old son, Nathaniel, were patient with us as Nolan followed a similar learning experience. And I used that experience to remind Nolan that he had to be patient with Mason! Every moment is a teaching one!

    Andy

  • 2 adam 29 January 2008

    Kris,

    I have terrific memories of my first ski outings with my dad. Perfect age to get em on the slopes.

    —Adam

  • 3 Terry Rzepkowski 30 January 2008

    Kris:
    Great story. You are lucky, I spent time with my kids doing the same, but alas they were all too happy not to go again as they have thin southern blood. I see you did finally get the helmut thing going. Once you have one you wonder how, or why you didn’t have one before. We are going to do Florida style recreation this weekend. We are renting a Harley Fatboy for the day Saturday.
    Uncle Terry

  • 4 Mom 31 January 2008

    Wow what memories this brings to me!! If I liked to be out in the cold a little more and felt motivated to exercise I would join you. However I would probably cause a stir on the hill with my antiquated equipment!!Altho, I think now I would make a great “lodge sitter”.
    Good to know that all our years on the slopes are giving you some great father and son moments of your own.
    Mom

  • 5 Mrs. Sero 31 January 2008

    Way to go Mason! I am so proud of you!

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