“Have you pursued your passion within the last year? The last month? The last week? The last two days?”
These were the words of Louise Limoge from the Vermont Climbing and Adventure School, our featured presenter at this year’s Ladies Nordic Ski Expo. A remarkable number of women remained standing until her questions ceased, having pursued a passion of their own within just a few days.
“And why do you make that time?” Louise continued. Responses slowly surfaced. “It makes me feel alive.” “It allows me to live in the moment.” “It clears my mind.” “It keeps me going when the going gets tough.”
Back out on skis, I smiled to myself as 6 of us playfully tracked up a skim-coat of powder that had collected in the orchard next to Trapp Family Lodge. Looking to extend our run, we climbed up above the apple trees to what we guessed was some sort of water treatment system. We were giddy, named our great new run the “Sewer Chutes,” and squeezed in as many turns as possible down the chutes and through the orchard to the road.
Later on, we poked up a hill looking for more fun. We were off-trail and adjacent to a sugarbush and some sap lines. One group member looked ahead and discovered a logging road, perfect for some turns, and untouched by skiers. “I love exploring,” she proclaimed before grabbing first tracks in our “Sap Chutes.” Needless to say, dozens of other participants were challenging and entertaining themselves in similar ways, whether putting skis on for the first time, perfecting their diagonal stride, pulling themselves or a friend up from a fall, or refining their skate technique.
I’m sure many of us in attendance had reflected on our passions and why and how often we pursue them previously, and we likely will again. But it was a moving moment to be surrounded by the spirit and energy Louise inspired 120 adventuresome women to evoke… A spirit and energy that were certainly alive and well out on the snow.
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This popular event would not be possible without the generous participation of our skilled and fun-loving volunteer instructors. It is a pleasure to work with and learn from them. The event is also made possible by the gracious and professional staff at the Trapp Family Lodge who provide us with excellent ski facilities, and a great lunch and apres ski party. In addition, we are grateful to our friends at Outdoor Gear Exchange, SkiRack, Julbo USA, Red Hen Baking Co., Lake Champlain Chocolates, Vermont Smoke and Cure, Shelburne Vineyards, and Cabot Creamery Cooperative for sharing their awesome products, services, and support!
If you participated in the 2015 Ladies Nordic Ski Expo, we welcome your feedback. If you weren’t able to make it this year, plan to join us next year, and check out the other great offerings on our tours and events calendar. Carpe Skiem!
You can find more photos from the 2015 Ladies Nordic Ski Expo HERE.
