Family

One of the biggest disadvantages of living in a remote, mountain town is being so far away from family. I have a bit of a reputation for “independence,” when in reality what I’m most often seeking is adventure. (It’s just that sometimes, being independent is a requirement of the adventuring gig, you know?) But the truth is, I don’t get to see my family often enough.

So it was a rare treat last week when I was able to join 12 other women in my family at a cousin’s cabin near Bear Valley for our “Snowshoe Jamboree.” Can I just tell you how much ridiculous fun it was? And can I further state how awesome my family is?

There is a whole lot to be said for surrounding yourself with people who have known you since the day you were born. People from whom you do not need to hide your embarrassing truths because they most likely know them already. People who can laugh as loudly as you can, and do so regularly. People who, in so many obvious ways, are quite a bit like yourself.

There was hiking involved, and snowshoeing. A good amount of eating, of course, and some consumption of wine. One lucky ultrarunner could run straight out the cabin door, no driving needed, to run trails through the nearby state park.

But all of those things were just joyful accoutrements to the main activity of laughing, sharing, and remembering with family.

Rumor has it this will be an annual trip, and I'm already looking forward next year's rendition.