Last night was a full moon and I am so blessed to have a group of wonderful female friends who love hiking with me in the snow under the light of a full moon all winter. If you have never experienced it, it is kind of a magical thing! The moon beams reflecting off the snow create enough illumination to see where you are going, but with a fairy tale kind of blue light. Our hikes usually involve challenging ourselves physically as well. They average around three miles and always include mountainous trail. Depending on how cold it is, pausing at the top for a snack and maybe some wine is an added bonus. But the most beautiful part of this ritual is the friendship we share.
Last night there was only five of us: sometimes there are twelve. Most of us met through our children: some in Lamaze classes 21 years ago, some in pre-school, class parties, girl scouts, book clubs, sports, camping… Our children no longer anchor our connection; it stands solid like the foundations we laid for each of them. While the kids’ comings and goings, successes and challenges are still a part of our connection; it is bigger than that. There is sharing of personal struggles, parent’s health, parent’s deaths, weight gain, slowed metabolism, new jobs, cancer, divorce, stress and anxiety. And there is also celebrating birthdays, wine tasting in Palisade, backpacking trips, ski days and moonlight hikes…
Our adventures reassure me of my youth, inspire me to challenge myself physically, validate my ideas and fears and restore my confidence as a mom, woman and friend.
I am so grateful for these ladies and other friends who have and continue to inspire me, make me ask questions and remind me of what is possible.
Here’s to our special friends!
