This is Maine

Slower than snowmobiling yet quicker than your average stroll, strapping on the cross country skis is a great way to get a workout and a breath of fresh air. This shot was taken last winter in West Farmington on a bridge that use to carry trains but now facilitates skiers and sledders. These petrified tracks serve as the approach to the sweet trails of Titcomb Hill.

Like a gymnast or a champion jockey (or even a mediocre jockey) I do not have the body type to be a professional cross country skier. But that is fine. My body type suits me just fine for teaching and creating art, as well as playing sloppy, awkward pickup basketball games with other sloppy and awkward people. A few minutes into the ski trip it is apparent why cross country skiers are so fit.

Also, when you go at a slow pace you really soak up the pristine Maine woods. You notice the snow hanging on for dear life onto branches and meandering of small animal tracks through the trees. We live in a beautiful place, but even when the weather tries to beat you back it is still important to get out there and realize the beauty.
submitted by Joe McLaughlin