Messages from the Other Side

The unexpected ways I get signs from my late mother.

I went cross country skiing for the first time ever yesterday.

(Thanks to Melissa for finally getting me to go. She also has a Substack called Co-operative Evolution.. go give it a read!)

I’m surprised I haven’t ever tried cross country skiing before, since I knew it was something I would love doing, and it’s such a good way to embrace the winter season. I grew up downhill skiing with my family, so I have fond memories of being out on the slopes.

As someone who is also a minimalist and likes to travel light, I am typically turned off by any pastime that requires bulky gear, which is probably why it took me so long to try it. But I am so glad I finally did!

Gliding through a seemingly endless white expanse is mesmerizing. It’s invigorating yet peaceful, and easily centers you in the present moment.

Coincidentally, we went cross country skiing on the same rail trail I used to wander immediately after my mother’s death last spring. I hadn’t been there since then, though I recalled how I had …