[The following is a designated ‘Laura-only’ to-do]

Flying down hills at fast speeds, strapped to two metal poles, is not the smartest activity for someone recovering from knee surgery. Physically, I might have been able to handle the trail if I hadn’t freaked out, threw off my boots in a huff, and quit towards the end. But I guess mentally, I’m just not ready for cross country skiing. I just couldn’t get over the idea of my body falling one way, and my ski (with my knee attached) going the opposite way. The thought kept me guarded and on edge and uncomfortable, which is a shame, because I really did enjoy the experience and the beauty all around me.