NSC: How long have you been skiing? How did you start?
In my senior year at college, my roommates got me to try skiing. They showed me how to snowplow for a few minutes and then left. I spent much of that afternoon on the bunny slopes trying to get up while little kids whizzed past spraying snow all over me.
NSC: How did you hear of NSC? What convinced you to join?
I broke my leg in 2003 when my 9 year old ski bindings didn’t release. I bought new shaped skis for safety, but they were so much more fun to ski on, I started looking for a way to ski more often. I reviewed websites of every ski club in the Bay Area and picked NSC which seemed to have the best program. Not having a 4WD and wanting to meet more people to ski with, bus trips were perfect for me.
NSC: What impressed you about NSC? How did you become a board member?
On my first trip I was very impressed with how the members all contributed to making the trip work. The tour leaders had everything beautifully organized but even more impressive was the volunteer spirit of everyone on the trip. When the bus arrived, a group started loading the gear without even being asked. When the meal was served on the bus, people just stood up on their own to form a relay for passing plates back. When the bus arrived, several volunteers helped carry food and equipment to the leader’s cabin. It was like that all weekend. Having benefited so much from other member’s efforts during my first trips with the club I was happy to say yes when I was asked to join the board. My participation on the board has been as rewarding in many ways as the ski trips and other NSC activities.
NSC: What was your most memorable ski trip?
While skiing with friends one year at Breckenridge, the powder was fantastic. We had a great time exploring the mountain until the snow got heavy and my friends headed for the bar. I stayed out and as I headed down the slopes I was surrounded by snow so thick that at times I couldn’t see more than a few yards. The very dry snow was fluttering down so gently it made the scene seem like a dream. Much of the time I was skiing in a bubble with only a few yards of trail and the falling snow visible. It was completely quiet except for my skis and breathing. Occasionally I would come close to another skier I could hear but not see. Then he would pass by and I would be alone again. I was filled with deep feelings of tranquility and contentment. Sometimes when skiing poorly or struggling physically I ask myself what am I doing this for, I remember and I have my answer.
NSC: What are some of your other hobbies/interests?
For several years my main passion was international travel.—in over 60 countries for work & pleasure to date. Some of my most rewarding experiences involved immersing myself in other cultures, like in a remote village with only local residents. I like to read history, current affairs, travel, cultural differences, and ceramics. I enjoy working with computers and doing analytical tasks. I met some new friends through a website devoted to food. We try out various restaurants and post our reviews on the website. I recently started taking ceramics classes at Foothill College and have been voraciously studying everything I can find about them. It is becoming a real obsession.
NSC: Anything else you would like to share with our membership?
I’m very grateful for all I have gotten out of the club in terms of skiing experiences, new friendships, and participating in community events. At a time when ski clubs and other membership organizations nationwide are experiencing declining memberships, I really hope all the members will make an extra effort to support our activities. We have a very special club with great people and we offer something unique you can only get through face to face shared experiences.
