Honestly, I live in a cold climate but don’t like the cold; I stay to be near family. And it’s a pretty good place to live even when it’s cold.

This winter is bringing about two considerations: 1) My body must have been a bear in a prior life because it thinks it wants to hibernate all winter and 2) I’ve been busy planning another big trip that will require me to increase my fitness (that’s another story…stayed tuned!)

Last year I decided I needed to find a way to enjoy winter, and bought myself some good gear (Smartwool baselayer, Carhart water resistant jacket, those amazing NexGrip boots made by a family-owned company in Quebec that are the first boots I’ve ever owned that keep my feet warm(!) and they’re gorgeous and have their signature built-in crampon for instant sure-footedness wherever you are, and more).

So, to ensure I get fresh air and exercise regularly throughout the season, I look for reasons to make it fun and what better way than to ask a friend to hike a hill with you? Cathy and I needed to catch up from the holidays so this was perfect.

We met at Bradbury Mountain State Park in Pownal, Maine on a gorgeous, brilliant, and sunny but cold day with a bountiful blue sky and visibility for miles. A layer of crunchy snow still covered the ground throughout the forested trails with some icy patches but nothing my boots couldn’t handle with the crampon activated! I’d definitely recommend wearing your spikes for the icy bits.

The climb to the overlook was good but the view from the top was excellent on this clear day!! And even better when you’ve got a dear friend on the trail with you. 😊💗

Snowshoeing and hiking are my fave activities though I’m hoping to add Nordic skiing to the list this year! How do you stay active in winter?

Love,

Wen

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