Taking the time to try out the classic Midwest Winter things that everyone seems to love so much (and write about those experiences.)
Back in 2011 I ventured into the full on crazy experience of leaving California to attend college in Cleveland, Ohio. There are many reasons as to why but I like to tell everyone it was because they offered cake to me when I visited and I am an absolute sucker for cake. Keeping 2011 in mind, that means that I have truly lived in the Midwest for thirteen winters. In those thirteen winters, I have not once been sledding, tobogganing, snow-shoeing, skiing, snowboarding, or in a snowball fight. Once in college I went to a skating rink with a group of friends and that was an absolutely awful experience. I always stated that as a swimmer I belong in the water, not on top of it, and politely declined attending activities.
Recently though, I have decided that letting the fear of new activities or failing keep me from experiencing life to the fullest is the wrong way to go about things. Several of my friends greatly enjoy winter sports and activities, so now when asked to join I agree as opposed to suggesting literally anything else. Now that the holidays are done and there is still plenty of winter left to host these cold-themed activities; I will be participating in new snow-filled adventures for the first time (or the second time..)
ICE SKATING
As stated above, I went ice skating about ten years ago with a group of friends. This was my first experience out on the ice and I was terrified. Though at the time I was a collegiate swimmer, I didn't have a great grasp on body movement or coordination, adding that to the lack of confidence and experience led to a rough go at things. I pulled myself around the rink twice, and I still managed to fall two times. I was with a group that seemed very confident and skilled and I was so thoroughly embarrassed by my lack of ability. At that point, I swore I wouldn't ice skate again. Then when I started dating and it was brought up as a possible date, by someone who formerly played ice hockey, I vehemently shut that option down. I was so worried that my inability to stay vertical on the ice would immediately lead to them losing attraction to me and I would be single once again.
Cut to four years after that decision, and I went out ice skating! Not only did I go with friends and their kids, opening myself up to be shown up by a three year old, but also with the guy I am seeing. I didn't let the fear of falling hold me back. I didn't let myself back out because I was nervous. I took the risk of looking stupid or uncoordinated in order to gain some experience and practice a new skill that I would like to develop even more. Overall, it was an enjoyable time and I do feel that I was starting to learn a lot, but the win I am most proud of overall is not falling a single time.
Though it took several laps around to pick up some of the skills and "natural" instincts, I only pulled around the rink for one lap. Occasionally, I would make my way back over just to balance or I would lean on someone with me for support, but mostly I was stubborn and turned down help in a "I'm a strong independent woman" sort of way. I mostly wanted to be able to figure out the motions without support so that I could manage without needing a crutch.
Taking the time to practice and learn, here are the things I discovered (right or wrong, I'm not super sure):
You must resist the urge to walk.. it is a glide, not a step
Don't put your weight in your heels, that always led to me shifting backwards and losing balance
Pulling yourself around actually feels more unnatural than attempting to move unassisted
Push out and back with the foot that isn't gliding
For me, I consistently keep my right foot gliding and my left foot pushing. Though I know this is wrong, with more practice I hope to gain coordination and muscle memory.
Ice skating truly is a fun winter activity and there are plenty of people who go and struggle, but you all cheer each other on as you make progress. Open skate is a surprisingly uplifting place.
Looking awkward and uncomfortable, but still putting your best effort in, doesn't make you unattractive.
Those are my ice skating take aways. I'm not sure what the next activity will be or if there is a winter equivalent to cider donuts in fall, but I look forward to finally experiencing all that winter in the Midwest has to offer.
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