A Sunny February Day for Cross-Country Skiing

It was one of those perfect bluebird days in late February, the kind that feels like a gift. The sun was high and bright, and with a solid snowpack still on the ground, we decided it was a good day for some cross-country skiing near home. We started out in a wide-open meadow, its surface tracked up by dozens of other skiers who had the same idea.

The scale of the landscape under that clear sky was immense. We stopped for a bit just to take in the view across the valley toward the distant, snow-covered peaks. The air was still and cold, and sounds didn't carry far. It felt quiet and expansive, even with the evidence of other people all around.

After crossing the meadow, the trail took us into a grove of tall pine trees. The feeling immediately changed as we moved out of the direct sun. The light filtered down through the high branches, creating long shadows on the snow. It was a simple afternoon out, just moving through the bright sun and cool shade.