Oops!

Thats me in red at the finish of the 26K Pepsi Challenge!

Rippin' through the turn. Temps at about 6 above F. Brrr!

My first ski race of the 2009 season was the Pepsi Challenge at Giants Ridge in Biwabik, MN.   I skied the 26 kilometer classic (technique) and felt great!  I was so pleased!  The temp at race start was in the single digits and with newly fallen snow made for both a beautiful, chilly, and slow-sliding race day.  Oh well, thats ski racing.

I DEDICATED this race to my brother-in-law and friend, Jim Owens.  Jim is married to my sister Barb and he died on January 4th of 2009.  We all miss Jim so much!  He lived and thrived for ten years with a brain tumor and was a true warrior for cancer survivorship!  Coming from a competitive athlete’s background, Jim was a true inspiration for me and so many others.  He was always so supportive of my ski racing and part of my “fan club” along with my sisters, brother, dad and nephew Max.  Max is Jim and Barb’s 9 year old son and he has cheered me on through many a race!

Backyard of my gallery

I love snow!  I love winter!  We are getting plenty of it here in Ely.  Come visit!  I thought you would enjoy some images of the “accumulation” around my gallery/studio.  Thank goodness I have a reliable and efficient shoveler so I can be out photographing, skiing, and enjoying the white stuff!  Did I tell you how much I love the subzero temps too.  Yes, I am a freak (in some people’s eyes), but I love how it makes me feel ALIVE!

Happy New Year!

Deb

Frontyard of my gallery