The crisp air of fall mornings and the purchase of my ski pass have me thinking about the adventures the mountains have given me and the excitement building for the upcoming ski season. It’s also a reminder that now’s the time to start getting ready. For me, that means a mix of agility training, weightlifting, and keeping hot yoga consistent in my routine. And if I want the ultimate leg workout? Teaching young kids to ski—nothing tests your stamina quite like that.

One of my most memorable ski seasons was teaching the two boys I nanny how to ski. Getting back to the basics—balancing, turning, stopping—made me more aware of my own technique and forced me to slow down and focus. Keeping up with them every day became one of the best workouts I’ve had. It wasn’t about tackling tough terrain but refining my skills and seeing the sport through their eyes. That’s a season I’ll always cherish.

Growing up, I only skied once a year. My two brothers skied consistently in Michigan, and my sister and brother-in-law have been ski patrollers, so I always felt a bit behind. While I was focused on track and field, skiing was more of a side gig. But when I moved to a mountain town and found my rhythm, it clicked. Having my partner, Eric, by my side didn’t hurt either. Skiing quickly became more than just an occasional hobby—it became something I look forward to, train for, and try to improve at every season. It has taken the place of my pole vaulting days in college, which was my original source of adrenaline and competition.

Fast forward eight years, and now you’ll find me skiing most weekends at Canyons or PCMR, with the occasional Deer Valley day. Living just ten minutes from the mountain is a luxury I never take for granted, but as much as I love the local terrain, some of my best skiing memories have come from traveling. I’ve had incredible experiences in Steamboat, Crested Butte, Montana, Bend, Sun Valley, and even abroad in Couchevel France and Coronet Peak in New Zealand. Each place offered its own challenges—different terrain, snow, and atmosphere—but they’ve all to step outside of my comfort zone in new ways and become a better skier.

This season, I’m hoping to take things a step further by getting into ski touring. The appeal of exploring the backcountry is something I’m excited to dive into. By no means am I the best one out there, but that’s not really the point. Whether I’m keeping up with my siblings or just enjoying a good day on the slopes with friends, skiing is all about those moments that make it worthwhile. It’s taken me to new places, connected me with incredible people, and given me something to work toward year after year. And with the season just around the corner, I’m ready to see what new adventures this winter will bring.