18 Comments
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Rachel Raskin's avatar

“I am in the arena”. Isn’t that such a good feeling to be able to say that? And also, to show those beautiful babies of yours that it’s all about LIVING rather than WINNING? So many people stay home because they are afraid not to be “enough” (whatever that is!) that they miss the joy of being in the snow and the wind and the excitement of celebrating not falling off of the ski lift (hypothetically? lol) Proud of you as always!

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Francesca Fartaj's avatar

I am constantly surprised that I don’t see more skis, boards, and people having fallen off the lift! If we can be so together there why can’t we be out and about in our daily lives? ;-)

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Renee Butkus's avatar

I’m so proud of you for giving it a go! It’s a steep learning curve but once you have it, you’ll have it forever. I find being on the mountain to be one great meditation. So happy for you! And thank you for your vulnerability!

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Francesca Fartaj's avatar

I have never really spent time in the mountains before this winter. Nature is such a grounding and nourishing gift. Yes, "one great meditation." I feel so thankful for this time in the snow, with the trees, the fresh air, and myself, even though I am finding it a bit later in life. Thank you Renee. It is so lovely to connect with you. xoxo

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Laura's avatar

Love this! I’ve never heard that quote before. I took a screenshot of it because it’s so amazing.

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Francesca Fartaj's avatar

One of my favorites. It has inspired me countless times to go for it and to keep trying.

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Noushin Vahabzadeh's avatar

Perfectly blue skies and sun with fresh powder. What more could you ask for! Love your adventures.

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Francesca Fartaj's avatar

Working to get good enough to make it your way to Canada, baby!

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Nilou Razai's avatar

Thank you for sharing this. Every winter, as Ali and the kids spend day after day skiing, I promise myself that the next year will be the year I give it a go. So happy that you are in the arena. I will join you there the very next opportunity.

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Francesca Fartaj's avatar

❤️ I am humbled and happy that my experience (which is really all of ours) of the growing pains of learning a new skill gives you some inspiration to dare greatly too. To spend the time in the beautiful mountains, making those memories, and sharing those experiences with your dear family are worth the challenge of learning. Plus you are setting such a great example for them!

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Ana Lisa's avatar

Love this! And I relate, two of my girls and I started ice skating lessons last winter (spring for me.) It’s a mental game on many levels. Just keep showing up for yourself, you’re worth it 🥰❤️

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Francesca Fartaj's avatar

Aww Ana Lisa, thank you for that loving encouragement. And thank you for sharing your experience. Great comrades in the arena together. Onward and upward!

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Christine Dabbs's avatar

You go girl….never stop!!!

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Francesca Fartaj's avatar

Not until I am dead.

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Sarah Fay - SW@W's avatar

I love the photos!

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Mr. Jreft's avatar

It looks like you had an amazing time. It’s great that you are learning snowboarding!!!

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Francesca Fartaj's avatar

Thank you for that encouragement!

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Claire Smith's avatar

Hey,at least you went for it! So proud of you 💕👏👏👏 I’m actually a little surprised B hung with you. I would expect her to meet you at the bottom of the mountain saying “come on mom!” They will ALWAYS know you were ALWAYS present. You are fearless (even if it’s only on the outside!) and that is what you are teaching your kids. On the other side of fear is freedom

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