of layers, Beth.” JerRic walked funny in the skis.
I couldn't help laughing. “You need them to stay warm.”
We got on the ski lift. JerRic's eyes were more concerned than usual. He was awkward getting off the lift.
He let out a deep breath. “We do that every time?”
“Yeah, that's the idea.” I laughed as I backhanded him. “Come on, Jer. You'll be fine. It's not too big of a hill.”
“It looks big enough to me.” He winced.
“Just do what I do. Okay?” I showed him how to stand.
“I think I got it.” He nodded.
“Now, push off with the poles.” I did a slow push off. “Stop like this.” I showed him.
JerRic rolled slowly past me. I laughed. He tried to stop and lost his pole. I laughed again.
I scooped up his pole. “Here, you might need this.” I handed it to him. “You'll get the hang of it. Don't worry, I will let you practice as many times as you need to.” I laughed.
“Why does that feel like a threat?” JerRic made a face.
“Come on, Jer. Where is your sense of adventure?” I teased.
“Didn't you steal that line from me?” JerRic chuckled.
“Maybe.” I smiled. “What's yours is mine and what's mine is mine.” I laughed. My cheeks were getting cold. I put a hand on them to warm them up.
“I don't think that is how it works.” JerRic shook his head no.
“Sure it is.” I flashed him a grin.
It only took a few times down the slopes for JerRic to catch on. I was very proud of him. If he had fun, I had a good chance of having a ski partner for life.
JerRic grinned. “This time I'm going to win.”
“You can try.” I accepted his challenge.
“Ready, set, go!” JerRic yelled.
I gave him a second head start. I pushed off with my poles. I bent my knees and passed JerRic . I came to a stop a full three seconds before JerRic arrive. I couldn't help laughing.
“Okay, I get it. That's your way of saying you win.” JerRic's eyes held love for me.
“Come on, let's get some hot chocolate.” I held out my hand to him.
“Is that a consolation prize?” JerRic made a pitiful face.
I laughed. “No, Babe. It's the cold prize.”
My husband took my hand. Ten minutes later, we were cuddled on the couch in front of the fireplace with hot chocolate in our hands.
“You're really good.” JerRic took a drink from his mug.
“Thanks.” I smiled. “You're a fast learner. Please tell me that you will go with me again?”
“Yeah, Beth.” He nodded. “I'd like that.”