A group of fifteen Grace Christian University students and Community Life interns braved the cold and snow to ski at Caberfae Peaks Ski Resort in Cadillac, Michigan a few weeks ago. The group borrowed Grace vans, gathered sack dinners from the kitchen, and, with help from Student Government, bought reduced price lift and rental tickets. While it may have felt like -20 with the wind chill, students were excited about the trip.
Students could choose to ski or snowboard. While the more experienced skiers and snowboarders went to the larger slopes, there were a few beginners who started on the bunny hill. Michelle Statham, Grace Freshman, shared her thoughts, “I really enjoyed snowboarding. Being my first time, I had no clue what to expect. My whole family knows how to snowboard so I figured I might as well give it a try.” Beginners received instruction from their peers and Community Life Interns. Another freshman, Kennedie Brown, stated, “Skiing was so much fun! It was easier than I thought and I had a great time laughing with all my friends! I didn’t fall once.”
With courage and a few bumps along the way, most beginners attempted the bigger slopes. It was exciting to be outdoors and witness courageous beginners learn a new sport!
The group paused later in the evening for dinner. The Grace kitchen provided sandwich fixings, chips, peanuts, and cookies. They ended the night by grabbing a hot beverage and taking a group picture. The group survived snow, wind, and wipeouts. New memories were made and many laughs were shared. Michelle Statham said, “I loved spending time with the people that went on the trip, building relationships and making new ones. I would so do it again.”
