I have a new hobby, it’s called Merikan Missiling.  Or to those not au fait with the term, really its sledding.  We came across the Merikan Missile sleds on a recent hike.  We were tromping our way up a trail on our snowshoes when we heard whoops and yells emitting from ahead. The raucousness got louder and we were rapidly approached by a person bombing out from between the trees.  We dove off the path into the sage brush that lined it.  Then we turned our attention back to the trail…

Another person appeared, and then another, each with a grin spread from ear to ear – smiling, laughing, cheering, and screaming.  A whole family whizzed past.  After their voices trailed off, we looked at each other.  Wow.  Now that looked FUN!  There was no doubt we were enjoying our snowshoe, but when we got to the top of the trail, stopped to admire the view and have a snack, we would just turn around and head back down.  Wouldn’t it be fun to do the climb, but whizz back down on a sled instead?

My husband took it upon himself to research what type of sleds these were.  He had noticed the design as they tore past – small and compact with large handles.  Perfect for easily carrying on the climb up, and fast and aerodynamic for the way down.  Before I knew it four shiny new sleds arrived at out front door.  We could not wait to try them.

Play time and laughter on my Merikan Missile Sled.

I was nervous at first.  As adults we sometimes forget how to play, how to let go, take risks.  I cautiously slid a few feet, before pulling back hard, to try out the sled’s braking system.  It stopped quickly.  OK, I think I have got this.  Now it was time to really have fun and let loose.  My family and I loved it.  We giggled, hooted, and hollered the whole way down.  I was out of breath and filled with adrenalin from the thrill and fun of it all.  We commented that we all felt like children.

That got me thinking.  I want to have this child-like feeling more often – continue to play, laugh, and have fun.  It does us good.  Audrey Hepburn once said “I love people who make me laugh. I honestly think it’s the thing I like most, to laugh. It cures a multitude of ills. It’s probably the most important thing in a person.”  I agree with Audrey and fortunately my husband makes me laugh all the time.  Between him and my new sled I am on to a good thing.  I hope you find something to make you laugh today :)

Lydia