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At 46, I confronted my mid-life crisis on a terrifying mountain with the highest vertical drop in Eastern Canada

I wanted my kids to experience skiing as a metaphor for facing fears head-on. Then I had to overcome my own scare on the slopes of Le Massif.

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WEB CROP Skiiers CREDIT Jean-Sébastien Chartier-Plante.JPG

Splayed out awkwardly on the frosty slopes of Quebec’s Le Massif de Charlevoix, I was the epitome of what’s known as a wipeout yard sale: skis and poles strewn around, as though laid out on display for Sunday morning bargain-hunters. My pride was in tatters, and my heart was still pounding.

It was hubris that brought me here. At age 46, I’ve been learning to be an “avid skier.” There are many reasons for this mid-life hobby: being stuck inside all winter is boring and sad. Skiing is sporty and youthful. My husband adores snowboarding, and my two daughters started barrelling down hills the moment they put on skis. Now, at ages eight and 10, they fearlessly pinball past me, hollering at me to catch up.

Mountain View of River CREDIT Claire Sibonney.JPG

At Le Massif, the view can make you feel as if you’re about to ski into the St. Lawrence River. 

Le Massif Lodging CREDIT Le Massif de Charlevoix.JPG

The ski-in, ski-out lodgings located at the base of Le Massif. 

Writer with Daughters CREDIT Claire Sibonney.JPG

Writer Claire Sibonney with her “fearless little pinballs,” Edith and Alice. 

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