Our Big Bear Ski Adventure 🎿 Lessons from the slopes

I hope this newsletter finds you cozy and warm, wherever you are. I recently returned from a delightful family ski trip to Big Bear, the very city that inspired the setting for my Girl Missing series. Nestled about two hours from our home in the desert near Palm Springs, Big Bear is our go-to retreat, offering solace and adventure in both winter and summer with its ski resorts and beautiful lake.

This trip was particularly special as it marked our 6-year-old son Tristan's first foray into skiing—a challenge that turned into a heartwarming journey of growth and laughter for all of us. Teaching Tristan to ski was no small feat. The patience and persistence required reminded me so much of the writing process. Just like developing a story, there were falls, moments of hesitation, but above all, an underlying current of excitement and the thrill of trying something new.

 Kevin, ever the supportive father and husband, found an ingenious way to encourage Tristan down the slopes. He skied backwards down the hill, arms open, inviting Tristan to glide into his embrace. This act of trust and encouragement was a sight to behold, and it wasn't long before Tristan was navigating the bunny hill on his own, his confidence blooming with each run.

 Drawing parallels between this experience and writing, I'm reminded of the countless times I've had to pick myself back up, dust off the snow (or in my case, the rejection letters and plot holes), and try again. Both skiing and writing are practices in resilience, patience, and the joy of learning. They require us to embrace the process, with all its ups and downs, celebrating each small victory along the way.

Reflecting on this trip, I'm reminded of the importance of family, the resilience we all possess, and the beauty of stepping out of our comfort zones to try something new. These experiences, whether on the slopes or in front of a blank page, enrich our lives, adding depth and color to our stories.

If you've enjoyed this glimpse into our family adventure and the parallels I've drawn with the writing process, I invite you to delve deeper into the world of Big Bear and discover more about its influence on my writing. Girl Missing is not just a series; it's a journey into the heart and soul of a place that has captivated me and my family. Get your copy today and experience the mystery, the beauty, and the adventure that Big Bear has to offer through the eyes of my characters.

 Thank you for allowing me to share this slice of my life with you. Here's to finding adventure, learning in every challenge, and writing our own stories, on and off the slopes.

Warmly,

Kate Gable