The Ski Party (Part 1)

After Colin gave me my very own by-line I suddenly dropped out of sight.  I have sent in a few "Wanda's World" articles telling a little about what happened in my world but I don't think they made much sense - not even to me.  But for a come back let's go back in time to the early 60's (yes, I'm that old).

We live in what's called the Tennessee River Valley, near a large lake between to hydro-electric dams.  This area is ideal for lots of fishing and water sports, but there is also a lot of large barge transport traffic.

The following event happened to me and my extended family during an outting on the lake.  Early one Saturday we met for a family day of fun on the lake, several speed boats for skiing, and several fishing boats to gather the goods for a fish fry.  This was to be my first day of "learning to ski" even though I wanted nothing to do with getting in the water.  I was happy just to ride and be a spotter.  But my dad and uncle dragged me into the water, pulled me out until I was supported by my life jacket, and attached the skis to my feet.  Then the "go" signal was given.

I was, and am, deathly afraid of having no ground under me, not being able to feel my feet on the firm and solid.  I was scared of what might be in the water with me; 50 lb. catfishes, snakes, etc.  I just did not want to do this.  I'd hated swimming lessons too.  No water over my head!  "Coward" of the family!  This could not be since I was the oldest of the grand children and had an example to set.  "GO"

So off down the river I went, for maybe 20 feet, feeling the whole time as if my body was being ripped apart, but afraid to let go.  I never got up on the skis, and I have been in severe back pain ever since.

A few months later the PE teacher in school made things worse, but that is for part 2.

(Written by Wanda, posted by Lee: Wanda is in rehab recovering from a broken knee:  no more skydiving)