The first winter snow is romantic. The second, third, fourth, and so on makes it dreadful. The weather in New York City has been challenging. Everything from running errands to the daily commute has made me want to dial 311 and ask the new mayor to implement a hibernation month. During one such trying commute, I read an article on Lance Mackey that was spectacular.

The passion, the love, the excellence - well, I was blown away. I do not consider myself the outdoorsy type. My idea of an extreme sport is questing through Bergdorf's shoe department late December to early January (hunting season for Balenciagas). So for me to be absorbed in this story was surprising.

A singular passion tied to a spiritual connection to his team made me yearn for a different life. It was a story of a life so well-lived (and continues to go on, thankfully!), told in a piece so well-written, I was cheering all throughout.

The one unsettling part, is that as a master in his sport, Mackey still struggles financially. Apparently, the monetary rewards in mushing barely pay for the dogs' feed and care. The Olympics is a different story. If I'm not misinformed, an athlete bringing home the gold is set for life. This, I was told while watching a recount of the Tonya Harding / Kerrigan press.

I wish more companies would see what a compelling product endorser Lance Mackey is. (I must tweet this out to Epic Bar).

It may snow again this weekend and if Monday starts off with another treacherous commute, my mind will drift off to the Iditarod - the thrill, the heartache, the passion.

fyi, the article was read in print but I believe it can still be found on www.Outsideonline.com ~e