If my feelings are any indication of the rest of the skiing population’s, waxing skis is like doing chores. Smashed somewhere between taking out the trash and cleaning the toilet. We only do it because we have to. If we’re lucky, we can pay someone else to do it for us. If we’re not that lucky, we drink wine. When Brittany and I first got together, we shared one common vision: bring SheJumps to Portland. On February 11, our dream became a reality as women transplanted here from Alaska, Utah, and the East coast wandered into my living room, eager to make friends and check “Wax skis!” off their to-do lists. Ranging from scientists from the suburbs to ski patrollers from Telluride, everyone had their own unique and inspiring story to tell. Stoke was high as we discussed visions for backcountry trips to Bend, volunteer sessions with the Boys & Girls Club, avalanche certification classes, and how great it was to finally have launched a community like SheJumps in the Portland area. Everyone left with their lips a little redder, their skis or board freshly waxed, and excited about the “jumping” to come. —Laura Grieser, SJ Portland chair