As has become a tradition for me, I welcomed the new year outdoors. I was blessed to spend the first day of 2016 snowshoeing on Mount Baker with my grandson Buster, and new friends Evie & Andrea. The weather was about as perfect as it could be, the snow was fabulous, and the company wonderful. There was plenty of time for introspective and reflection - what did I want to gain in this new year? Where did I see myself at the end of the year and what was I going to do to get there? In what areas do I need to grow? How do I become a better person?
I will be returning to the crater rim of Mt St Helens again this year. My sister fell ill just prior last year's climb. Although I loved sharing the experience with the friends who made the trip, I missed having my little sister at my side. This return trip will be for her - I gained what I needed on a personal level from last year's climb.
Since I will be out hiking to maintain my conditioning for this year's climb, I signed up for a 52 Hike Challenge. It is my goal to log 52 hikes between now and the end of September. I will post details here for the enjoyment of my readers. I am looking forward to the challenge as it gives me the incentive to get out on some new trails, as well as returning to a few favorites.
The mountains continue to call to me - and I continue to answer that call. I plan to summit 12 peaks this year. Some will be return trips, but I also hope to add a few new ones to my list. I love the symbolism of attaining summits - for me it is a spiritual journey rather than a desire to conquer. There is nothing macho about arrogance. Instead I pursue grace, humility, and a unification of spirits. This is growth, right? Can I become a better person by learning and accepting my place in the universe? Perhaps not, but there's no harm in trying.
I had really hoped to be able to share this year's adventure with my grandson, Buster. He has enjoyed hiking with me the past few years and is becoming a good little outdoorsman. He very much wanted to do Mt St Helens with me this year. With a little dedication to conditioning and support from his 'hiking family', I have little doubt that he could make the journey. As of this writing, he no longer has his mother's permission to go. I continue to hope she will come around and stand by her original decision to let him join us. Sharing the experience with both my sister and my grandson would just about put me on the moon...
My perspective this year isn't so much about proving to myself that I "can" ... but to bolster the self-confidence I developed last year. To nurture the adventurous spirit that makes me restless. To build relationships with my friends and family, as well as the natural world around me. To learn, and explore, and connect.
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