So, I climbed a mountain.

Aunt Jemima comes out to play on the Hollywood Hills!

Yep, I did. I couldn't believe it myself. I have to say though, that on the way up I was contemplating the many ways I could quit, stop, give up, yadda yadda, I realized that a: no one would come and get me. b: no matter which way I go, it was equally as hard to get out of the predicament. and c: If I just kept going, I'd complete the goal, have something to brag about and be proud that yes, even I can climb a mountain. Needless to say, I realized that there was no place for the helicopter to land and thus, I kept going.

Along the way, I overheard another hiker say to her friend, "If we did this for a month, we'd be in shape." Well, yeah, you're right....kinda. We kinda laughed it off, to be honest. Then, we started going up. And up. And up some more...not just low grade up, but STEEP up! And then—after I took a break, removed clothing, wiped away the sweat, cursed my surroundings and peed behind a bush—I understood. Yes, if I did this everyday for a month, I'd be a whole helluva lot better off than I am right now. The key is to keep at it—past the month—forever.

I was encouraged by my friends, the other hikers and oddly enough, myself. That's what does it for me. The love. It's fun. Interaction. Grab a friend. Go hiking, walking, running, jogging, etc... just get out there and do it. Enjoy nature. Soak. But, have fun doing it and you'll never stop. AND eventually, you'll thank the friend who took you on the hike in the first place. Annie and Chris, ya'll are an inspiration for the masses!