When I sat down with my co-worker, Ken, about designing an exercise program he told me I had to have a goal to work toward in order to keep my momentum up. A marathon, a triathalon, swimming the English Channel, etc. He told me to think about what I wanted to do and we talked about it yesterday. I hated running even when I was in track so a marathon was out. I told him a triathalon was too linear (I couldn't see the end) and the English Channel is too darned cold these days. So he asked, "What about Mt. Hood?" The light bulb went off and I said yes..I can do that. I like to hike and I know there's an end to the hike. I can also see Mt. Hood every day so that can keep me motivated. We are going to sit down on Tuesday and he's going to help me with a plan to get in shape for the climb. Of course I'm going to have to learn how walk in crampons and save my ass from falling off the mountain using an axe but I'm looking forward to the challenge.

Now.............

Before you say I'm crazy and look at how many people die on Mt. Hood each year.. let me explain. Yes, I am a little crazy.. but that's a good thing. My parents have been to Mt. Everest twice and are going back in March so why can't I do Mt. Hood? Mom has all sorts of climbing gear I can use so that'll save me a few dollars. The people who die on Mt. Hood normally fuck up and don't take the proper precautions before they go. Ken knows a lot of good guides and responsible groups around here so I trust him... and I'll do my research of course. Ian isn't too pleased but that's expected. My mom is really excited. I am excited. I need something like this to remind me I can do it. Plus, it'll give me great upper body strength!

I'm just testing my ability to post pictures here....