Thursday, February 26, 2015

Elk Mountain Accomplished

Ever wanted to crawl back into bed after one of those very early Saturday morning hockey practices?  I mean really, it was still dark outside anyways. 

After kind of making plans to get my courage to try the Elk Mountain hike, I felt I just simply had to do it.  I didn't even line up a trail buddy just 'cause I wanted the option to back out if I simply wasn't feeling motivated enough.

But for whatever reason, I had this amazing sense of ambition.  So, before that ambition left, off I went.  Water, ear buds, phone and a carb loaded bagel to get me off to a good start.  I know many think it's simply crazy to go out on the trails alone.  But... I knew that it was highly likely there wouldn't be others this early morning also prepared to climb the mountain.  

And sure enough.  It was an Asian Invasion! A whole crew of people were preparing their packs and armed with walking sticks, ready to climb up to one of the most beautiful mountain peaks in the Lower Mainland.  So,  just to feel like I was part of a crowd,  I set off with them.  See, I wasn't alone:)

But after slowly rounding a few corners, and I mean slowly, it was time to cut lose.  And off I went.  I am not sure what it was, but I was pumped to rock this climb.  And with Toby Mac music playing in my ears, I did rock it.  Right up to the top.

Only to discover: No View!  The clouds were all around me.  But, I truly did not care.  I still had a vision of the surrounding valley views in my head from the time I climbed this peak a few summers ago.  And with my heart pumping and my soul happy, I just imagined what was beyond the clouds.

After a few moments of peace, the peak started to get invaded by more climbers.  It was my cue to go.  And down the steep and slippery trail I went.  By the time I made it down to the bottom of the trail I had only lost one water-bottle over the side of the cliff and had mud half way up leg.  But all was awesome!  So looking forward to doing it again.  Very soon.  













Thursday, February 12, 2015

Perfection On Family Day Weekend

It was one of those kind of Sunday's.  Started with a great message from Pastor Matt and quickly followed with an impromptu plan to get outdoors with the family for a hike up Lyndeman.  And even more impromptu, was the invite to a family we didn't even know to join us.  I have seen the Friesen family on a weekly basis sitting just in front of or behind us every Sunday. And knew they have only been in Chilliwack for the past six months.  So, why not share the wonders of our little hillsides. 

It was hard to say what was the most rewarding.  The workout I got packing up a 30 pound bundle of cuteness, getting to know a lot more about a new family or the intense beauty of the Lake once we reached our final destination.  It  was all very good for my body, mind and soul. 

Peyton made me very proud.  She walked up the trail all on her own for the first time.  She has always been lucky to get a ride in my pack.  But with the addition of Ava, her time has come to an end.  But... she was pretty determined that she was not going to walk down.  Not this time anyways.

So, as persuasive as Peyton is, she convinced me to take her down.  And Jeremy, who had the empty pack going up, know had a rider for his very first time.  Yes, first time.  I'm the one that enjoys the extra workout and happily take on the extra weight challenge:)

So, an amazing day we had.  And looking forward to many more!
















Thursday, February 5, 2015

Four Going on Twelve

Wow, was I ever blasted by my little 4 year old spitfire, Peyton tonight.  I was in a bit of a rush, as per usual and I was tasked to quickly put on an episode of Barbie for the girls.  The TV wasn't co-operating with me, and in my impatience I told Peyton Netflix simply was not working.

Peytons hands reached out for the remote.  "Let me do it!  I'm 4 years old and know better than you how to make it work!"   I looked at her, or I should say glared at her and responded, "Fine, you do it!" with my own little snappiness. 

She takes the remotes and with a running commentary tells me exactly what she needs to do.  And Voila.  Barbie was on Netflix in only a few short moments.  A few thoughts went through my head.  Not totally polite of course.   I did just showed up by a four year old afterall.

 I have a very independant and bright girl on my hands and she knows way too much about electronics.  Could be a very good thing.  Or... I am in trouble:)