Countdown to hiking Mt. Whitney 2011

58 days until I begin my five-day trek to the highest point in the contiguous United States-Mt. Whitney (14,505ft). I'm taking this trek alone but with a team of other experienced hikers whom I have yet to meet. The motivation is simple-to breakthrough what may appear to be a limit-physical and mental. I suppose I'm a natural adventurer of sorts, seeking new challenges in most facets of my daily life. My fascination with hiking began in the summer of 2007 when I flew to Peru alone to hike the Inca trail and summit Dead Woman's Pass (13,650ft) the highest apex along the 42km trail. I had never been to S. America and spent almost a year in research and preparation for this adventure. Peru is a beautiful country and the people, through my experience, are hospitable and welcoming. I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to travel and experience its unique culture.


 I boarded a plane destined to a country still riveting in chaos from an 8.0magnitude earthquake off the central Peruvian coast. This sudden violent tremor wrecked havoc on its people and cities just a few days beforehand. In spite of numerous pleadings from friends and family members to postpone my vacation, I remained steadfast and committed to my plans. The experience taught me a most valuable lesson-life is full of risks and a life well-lived is one that that takes risks in a calculated, thoughtful approach but with an open mind nonetheless. As I spent days along the trek, my body aching from fatigue, elevation, and constant trekking, I became acutely aware of the realization that limitations one perceives are more mental than physical, and with the right mental approach and training, almost anything can be accomplished. Trusting your judgment is paramount. As an American born woman of Greco-Lebanese ethnic heritage, this insight is profound for me.


So with that understanding, I continue my training for Mt. Whitney. Today's physical regimen centered on building my cardiovascular strength. One hour on the elliptical machine with varying resistances/speeds. Another hour spent running on the treadmill with an uphill incline. Tomorrow morning, its weight training and a day hike.



Until then

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