Anniversary

 One year ago this week I began my journey to get fit both mentally and physically to take on the challenge of hiking to the Everest Base Camp. It has been a journey of ups and downs. Physically, mentally, and on the trails. I am still facing those challenges, but I am so much stronger than I was. I am not yet to where I wanted to be physically. The setbacks with knee pain has been an ongoing issue. It does seem to be improving, but the twinges are still there at times. I have learned to always wear a knee brace when working out or hiking. Mentally, I still struggle with the doubting demons. Am I too old? Am I just too weak? Can I mentally cope with the challenge? Will I ever get fit enough to tackle the altitude and inclines that I would face? But all I have to do is look at the photos and read about the journey from those that have been there or are currently there hiking. Damn it is just amazing to see. BEAUTIFUL! I want to be there. So I will keep working towards my goal. I am not ready to quit. 

I do realize now that I need to step up (no pun intended) my workouts. I think a gym membership is on the horizon to keep me motivated through the long summer ahead. I am already planning my next trip for early Autumn. I am thinking of three days camping and hiking in one of the State parks in Colorado, and then a quick hike at Garden of the Gods and the Manitou Incline before heading home. The Manitou Incline will be my big challenge. I am thinking if I can complete it in a reasonable amount of time I feel a bit more confident about the possibility of taking on the challenge of the four day Inca trail trek, I just need to get through the summer unscathed and in better shape than I currently am. 

So where am I at currently? I am still doing the same Yoga routine that I started with a year ago. I just really like it and it doesn't take too long to complete so I can do it most mornings before work. I do the stair -stepper four to five mornings a week and seem to be stuck between 150/300 and 200/400. My goal had been to be to 300/600 by now. I continue to eat a much healthier diet with very little meat and limited dairy and animal products. I have lost five pounds in the past few months and feel healthier than I have in years. Mentally I am doing better, but I still have those days where I doubt my ability. I am however living more mindfully and in the present moment. I read the teaching of Zen Buddhist master Thich Nhat Han which has influenced how I live and want to live my life. His teachings have calmed my soul and left me happier with the life I have lived and hope to live. 

I look forward to the year and the challenges ahead. What will I see as I look back on these posts as the months move forward. I dream of the days to come and reflect on the days past. I live only in this moment.