Today's the Day

I struggle with follow through.  I'm pretty good at setting goals, but struggle with doing what it takes to complete them.  I get part of the way there and stop.  Sometimes I even think that I actually sabotage myself. It's true. I think I feel safer somehow.

Earlier this year, I listed several things that I have wanted to accomplish in 2010.  I haven't made a lot of progress. One of the things on my list is "Hike to the M".  I live in Missoula, Montana and there is a lot of pride in our college, the University of Montana. There is so much pride that there is a giant "M" on the face of Mount Sentinel, just behind the college. Hiking up to that large white letter has become a rite of passage for anyone who lives here. It's 620 feet up the side of the mountain, and the only way to get there is by hiking a mile up a switchback trail.

 I've always wanted to hike it, but somehow when others were going, I would always have an excuse why I couldn't.  Last Saturday I woke up and decided that today was the day. Two of my kids went along to keep me company and offer moral support.  I don't think I would have made it without their encouragement and patience. Thank you Zach and Megan. You are both awesome!

They were so patient and encouraging!

You couldn't shortcut, even if you wanted to!

The view was awesome!

Whatever direction you looked

Three large bucks were enjoying the hillside, too!

They didn't seem to mind sharing the mountain.

We made it!

I heard a couple of women encouraging a friend along the way. They were telling her to just focus on taking one step at a time.  Good advice don't you think?