The tops of mountains...

I went on an awesome journey this weekend. I realize as I write that how very inadequate my words are. I throw out the words 'awesome' and 'amazing' all the time as though everything I do and every day I live is somehow the greatest thing EVER and everyone else is just getting by while I have a grand, adventurous life. 

Truth? My sudden decision to move to New England seemed quick and wild and daring to many people... But it was something I had been praying about for a long long time. It just came together fast. Living in Massachusetts gives me opportunities to climb big mountains and experience crazy new things in the city... But it's not always easy and fun and sometimes I am frustrated and angry with myself. My life isn't all adventures and excitement... But I NEVER fall asleep at night without remembering why I am so very blessed and thankful for the opportunities I have. 

I say those things because they are TRUE, but also because I am now going to tell you about my ridiculous weekend! Lucky you!

Original plan: drive to New Hampshire (like 2 1/2 hours) and hike the Pemi Loop (I THINK that is what it is called!). This would be about 32 miles over about 10 4,000 ft peaks from Saturday afternoon until Monday afternoon.

The reality: It was COLD, those mountains are HIGH, and my legs aren't used to lugging me and my big old pack up mountains anymore. Sure we climbed Mt. Moosilauke a few weeks ago but that was with a single daypack between us and 3.5 miles up and then 3.5 down to a warm car and rest for the feets. This weekend? 20+ pound pack (I really don't know, that's a guess...) and 3 days. MY FAVE!! Seriously.

So, cloudy summits day one and tough climbs to the ridge, stealth camp at something like 3500 ft meant COLD winds all night, BUT a BEAUTIFUL (but cold and windy) day across the Franconia Ridge and AMAZING views that I didn't get to see when I passed thru on the AT last time. Then? Sitting atop Mt. Garfield and deciding to head into the valley rather than over 4 more mountains. 

Was it what we planned? Nope. It was better in some ways! And those mountains have apparently been there a while and aren't going anywhere so I'll go back sometime. :) in the end, 25 miles, 6 4000 ft peaks, a little less than 48 hours... and no blisters! Success!!

A great adventure... New adventures coming soon. I am blessed. 

Oh, and here's the view from the Franconia Ridge!