The opportunity to undertake this climb came at a time when I was feeling the need for an adventure - when I wanted a challenge that would force me out of my comfort zone. So here I am - climbing Kilimanjaro with a group of relative strangers, for a cause I had never heard of until a few months ago. My father’s reaction when I told him what I was doing was, “You know people die up there.” It was a statement, not a question and not particularly open for discussion. But my parents are accustomed to me doing things a bit differently and following my gut first.
Since that initial reaction, my Dad has been a huge supporter; boasting to all our friends and family about my undertaking. My emotional response to the whole thing has changed since I first said, “I want to do this.” Initially it was a selfish thing. I wanted an adventure. The more I learn about Power To Be, the more I feel that my gut response to the challenge was a perfect fit with what Power To Be is about. I wanted an adventure so I opened myself up to finding one. Simple. If only it was that easy for everyone. Power To be is setting out to do just that, and I think that is pretty admirable. I’m proud to be a small part of it.
The reality is that most of us are really busy. My story, while I own it and love it, is a pretty average story. I’m a single mom of a 15 year old son named Teigan. Oh geez teenagers- but that is a discussion for another day. My training for this climb must accommodate driving my son to sports practices and games, nagging him about studying and exams, feeding the plethora of teenagers that are always hanging around, an occasional manicure/pedicure (I didn’t say that I wasn’t my own worst enemy), Christmas shopping, time for family, and of course my demanding full time job. It’s a busy life. So when the heck am I supposed to fit training in? A coworker just swung by my office to suggest I get out to the Grouse Grind 3 times a week. Are you kidding? I have functions - work related and otherwise, and every night for the next 5 nights. And it’s not stuff I can get out of either. Ok, well I could skip the hockey game but how much sacrifice is reasonable here? I’m not complaining; I have the best life around.
So I think maybe “baby steps” is the answer, both here and on the mountain.
Thanks to Mike who took me shopping for my boots and some of my gear. MEC is overwhelming and it was great to have Mike walk me through what I needed, what I didn’t need, and what he and Chantal are bringing. I’m wearing my boots now with some serious, “no kidding around” socks. I’m not sure how much breaking in they’ll get here at the office, but it will all help I’m told.
My training is going to be somewhat limited to the gym. Besides, to quote Mike, I’m a big believer in being part of the “race to get to the top last”. My biggest fear, as most of my teammates know, is the altitude sickness. When our guides yell, “ Pole, Pole, Pole” (Slowly, slowly, slowly)they won’t be talking to me. I’m going at a snail’s pace if it helps keep that altitude sickness at bay.
Surprisingly, Teigan gave me a great hiking tip. As you take each step straighten your leg fully; it will allow your leg muscles to rest for a fraction of a second before you take the next step. It helps on long hikes. I tried it out and go figure, it really does make a difference. I guess they really do learn something in Outdoor Ed at school.
My next steps are to get the rest of my gear, train as much as possible, convince my Dad that people don’t really die up there, and get through the holidays as stress-free as possible. I’ll keep you updated. I’m sure I’m not the only member of the team feeling the crunch. I mean the time crunch - not the sit ups I did last night. Although those are making themselves known today too.
Jennifer
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