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I turned 50 this year, a milestone I am still trying to get my mind around. I've never been one to bemoan the process of aging, in fact, I think I've generally embraced it. But 50 is a significant mile marker along one's path, so told my brother Jim I wanted to do something memorable to mark this year.
Next Saturday night, we'll climb into a van with my son Daniel, and 5 others and head west. Our destination is Bozman, Montana. From there, we'll embark on a 5 day backcountry hiking trip along the Gallatin Crest in Yellowstone National Park. We've been doing some moderate hiking up to the top of Pilot Mountain here in NC every weekend for the past month, but I'll confess to being a little nervous about being able to handle the strenuous route we'll be on for the duration. I would characterize myself as being in decent shape for my years, but I'm missing a third of one lung and had damage to my diaphragm that makes it tougher for me to handle aerobic stress.
On the plus side, I've got 10 years worth of pain and suffering as a Marine Infantryman to help me hang in there. Our guide tells us the temperature swings in the area we'll be traversing run from the 40's to 80's, but I'm going to try hard to pack as light as possible. Physical concerns aside, I am extremely excited to see a part of the US I've never seen and even for the lengthy drive to/from. Sharing the experience with my 15 year old son and other family members will make this a special trip.
I'll expect you guys to give me a full report on the pre-season games I'll miss while I'm gone. And think good thoughts for me. I should have some great pictures to share when I get back.
Next Saturday night, we'll climb into a van with my son Daniel, and 5 others and head west. Our destination is Bozman, Montana. From there, we'll embark on a 5 day backcountry hiking trip along the Gallatin Crest in Yellowstone National Park. We've been doing some moderate hiking up to the top of Pilot Mountain here in NC every weekend for the past month, but I'll confess to being a little nervous about being able to handle the strenuous route we'll be on for the duration. I would characterize myself as being in decent shape for my years, but I'm missing a third of one lung and had damage to my diaphragm that makes it tougher for me to handle aerobic stress.
On the plus side, I've got 10 years worth of pain and suffering as a Marine Infantryman to help me hang in there. Our guide tells us the temperature swings in the area we'll be traversing run from the 40's to 80's, but I'm going to try hard to pack as light as possible. Physical concerns aside, I am extremely excited to see a part of the US I've never seen and even for the lengthy drive to/from. Sharing the experience with my 15 year old son and other family members will make this a special trip.
I'll expect you guys to give me a full report on the pre-season games I'll miss while I'm gone. And think good thoughts for me. I should have some great pictures to share when I get back.
