Tuesday, August 25, 2009

On High


After publishing three picture about last Saturday's hike near Bend, Oregon, I decided that it was time to test my stamina once again. I bought special hiking tennis shoes and poles and decided I would ascend to the summit of Mt Bachelor, which is pictured on Monday's and Saturday's posts. This photo, taken from a flat spot amidst a moonscape of volcanic rock, looks across at South Sister, my next quest. To tell you the truth, I became a little light-headed and felt tuckered out near the top. The air was thin and the steep path, strewn with rocks of various sizes, made walking difficult. By resting often, also out of necessity, I knew that eventually I'd reach the peak. Other than a few ravens spying me as potential carrion, this high place was barren, lonely and devoid of life. The view of course was majestic. Yesterday I spoke of why I hike mountains. Tonight, fatigued and sore, I realize that today's challenge affirmed my convictions. I feel healthier mentally and physically and more inspired by nature's brilliance.

6 comments:

Raksha said...

It's a breathtaking view, but you're starting to make me nervous. Take care of yourself, okay? There IS such a thing as overdoing it.

Small City Scenes said...

Interesting! MB

Stefan Jansson said...

Congrats. But be careful. I hope you bring a lot of water and something to eat on your treks.

Pat said...

Three words: Beau.Ti.Ful.

You have the admirable character quality of perseverance.

Lowell said...

I'm sure glad your healthier in all those ways. I'd probably be dead! I do like hiking, but not so far or high!

In other words, my funny, friend, neigh to that, too.

That's a gorgeous photo, though. Hmmm. Maybe hiking up a mountain wouldn't be all that bad.

Healthier, you say?

Hmmm...

cieldequimper said...

Again, nice words. But don't overdo it. I need my daily fix of Bend!