Every Journey

For a long time now, I have wanted to climb one of the following peaks: Kilimanjaro, Elbrus or Aconcagua, three of the Seven Summits. None of these peaks require a high degree of climbing skill, just a lot of determination and, hopefully, a resistance to high altitude sickness.

Now, in my current state of physical fitness, I'd have a hard time looking at Kilimanjaro without feeling weak, but that doesn't deter me from trying to get into mountain-conquering shape. This past weekend, I started my journey to the top of the world by climbing Lynn Peak, just north of Vancouver.

The map at the base of the trail made it look pretty easy, but it was a tough, steep climb at times. The view at the top was absolutely incredible and worth the agony I put my jello-legs through.

On the way down, though, I pulled my right calf muscle. I'm fine when walking on level terrain, but as soon as I try to go up or down any slope or stairs....well, hand over the Bufferin.

Kilimanjaro might have to wait a while.