that was definitely the most challenging hike of the 48 and I couldn't have picked a better group to hike with
thanks to everyone for all the trailbreaking and unending spirit to get to the summit despite the conditions .... this is the hike that when it's done you say, wow, we really worked hard for that and it was worth it ... for me, it was another bonding experience, and another hike where I look around me and see the smiling faces of those that support my efforts and encourage me onward
it truly was a team effort and I feel so fortunate to have found a group of friends that don't think I'm soft in the head for doing this kind of stuff
I had a wonderful day and I hope everyone else did too
I'm sorry not to have made it to the RPP, it would have made a super end to an unbelievable day
I need to thank SherpaJohn for the copy of "48" which took a great amount of time and effort and it really shows, I enjoyed it very much.... yes, to the point of getting a little teary
Also, special thanks to Arm for the patch and certificate... and to Cath Goodwin for the note and bag of Snickers left for me at the top ... and to Peri for the champagne that she had waiting for me when I returned to the parking lot
I am so proud and lucky to have made the summit that day and I have all of you to thank for it ..... I couldn't have done it without you (literally!)
I'm thinking I may write up my 6 month adventure to complete the list, which BTW I never had any desire to do, but the more I hiked and the more great people I met, the more "the list" grew on me ..... now it's on to other lists
I hope that I will have the opportunity to hike with everyone again soon, possibly under less-adventurous conditions, but that wouldn't be any fun I guess, would it ?
what a day .... you guys are the best ... thank you so much for all your support and encouragement, and for one of the most memorable hikes I will ever have
