Just when I had announced to the world, as if the world cared, that I would be climbing Mount Monadnock on May 23rd, my oldest son informed me that he has a very important track meet that day. So, barring any unforseen disasters like the Swine Flu, we are rescheduling for Sunday, May 31.

This past weekend I hiked in the Blue Hills with my youngest son and his Boy Scout Troop. We covered 3.5 miles including 4 steep hills. My son carried a full backpack with sleeping bag, cook stove, ground pad, tent, food and water, which meant he couldn’t also carry me despite my repeated requests. So I had to manage on my own. Kids today. So much for respecting one’s elders. 

Overall, I felt great.  I had no problems with hiking boots or back pain, so I am feeling confident with just over a month to go. The biggest problem for me was the heat, as it hit the mid-eighties in the afternoon. Depending on the forecast May 31, I may have to start very early to avoid the mid-day temperatures.

Later this week I will be getting a notice out to virtually every person I know asking for sponsorship for this hike, so that I have the added incentive of losing more weight and helping to raise money for the nursing home. Besides, there’s nothing like more pressure! There’s not enough of that going around these days!