Kilimanjaro is much more than a mountain - it's a complete overhaul of my life!
OK, let's go.... It's already just over a year since I said "Yes" to this project, this "trip" of a lifetime. Between Christmas 2010 and New Year's, I happened to glance at our notice board and saw André's invitation "Who wants to go climb Kilimanjaro?" Without a moment's hesitation, I wrote "I DO"!!!
Why? Well, why not?
We've only one life and it's already much too short for me so, whenever an opportunity like this comes along, I jump at it. Especially on this scale. Routine just isn't my thing - spontaneity lets us live wonderful experiences and outdo ourselves. I love being active, being with people, supporting good causes, helping others and meeting challenges. Kili is all that and more. Just getting to September 3rd - Day K, is a mountain in itself, a complete change of life-style. Getting fit, planning funds, getting vaccinations, learning trekking techniques, preparing mentally for the ascent and so on and so on......
Do I regret my decision? Not on your life!
First of all, I've met such amazing and passionate people. Team Kili is a tightly knit little family - extremely important for the 10-day ascent when we'll be going through all sorts of feelings and needing encouragement and moral support from each other. In each activity like training or having a meal together, we talk a lot of nonsense and have a lot of fun. We end up laughing till we cry which is the best way of relaxing, not to mention giving our abs a good workout!!!
The team's commitment to giving time and volunteering for several good causes is our way to do our part in helping those in need. It also helps us to realize how much we have, to appreciate it and to live fully in the moment.
I, for one, am longing to see what this adventure has in store for me and I promise to make the most of it.
Catherine
Translated by Pamela Gauvin
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