Blaze

Layers. Super socks. Not the cotton tank top. Wicking fabric. Hat. Long sleeves. It was our first hike of the year and 7 months since the last one. Compare this to 14+ hikes in 2005. In fact, my first date with wannabe dad was a hike back in April 2003.

I love hiking. It's more than being out in nature, maneuvering the cow poo, avoiding ticks and poison oak, taking in the scenery. It's about moving to your rhythm, being equals with your hiking partners, challenging yourself each step of the way. It's about not getting blisters, bringing enough water, a walking-while-snacking smorgasbord, being covered in dust, getting drenched with sweat, and rewarding yourself with a big beer at the end. Sure, the views are beautiful, but the camaraderie and conversation trump light filtering through forest fog.

We have made friendships on the trails. There are friends and there are hiking friends. Hiking friends are those who move away but are motivated to return for a hike with the gang. It's not a mere hike by definition, but a revelation. We catch up when we catch up. We are moved while we move. Secrets are revealed and locked up again. Casual acquaintances are made close. In our case, friends become wife and husband.

We'll blaze many a trail in 2007 with our hiking friends. We will try to mend the holes in our hearts where our daughters should be, and luckily, we'll have help along the way.