The Climb

You see that cross on top of that plateau???  That is my destination. 

I have added this kick-ass hike to my workout routine to shake it up.  I usually do cardio six days a week, alternating running and eliptical during the week and then a longer outside run on Saturdays.  I also aim to do weights at least three times a week.  Now I have added this little gem in the mix on Sunday mornings.  I intend to add it a few more times a week in the afternoon once I get off work, heat permitting.   Yesterday somehow only reached the high 80s so I came home form work, had a quick dinner and hit the trail.  The trail I took is approximately 1.65 miles up.  

The trail head to Table Rock is behind the Old Idaho State Penitentiary, which is supposed to be one of the most haunted places in Boise.  As you start to climb, the trail winds along the hill and you can see into the old prison yards.  (Back in the old days, people climbed up here with picnic baskets to watch prisoners be executed.)

I remember touring it in elementary school, it was creepy.   I think I might go again sometime, just for shits and giggles.

As I headed uphill, I thought about where I am and where I have been.  I thought about my displeasure at living in this town and reminded myself of my goal to look to the positive side of things while I am here. I thought about that moment three years ago when I arrived in Miami in a U-haul towing my car with no job, no house, and without knowing anyone.  Quite a bit has changed since then, and for the better.  I have learned and experienced so much, and that fearless drive, that will has just intensified.  Damned this town to hell if it thinks it thinks it will hold me down!  Boise has nothing on me!

Halfway up and getting closer!!

As trite and as cheesy as it sounds, I needed something to refocus me and this hike did just that.  It is my both my figurative and literal mountain to climb.  It worked my body and my mind.  Draw any parallel to struggle you like. This town won't win. I won't lose myself here like I have in the past.  Onward and upward!!

At the top. (You have to touch the cross to officially conquer the climb.)

I find inspiration on this climb and its so refreshing!  I run the trail back down to keep my heart rate up and engage my leg muscles more intensely.  On the way home, I decided to pop into the Co-op (which is the closest thing this town has to Whole Foods) and I found my coveted Pommegranite Chobani!!   I bought the last three on the shelf! SCORE!!

PAB:  The drive down Warm Springs Ave on the way to the trail head. GORGEOUS.

Keep climbing! xox