As May approaches, we find ourselves less than three months away from our summit attempt. While exhaustion and anxiety are byproducts of our training and anticipation, we realize now more than ever that all the hard work is paying off.McClellen Butte, Mailbox Peak, Mt. Pilchuck… there are so many fantastic trails here in the Northwest, but due to avalanche danger, snow drifts, and poor trail conditions we have been unable to climb them. Warmer weather conditions can’t come soon enough- so until then, we hike Si...
Two weeks ago, we went to Mt. Si without any goals other than to summit. As we climbed we realized that we were keeping a record pace. So…we climber faster, we climbed with more direction, we climbed with focus. Another couple in front of kept this ideal speed until mile 2.5 when they ask us to pass them. I mentioned to them that they had kept a perfect pace for us. With sweat dripping down their brow they said they’d love for us to now pace them. We took the challenge and by mile three our legs were burning, heart racing, and determination pressing ever more. At the summit we looked at the clock… 1:55. We made it in less than two hours with 20+ lbs on our backs. A goal we have had set for ourselves since February. We did it!
The couple behind us ascended shortly after. They thanked us for pacing them and we responded with a like sentiment. It turns out that they too are training for Rainier. After a quick snack, we made our way back down and left the mountain proud and accomplished.
This past weekend, we met with the CFCA team to hike *surprise* Mt. Si. (I cannot wait to cease training on this mountain!) The weather was far from ideal, but the rain couldn't dampen our spirits. Around mile 3 the rain turned to snow and before we knew it was passed into a winter wonderland. It really was quite magical. The summit was much colder than it had been the week prior and we had to make sure to put on some warmer layers and break for a shorter period of
time. My friend Brett was nice enough to lend me his outer shell as my fleece wasn’t keeping me warm enough. I did look like a big blue snow monster, but at least I was a warm one. 
It was the last hike before we start training on the real mountain… Rainier. Starting in two weeks, we begin our training at Pebble Creek and Muir. We are feeling stronger and much more physically ready to attempt this climb in July. Aside from the physical preparedness, we are also making progress in the other aspects of preparations for this climb. Our gear list is over ten pages… baselayers, soft shells, outer shells, light gloves, medium gloves, heavy weight gloves, sun protections, wind protections, food, etc… but we are slowly whittling it down and getting ready to train and summit with this gear.
We have now raised $5,522.00! We are only $1,478 away from our financial minimum set by the ALA to do this climb. We are so close!
My brother, Dustin and his wife Bekah, have graciously donated two tickets to the Mariners! The game is Sunday June 20th at 1:10pm. The seats are right behind Ichiro and can be yours! EVERY donation through May 30th will be entered to win these tickets. Thank you Dustin and Bekah!
Thank you to everyone for your continual support. There’s just no way we could do it without you.
♥k&m
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