I don't really have a bucket list - but if I did hiking the Phoneline Trail in Tuscon, AZ would be near the top. Let me explain. My cousins (on Dad's side) live in Tuscon, AZ. For as long as I can remember we have been going to AZ to visit family. The last time I went was in 2008. The one and only hike I did, I remember being miserable. Looking back it probably was because I was incredibly overweight and completely out of shape. Anyway - my brother and Dad did the 9 mile Phoneline Trail, which is a hike into and out of Sabino Canyon in Tuscon, AZ....I stayed "with the girls" and went shopping instead. At the time it didn't think it bothered me, but looking back it bothered me immensely. I just wouldn't (maybe couldn't?) admit it to myself.
After seeing my weight loss success, Bob & Vicki invited me to AZ specifically to hike the Phoneline Trail. I immediately started making plans, that's when I started realizing how much starting and finishing that hike would mean to me. It was something that wasn't even an option a few years ago because of my health. Completing this hike through the desert has been my goal ever since.
I have to admit that I was nervous I wouldn't be able to finish it. First of all I am not a quiet person, I've told EVERYONE my goal, and what if I let everyone down? Most importantly I was scared I would let myself down. However, *dramatic drum roll please* I DID IT!! We finished the 9 mile hike in about 6 hours. I proved so much to myself, I don't know if it has even all sunk in yet.
So here we go, things I have learned by hiking 6 hours through the desert...
1. I am in no way shape or form the same girl I used to be...and that's ok.
2. All those hours at Punch Gym have really paid off!!!
3. I can do anything I set my mind to.
4. As long as you keep putting one step in front of the other you will eventually reach your goal.
5. Band-aids are super important to remember on long hikes!
6. Nature is beautiful.
7. Drink water, and then drink more water.
8. Nothing is as humbling as having a 70s-ish year old couple blow by you on the trail.
9. I need to really work on my cardio endurance.
10. Mental strength is just as important as physical strength.
One amazing unexpected gift was a disc of pictures that Bob has taken over the years (THANKS BOB!!). Looking back to the last time I was in AZ I literally started crying. I don't remember ever looking like I do in the pictures. I went through such a broad range of emotions from shock, anger and disbelief eventually to happiness and pride at how far I've come.
I've come such a long way, but I will be the first to admit I have a long way to go. I think this vacation has given me the inspiration and breath of fresh air that I needed to re-charge and remind myself to keep pluggin along. Reflecting on the past has always been the best motivation for me.
Hope everyone has been enjoying the mild winter, and I'm personally praying that spring/summer/sunshine comes sooner rather than later =)
"Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go."
-- T.S. Eliot
-- T.S. Eliot
