Mt. Whitney

Those of you that know me are aware I have been on a year long journey to create and live a healthy lifestyle. It has not been easy to end old habits, learn to limit the foods I love (and there is very little food I don't love) and actually use my gym membership and exercise. Over the past year I have lost 63 lbs., lowered my cholesterol to 146, my triglycerides to 67 and my resting heart beat to 48 - all at almost 54 years of age. A year ago, I didn't believe it possible. But taking it one day at a time and never letting the bad days end my efforts, as they did before, I am almost to my goal of a healthy BMI - 12 more pounds. To celebrate my anniversary of a new life, I obtained a permit to hike to the top of Mt. Whitney, California - the highest spot in the lower 48 states. Imagine going from a coach potato to climbing to the top of a mountain!! I have no idea if I will make it, especially as I was only able to get a one day permit, but I am going to give it my best shot. In addition, I am participating in the Washington Trail Association Hike-a-thon and my miles on Mt. Whitney will count towards raising monies to repair the storm damage to Washington trails that occured last fall. A worthy charity since the National Park Systems budget is set to be slashed again this year (if you are interested in donating please let me know) So please send me good thoughts on August 21 as I head to the top of the mountain. I will need all the support I can get.