Hike to Top of Mt. Minsi

     Leigh Ann and I have set this hike for what seems like an eternity.  Someone wasn't feeling well or was busy or it was too hot or too cold.  This time we weren't taking the way out but the way up and boy were we challenged.
     We picked a sunny, autumn day on a (finally open) weekend and headed for the trail.  A drop fell on us but with a clear forecast and a blue sky we felt it was safe.  Then the skies opened upon us. Heavier and heavier the rains got as we climbed slippery rocks and leaf covered paths to the pinnacle.  There was a boy scout troop and many other hikers to play leapfrog with as we passed and fell behind them over and over.  Did I mention we were doing this after a seven day fast on just liquid?  So there we were soaked, chilly and starving (and very, very out of shape(me, not Leigh Ann)) climbing up a packed trail.  There was thunder and a quick lesson on the scatter technique to be used should we see lightning.  There were pauses to catch breath.  Others,  to rest fatigued calves.  Some just to look at the view.  There was even a help up and over one of the big rocks as Leigh Ann's hand was the fifth force to move me to the top.  (Two arms and two legs weren't doing the job).  There was much gabbing about my big trip to the psychic as well as all of the topics two girls can cover in a four hour trek up and down a mountain.   At the top, the sunshine greeted me as a kind little reward for the work.  The view was magnificent.  The way down was still challenging with slippery slopes and major inclines full of salamanders and a chill from our soaked clothing but the mood stayed up the whole time.  We were two chicks on a mission.  This hike cleared my head, moved my body, nurtured my soul and completed a goal.  It was a helluva workout, a heaping helping of therapy, a dash of adventure and a whole lot of laughter.   I felt different as we parted ways on the walk home.  I also got to use the sunglasses perched atop my head the entire time as if they symbolized the hope I always have that it will, indeed, get brighter.  I walked with the sunshine peering through a cloud right at me with such brilliance I could barely see.  It was a message of the symbolism of the hike that I was sure to accept.  A week of cleansing and hike to follow made me feel stronger than I had in a long time.  It will get brighter when the work is complete. 
     I have thanked her many times but I have to say once more... THANK YOU, Leigh Ann,  for the push, the support and the friendship and the truly unique role that you have in my life.