Hiking.

I had what my good friend, Oprah, would call an "aha moment" this weekend.  While hiking with my husband, I said aloud to him, "Isn't hiking kind of dumb?"

Andy's response; "Amanda, are you being serious right now?"

Amanda; "Well, we're just walking around.  Wouldn't it be nice if there was some gold at the end?  Or a giant cheesecake?"

Andy; "Amanda, I think it's more about the journey, not the destination.  Take in your surroundings and clear your mind."

Ok.  So, I tried.  But there was a nagging feeling inside me that it would be a lot more productive if we could just run this course.  And then it came.  The "aha moment."  This is a little how I live my life.  I tend to jump to the destination.  I'd much prefer running quickly to get where I'm going even when I'm not experienced enough on the terrain.  And finally, I prefer to imagine a giant cheesecake at all my destinations. 

But, there was no cheesecake at the end - there was the highest point in Portland and awesome views - but no cheesecake.  We "discovered" Council Crest at the end of our excursion this weekend (among other things).  Take a look for yourself.  I think it was worth it.  And I think I could be convinced to like hiking if I keep experiencing these Oprah moments!  But a little cheesecake (or gold) would never hurt!

CHEERS!