To Micaela and Iz

I know you say, "don't let Mom pick the hike because it will involve a big hill" and you were once again proven correct with the Queen Charlotte Track that I did in fact pick. There were lots of big hills, both up and down, and 60 km was a long way to walk in three days, but the views proved to be stunning, brilliant, and unforgettable. And 60 km gave me a glimpse of the remarkable, strong women you are. So a great big thank you. Thank you for hanging in there with me and making me laugh and giving me a boost when I needed it. For singing "The Sound of Music" with me, for passing the time with questions, some thought provoking and some just plain ridiculous. For not hating me when I ask you to do something hard that stretches until it hurts and then stretches some more. For enduring kiwi style lunches and too nice dinners in resorts without cell service or TV. For putting your game face on and telling everyone that asked that you were enjoying the hike, when I knew you were not. For putting down your head and putting one foot in front of the other when faced with yet another hill to climb and for waiting patiently at the top for me to get there.

Love,
Mom