“I began to realize how important it is to be an enthusiast in life. If you are interested in something, no matter what it is, go at it full speed, embrace it with both arms, hug it, love it, and above all become passionate about it. Lukewarm is no good!” – Roald Dahl
I couldn’t think of a
better reason to embrace this challenge.
Hug the mountain! Literally
at some point…
Wednesday July 1st
2015 – Support is key!
It’s
my last day at work before I’ll be going on the big adventure. It being an
adventure is evident from the heartwarming support I get from friends, family
and colleagues: from a pat on the shoulder till hugs, good-luck-charms,
chocolate hidden in my bag and got-me-to-tears postcards. I’m overwhelmed!
Thursday July 2nd
– Saturday July 4th – Do I need a bigger bag?
Stressing out over
packing!! I can honestly say I’ve studied the gear checklist, provided by
Mountain Network, to the best of my abilities. Check-check-double-check. I gather
all required, and some more, clothing plus everything I suppose might be
convenient at some point during the trip. From soap-without-water till (nail)scissors
and from a bathing suit (you never know ;)) till a sleeping mask. I rented most
of the wind- and waterproof clothing from Mountain Network, along with all the
technical gear like the pickel, crampons and gaiters. The last few days before
heading full speed into this adventure I stay over at my parents house for some
pampering. On Saturday I head to the store to buy me some pack-food; snickers,
granola bars and chocolate. Because you
turn into a right diva when you’re hungry.
Everything fits in the
bags. Yet another thing I need not to worry about. Ready to Rock!
Sunday July 5th 2015
– Dinner with a view!
I’m
travelling to Chamonix with fellow expedition members Bart and Y. They left home at around 8 am and pick me up
near the highway, where my mum, dad and sister Chelsi dropped me off and will
be waiving me goodbye. It’s on! Did I pack everything that was on the list? Did
I train enough? What’s the weather like on the mountain? What the hell was I
thinking taking on this challenge? A number of questions that pop into my
mind at some point along the way, but vanish once we approach our destination
and have a first glance of Mont Blanc. This is what brought me here!
Yay,
almost there!