Climb Every Mountain..but don't wear shorts..

I am so proud of myself. I am trying so many new things and facing every challenge that comes my way here. I have branched out from my cheeseburger plain and eaten foods I couldn't even put a name to-- nor tell what they were composed of. Today I faced a new challenge. I climbed the mountain that is across from our hotel. Mountain climbing seems to bring out the amnesia symptoms in me. Each adrenaline-pumping, near-death experience quickly escapes my mind just in time for me to try it again. This summer, for example, I hiked in the Ozarks with my youth group. I forgot the horror just in time to eagerly agree to go with some friends today.

It started out with a steep climb up a paved road. I was breathing a little heavy, but my optimism was still beaming across my face. Then, the actual mountain hit and the thorns that were included free of charge. I have never seen so many thorn bushes in all my life. They were all different shapes, sizes, colors-- some actually kind of attractive until they tore into my poor legs. Dearest Tommy tried to tell me to change into long pants, but I-- the mountain climbing expert-- decided I wanted to make a fashion statement and wear my cute brown shorts. I won't be wearing them for quite a while since my once marvelous Jergen's Body glow-tanned legs now sport cuts and scrapes. Haha.

It was so gratifying to get to the top and realize the feat you just accomplished. You could see all over Athens from the top-- it was breathtaking. By the time we got to the top though, a few pictures were all we had time for in order to get back before dark and in time for dinner. We made it thanks to the bravery of Nic Wildman and the helpfulness of a few Greek boys. Nic was the only guy and helped many of the womenfolk down the mountain. He would help support our back or legs and would apologize for touching us. Danielle (who cracks me up) goes, "Nic, I don't care where you touch me or what you do- just get me off this mountain!" When we lost our way, a few Greek boys helped us find our way down the rest of the way and led us to our hotel. It's a good thing "thank you" is about the only Greek word we've learned and we shouted "Efaristo!" many many times!

Even though I am about to die of soreness, a few of them wanted me to play basketball..so we'll see if I can make it one trip down the court. Then, I'll do some homework..I promise..

I forgot to mention yesterday that I bought this cool ring and got some handmade sandals yesterday at the Plaka. Love em!