I MADE IT

So I finished the Queen Charlotte track 2 days ago and I am still in pain. Some advice: never ever hike a 2 day 33k trail in brand new hiking boots. In fact, you probably shouldn't even try it in worn in hiking boots, unless you are sure you're up to the challenge. It was so intense. The first day we went 12 kilometres (we were supposed to go about 20 but it was getting too dark by the time we got to the checkpoint, so we took a boat the rest of the way to our hostel). That took us about 4 1/2 hours, which is actually a really long time, but we stopped to take pictures of the amazing views. We were in the Marlboro Sounds which is on the northern tip of the South Island - basically mountains surrounded by bays and coves; it was really beautiful. That first day wasn't so hard. The second day pushed my body to its limit. It's really amazing what the human body can do even when your mind thinks it can't. We went 21 kilometres that second day. I've never walked that far before, let alone hiked through mountains. Not only was the distance difficult, but we also had a boat to catch at 4:00, so we had to book it the whole way. That last 5k was really difficult; everything hurt. My right foot was having some serious problems - my achilles was bruised and swollen (still is), I stubbed my big toe really bad (it is now purple and the toenail is raised), and every muscle was on fire. I still walk with a limp. It kinda goes like this: step [ouch] step [oohh] step [sweet mercy] step [ow] step... But when I got to the wharf at the end it was so worth it. I hiked 33k in two days through the wilderness of New Zealand. Talk about an adventure. I never thought I would be able to do that. Although I was pretty miserable in the end, I know I would still do it even if I knew the pain I was going to be going through.

I remember towards the middle of the hike the second day I was walking alone (the group split up as the hike went on) and I was on a somewhat straight path (relief) overlooking the coast. Talk about some amazing God time. It was just me and Him and this beautiful paradise that He had made. I was talking to him, and at one point I was seriously thinking I wasn't going to make it. Then I saw the most beautiful rainbow I have ever seen and I remembered how it symbolized a promise. Right then he promised me that I would make it. And guess what? I did. And with two hours to spare. It only took me a little over six hours and I was expecting it to take about eight.

We're supposed to go on another hiking/kayaking trip tomorrow or the next day. I think it's about 15k. What have I gotten myself into? I should be a healthy beast by the time I get back.

November 14th. Thats when I get back. Such a long time. I miss you guys so much. I'm thinking 4 1/2 months is a little too long. I would be fine coming abck in another couple of weeks, but I have 2 1/2 more months to go. Such a long time!

How is the first week of school going? Talk to me!