The third step is helping others that have the same compulsions...

To be honest, this is how the Real Chicks got started. After climbing Kilimanjaro and feeling invincible, I wanted to make every woman feel the same way in the outdoors. Losing the group that was created out of that idea has left a gaping hole in my spirit. It has become obvious that I NEED to have like-minded women in my life. Guiding a monthly hike strengthened my desire to be better at it. It forced me to get up, even if once a month, and enjoy nature in a new way.

Since the March Real Chicks trip, I have been approached by several staff members at the Y about starting a hiking group here. At first thought, I adore the idea. Upon further reflection, it scares the crap out of me. In Omaha, I knew the trails, I knew the drives to trail heads, the mileage, the duration and the people. I trusted those I was with and they trusted me to guide them in their Saturday adventure. My competency in guiding is something I take very seriously.
Have you ever been on a hike with a less than prepared hike master? Everyone senses the stress, the pressure. As a hiker, you worry that if you fall, this person won't have the skill to help. I've been on hikes where I genuinely felt our leader had no idea where they were taking us. I worry that here in Colorado, I would be this person. There are SO many trails to learn! And most people who live here are really skilled, making me feel like I have to step up even more to be a good hike leader. It's not so much that I feel the need to be perfect. I will just have to humble myself...probably often. Perhaps be more of a hike organizer, than a leader. As a side note, skill development is a major reason I moved here. I felt I had exhausted many of my resources back home and needed a place where I could be the student more often.

So, I'm thinking of organizing a women's hike. In Colorado. Just as in Omaha, there may only be 5 of us on the first one but I am hopeful that in starting it, I can help foster healthy living for myself, as well as to other women in the valley.

Wish me luck.