Sunday

Lets Climb a Steep Hill

Finally, Jane said we were on our way back. The more energetic amongst us could go up to the top of the highest hill with Christophe to get a good overview of what we had been mapping. The less adventurous could walk back the low way. Although not particularly adventurous, I decided to climb the hill with Christophe in order to warm up. Both Carolynn and Alex decided to walk along the bottom with Jane and some of the others. I almost changed my mind as I hate being the slowest in a group, but I figured that if I ended up lagging behind then they would just have to wait for me. As things turned out, I didn't get left behind. I have a feeling that one or two of the group hung around and walked up behind me just to make sure, which was kind. Despite the appalling weather, I was beginning to feel more comfortable with these people. Maybe going through hell at Hillbeck generates some sort of bond.

At the top of the hill, the view was wonderful. There was sun shining in the distance and visibility was clearing. It was still awfully windy. If we stood upwind of Christophe, we couldn't hear what he was saying no matter how close we stood. Afterwards the other group asked us what was going on. Christophe was shouting so loudly that his voice was being carried by the wind down to the other group who thought he was calling to them for some reason.