When I got the facebook message from my cousin Shelli asking my sister and me if we would like to do a post Thanksgiving hike I got really excited! Even though Shell only lives across town we normally only see eachother at major family gatherings…as in she has a party and invites me. So sad, I know. Especially considering I practically lived with her nearly every Summer of high school babysitting her kids. Oh the memories.

The excitement quickly wore off when I remembered how many hiking photos of herself she’s been posting on facebook lately. She’s a hiking fool and in fantastic shape. Pair that with how out of shape I am and fear set in.

The excitement came back as we neared Thanksgiving and made the final plans. A post-turkey-coma hike the morning of “Black Friday” because heaven knows there was no was I was going to wake up early enough to brave the crowds and shop…oh that and we could all stand to burn a few extra calories the day after Thanksgiving!

The morning was chilly, but nothing unbearable. Since all the crazy people were out shopping, the trail was nice and quiet. We had a great time chatting and catching up. I even made it the whole way to the top without stopping! We wrapped up the morning with Starbucks in our hands.

Plans have already been made to make the hike again just before Christmas when my sister Kelli is in town from Chicago. {Oh, Sis, by the way…the morning of Christmas Eve we’re going to go on a hike.}

Ladies and gentleman, I think it’s safe to say a new tradition has been born.