It's all about the milestones at this point

While preparing for my greatest physical outdoor challenge yet, I feel a great sense of accomplishment by completing goals set to help me prepare for my June Kilimanjaro hike.

Last month I completed my first run ever. I never attempted a race because I either didn't think I could do it or I was simply too lazy. After running a 6K last month to raise money for the global water crisis -- without stopping -- I felt pretty good, and was happy that my time didn't suck :) While it wasn't intentional, it was also fitting that I supported the same cause as Jessica Biel and team who recently climbed Kilimanjaro to support the same cause.

With one accomplishment under my belt, it was time to turn to the next challenge -- a four hour hike.

Since I have been running 3 miles, three times a week, I thought I would be able to do this with no problem.

I now understand the merits of 'cross training'.

Hiking a steep incline with a backpack uses a completely different set of muscle groups as running. So much so, that at one point during the hike, I turned to my friend to comment, "This is hard."

The following day I felt an intense pain in the back of my leg, reminding me that - stretching is important, regardless of the type of exercise.

With only 40 days left before my big departure, I sometimes wonder if I'll be ready by June 11th. But, if I think about how far I have already come and that Lao-tzu noted that, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step" -- I may be okay.