Beauty on the Mountaintop

(Posted originally in 2014!!) Monday, I went on a hike accompanied by my host father, sister, her two cousins, and their father. It was a lot of fun. And though we walked for what seemed like forever, we only walked 7 km. This mountain was extremely steep and had a lot of steps. It was also very beautiful and well worth the trek. At the top are breathtaking views of the surrounding area, and it wasn't just the wind taking your gasp of breath away. Though we had a few breaks walking up and down the mountain, we were all very winded walking up and up all the steep stairs. I was also pretty worried I wouldn't be able to keep up, but I was both surprised and happy that I kept a strong pace and was even in the lead a few times. 

When at the peak of the mountain, I was met with gratitude and bliss. I was overjoyed to be able to partake in my German adventure. It made me realize my travels were to be much like this mountain: steep, tiring, well worth it, and fun. I just have to be patient and willing to push and ask for a break. At the top of the mountain, looking at the great Elbe River and lovely towns, I couldn't help but smile. I wanted to emit that warm fuzzy feeling through my very being to be set free in the strong wind. So that maybe it was even able to reach you; can you feel the happiness!? Maybe that was the reason all those people kept looking at me, but I was happy to find that if I looked at them and smiled, they too would smile back. 

ELBE RIVER AND TOWN

STEEP PATHS AND ROCKY WALKWAYS

A RESTING STONE FOR WARY BONES

AT THE PEAK

THE BREATHTAKING VIEW