The Road to Kilimanjaro - The Day Before

Ok.  Amsterdam is done and over.  In retrospect, it might not have been the best preparation for Kilamanjaro, but it was good fun, despite the rotten weather.  The skies may have opened up and rained sheets upon sheets of rain on us every single day, but all we had to do was tuck into one of the little Brown Cafe's and everything was ok.  A couple of Heinekens later, we would be dry and warm, and ready to tackle more of the city.  I loved every part of Amsterdam: the cobblestone streets, the old-school architecture, the walk-ability of the entire city.  It was easily the best layover ever.

But now we're in Moshi, Tanzania, at the Springlands Hotel, packed and ready to start the big climb tomorrow.  I think I've freaked myself out over the past couple of weeks, reading way too many blogs of how tough the Kilimanjaro climb can be.  I've been doubting myself and my abilities.  I've scared myself into thinking I might not be able to do this.  I've been beyond nervous.  But I have to keep reminding myself that I'm fit and have been training for this.  We live at altitude, have been snowshoeing in the mountains, and even took that hut trip after Christmas.  If that didn't prepare me for Kili, then nothing will.

Our big hike begins tomorrow.  It's now or never, so I guess we better be ready.  I'll be off the grid for a whole, but a full trip report will certainly follow.  Wish us luck!


Click here to view our pics from Amsterdam.