This summer Dan and Josh are going to Philmont with thier scout troop.  As the trip is next month, Dan is beginning to worry just a tad as to whether he has the, er, strength and ability to keep up with the young men in the troop.  To that end we have been hiking Kennesaw Mountain several times a week.  This has helped tremendously!  I've enjoyed the walks as well, although I must confess, I don't even carry my own water bottle, never mind a 40 pound back pack!

Here are some pics pre-back pack:

I really like this next picture.  I don't know why. 

If you note, all of these pictures are taken from a rear view.  That's because I like to stop and smell the roses and NOT race to the top like a mad thing.  Yeah, that's it.  I take the rear position because I enjoy the nature aspect of hiking--and all that panting, just expanding my lungs a bit is all!