For those of you who have not heard, our Kilmanjaro's team has added motivation to summit this mountain. Our Kilmanjaro team member, Mike Darby was senselessly murdered last week as he was walking his dogs. Although we all still struggle with his death and will miss him tremendously, we will hike. A team is made up of team members. And every team member is important, and plays a role. Mike's unsaid role was to keep everyone laughing. He was the biggest practical joker I have every met. He lauged often, and made sure others did as well. In addition to his laugh, he had one of the biggest hearts I've witnessed. He gave (time, money, and kindness) in more ways than we will every know. And never wanted the recognition for it. He knew how to pay attention to the little things, that ended up being big things. Just an example; we were all on a 6 hour hike, and when we stopped for a fuel break half way, Mike pulled out cold fresh sandwiches (and good sandwiches!) that he brought! Real food on a middle of a hike!! It was pure delight! 

I know at times Kilimanjaro will be difficult, and for a variety of different reasons. But I am training harder, because I want that summit. . .now more than ever.