DEATH MARCH TO POTATO CHIP:

Sometimes, expectations do not always
become realities...

"Let's go on a hike," they said. "It'll be fun," they said.

A couple weeks ago, my family group from Palomar Korean Church (PKC--a church I attend when I'm at school) decided to bond a little with the help of good ol' nature. I had heard a lot of Potato Chip Rock and the amazingly breathtaking photos I could take once I reached the trail's peak. What I did not hear a lot of, however, was the actual hike up to the scenic stone.

For someone who, on average, hits the gym less than 5 times a month (but that's going to change now OK) this hike was definitely not a "walk in the park"--it took about 2 1/2 hours to climb up and down the rocky mountain. Determined to reach the top, we took minimal breaks and relished in our sweat until finally, FINALLY we got to the famous Potato Chip, and let me tell you: it was worth it.

There was already a long line of people waiting to have their picture taken on the most thin slice of rock I had ever seen. Our group tried to take as many pictures as possible before starting our trip down on the trail. It was nice to see people arriving and being completely awe-struck by not only the rock, but also at their achievement of reaching the mountain's peak.

Climbing down, we took some time to take photos of ourselves against a backdrop of God's beautiful creation. The weather was perfect as well, which allowed for many great, clear images. All in all, the entire experience--despite the dust in our nostrils, sweat on our backs, and aches in our legs--was incredibly fulfilling and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a challenge. Try out your New Year's Resolutions and endurance down here in San Diego and you may find that completing a challenge is in itself the most satisfying accomplishment you could ever experience.

Hope you are doing swell,

Rachel