2 years after Katahdin

By Chris Galanty
“O.C., The Optimistic Crusader” of ’94
Arlington, Virginia, Sept. 12, 1996

O H, I CAN'T help but reflect on this day for it was exactly two years ago that I made the final climb. I remember the overwhelming joy and sense of accomplishment as if it was yesterday. From Daicey I set out with Planter, Piddler, and Hinkley, it was a gorgeous morning. The day before it had rained quite hard and we were relieved that the skies were clear. At tree line a storm blew through and we were pelleted with rain, which continued until we got to Thoreau Spring.

Between the spring and the summit I was overwhelmed with emotions. The cloud that we were engulfed in made it feel as if we were floating on air. I reached the summit before the others and hugged the sign, sat, and looked out into the mist. Planter and Piddler reached it next and Hinkley shortly after. We hugged, talked, laughed, and started taking pictures. Slowly, ever so slowly the clouds began to break, it was magical.

We would get a glimpse of Chimney Pond then clouds would block our view again. It happened again and again and finally they lifted altogether. Finally the cloud was above the summit and we were afforded the spectacular view from the mighty Katahdin. I think I heard a powerful organ play the moment the clouds lifted, but it might have been my heart. We danced, sang, hugged more, and smoked the cigars Planter had packed away. It was a glorious moment indeed and I'll never ever ever forget it.

Springer be my Baptism and the Mighty Katahdin my funeral -- I say never again!

Hope you are all well!!!
~ OC


Back to the Journals page