Mountain climbing o’clock

 It’s Trail-Setter Mountain Climbing O’Clock!

Or should I say… nature climbing o’clock? Especially now that the rains have blessed the earth what better way to spend a Thursday morning than leg day in nature? Who needs the gym when you’ve got hills that will humble your quads and lungs in equal measure? Today was one of those days we hiked our lungs in!

As usual, I was up at 4 a.m. sharp. And of course, my ever-nosy companion, Moori, was up too, following me around like a furry little detective. We prayed together yes, my cat is that spiritual and I had my sahur since I’m fasting. I had to quickly call Adventure Lord before AEDC did their usual “hide and seek with the light.” He was to wait for me at the junction so we could head to the meeting point together. Team spirit starts early in the day, especially when you’re not sure your phone battery will make it past sunrise.

Before leaving, I fed Moori and even left some extra food classic mum guilt move. I whispered, “I’ll be back soon,” but what she didn’t know was… plot twist! I was going to be gone for long hours. Sorry baby, this wasn’t just a stroll to buy cat snacks.

At our first muster point, we met Maxy shoutout to the early birds! The rest of the crew was still en route. We decided to take advantage of the wait by hunting for akara and bread, because summit breakfasts must be sacred. As we were buying, Maxy called and said, “Get enough for the whole crew.” That was our cue we channeled our inner caterers. The vendor looked at us like, “Are you feeding a football team?” Well… kind of.

After regrouping, we set out, but not without a quick tyre-check detour courtesy of the founder. Safety first, always. Meanwhile, let me introduce our amazing crew for today: Sir Henry, Emmirine, Jossie, Hercule, Eddie, Peruzzi, Vivian, Lizzy aka Miss Crocs, Maxy, Adventure Lord, Cool Francis, and my humble self. This squad? 10/10, no weak links.

On our way to the hike site, we passed through Katampe Extension and wow just wow. The palm trees, the well-paved roads, the landscaping, and the buildings looked like something straight out of a Pinterest board. I affirmed on the spot: I will own a house here one day. Miss Crocs quickly added, “Your husband will own one too.” I said, “Amen, but don’t get it twisted, I’ll personally own mine as well!”

Soon enough, the mountain greeted us like royalty. We stood there for a moment just soaking it all in. A debate broke out: “Is this an easy hike or are we about to cry?” We were on the hunt for a “very easy” trail. Nature had other plans.

The cardio hit us fast and strong. No warm-up, just vibes and vertical steps. In 15 minutes, we’d ascended a good height, and the views? Chef’s kiss. The greens were greener, the skies clearer, and the air except for the cow dung perfume was pure. We had to detour to find a cow-pat-free zone to sit, relax, and pretend we weren’t slightly out of breath. Saturday hike planning began on that spot.

While catching our breath, the founder casually pulled out his glasses and someone teased, “You’ve been sleeping with those glasses ever since you got them!” We laughed, because it’s true he rocks them like they’re part of his DNA now.

While we were walking, someone casually said, “This is a very easy hike,” yet we all knew the truth some people would still show up and start complaining like clockwork. Right on cue, Mr. Emmirine, with the voice of reason (and a sprinkle of subtle shade), said, “This is not hiking, this is mountain climbing.” And honestly, he had a point. Some people have built a solid reputation for shouting, “I thought you said it’s an easy hike!” before we even reach the midpoint. So yes, let’s call it what it is mountain climbing with vibes.

We ventured deeper into nature, and boom Wakanda Mountain! I felt like shouting “Wakanda Forever!” but I held it in. The conversation flowed effortlessly stories, playful jabs, new slangs. I’m deeply grateful for this tribe. Every outing feels like therapy, minus the invoice.

And the weather? A soft, calming breeze. It wasn’t hot, it wasn’t cold it was just right. The earthy smell that filled the air after the rain felt like a warm welcome from Mother Earth herself. Mr. Jossie asked, “Do you know what this smell is called?” I didn’t. “Petrichor,” I told him I will foundout. Now I know. And now you do too.

After two hours of hiking, laughing, talking, and a few moments of “why am I doing this to myself,” we made it to the summit. There, the view was everything stretching across trees, hills, and stories only hikers can tell. We feasted on our summit breakfast: akara, bread, and stories best told at the top.

At the summit, we discovered a small cave narrow, mysterious, and just wide enough for a true slim fit to slide through. Of course, I and Cool Francis rose to the challenge and made it through like champs. There were a couple of other cave-like spots around, but this one stood out. It had that "enter at your own risk, but brag forever" energy. A little secret passage that made the summit feel even more magical.

The founder, as usual, found a way to nap sitting up. The guy can sleep through a band playing next to his head. Naturally, we gave him premium banter. Also, a new word was born “Don’t be Siefiey.” Origin: a very unfortunate event at Farin Ruwa. Meaning: Don’t get dumped halfway, emotionally or physically! 

My addirie palazzo pants weren’t spared either someone said they could double as a parachute if I ever slipped off the mountain! The audacity!

We took photos, shot videos, soaked in the peace until nature sent flying ants and stubborn flies to remind us it was time to go. On the way down, we took a different route, and somehow got slightly lost. But as always, we found our way through faith, vibes.

Just as we were about to go home, Peruzzi suggested, “Let’s go drink Coke.” Me: fasting o, but I followed anyway. That’s how we ended up in another “Council of Elders” session. Classic founder move to name every hangout something grand.

I didn’t stay long my heart was already home with Moori. Big love to Mr. Eddie who paid for my transport fare. May your account never see red again!

When I got home, guess who was at the door? Yup Moori, with the look of, "You better have a good excuse." I scooped her up and gave her a treat. Instantly forgiven.

I freshened up, caught a quick nap, and later dashed to a housewarming party. I also checked in on my dear one who had an asthma attack sending love and prayers for a speedy recovery. Life is short hug your people, feed your cat, and never miss a good hike.

See y’all on Saturday!

Peace.