A Beautiful Saturday to Remember
It was a beautiful Saturday morning, and the only thing on my mind was hiking. I just couldn’t help it. Sure, I thought about going to the gym I’d missed my last session but something in me longed for the trail instead. So, I made up my mind and went hiking.
After all, what better way to spend a Saturday than reconnecting with yourself when the only person you truly need to take care of is you?
I fed my royal king, Moori, my cat, and got dressed. Had a little a little ginger tea for breakfast, and then got ready to hop out. Got to the junction, caught a car to our meeting point. I already knew where we were hiking, so I went straight up to our point.
I came in a bit late it was already 8 o’clock, and we were about to start hiking. Everyone was trying to park neatly, tie shoelaces, check their water bottles. I met some lovely faces “Oh long time, yeah! I’m here today.” It had been four or more weeks since I last hiked on a Saturday. I guess I enjoy trail-setting more, on Thursdays.
While walking, I met Mrs. Vee got a hug and exchanged pleasantries then Nas and Ola, who were goofing around like myself. I felt alive stepping out again, especially because I almost didn’t. But deep down, my soul needed this, and it urged me to go.
On the trail, I met some senior men like Moh and two others. Being in my playful mood, I greeted loudly; one said, “We will not answer,” and I shouted even louder until they laughed and replied. Pure vibes.
I met Boyante too, exchanged pleasantries, and overheard a lady hiker saying, “This is hard o!” Mind you, we were just 10 minutes in and hadn’t even started ascending. But that was her reality. I teased her, “Hold Boyante responsible!” and ran off laughing.
Earlier, I had seen Sir JEM his smile could light up Africa.
About 20 minutes into the trail, I noticed some hikers had stepped on plants beans and sweet potatoes and I felt bad. I wondered, Can’t they see? But maybe some didn’t even know they were edible plants.
We soon reached a sandy ascent where stamina was needed to pull yourself and help others. I got assisted this time no hard girl energy today; I was in my inner child mood.
A few steps down, we reached a point where one could choose which road to cross like a Nollywood scene, crossing into “the promise.” There was a shallow ditch you wouldn’t want to fall into, so caution was key. I chose the other way and crossed, calisthenics babe wey I be, after handing my phone to Nas for safety.
At the resting point, I greeted Epa and got a warm hug from Valery, the Energy Doctor and perfume seller. We rested for about 10 minutes while others caught up. Life is turn by turn no rush am, you go reach the summit.
I also met Peruzzi earlier always a whole vibe and more.
Another 10 minutes of walking and we came across estates under construction. Omo! Even the mountains are being taken down for estates now. Well, I’ll still buy my house in Katampe Extension someday, In Sha Allah. From there, we could see parts of Katampe and Abuja breathtaking view.
When we finally reached the summit, everyone felt that “I made it” joy. I spotted a hiker with an umbrella and thought, next time, I’m bringing mine too the sun wasn’t smiling.
I got my therapist hug from Ms. Claudia been a while since I saw her. Looked for Lonewolf’s trouble (as usual), gisted with Ms. Rahila, and ran into a mutual friend who also showed up to hike.
Oluwadamidare was busy interviewing hikers about their opinion on consensus when a guy invites a lady over. (He didn’t ask me, thankfully 😄). Sammie rallied people for games, some bonded over gist, food, and drinks, while others played rubber games.
I got to ask a few hikers what gratitude means to them and many answered so graciously. I even got treated to yoghurt parfait by a generous fellow hiker (may blessings follow that one!).
And oh! I met Mr. Solomon, our ever-smiling Magic Lens Photography. It was so nice seeing him in person today I’m always admiring his amazing adventure photos on Instagram, @Dabelle_2018. More grace to you, sir 📸
Then I sighted Presido Banger, Hercule, and the Beast Blazzer exchanged warm smiles and vibes as always.
For me, gratitude means being thankful for what I have in the moment and for those kind and generous enough to share their time, money, or ideas. Gratitude makes me feel truly alive because it helps me stay present.
So today, I’m grateful for the strength to hike and for being part of this amazing community Naija Adventure.
When it was time to go, we descended in about 25 minutes it was an easy hike. Some of us later stopped by Burma Park & Garden to hang out because a friend was relocating to another city. That’s the reality of life you meet amazing people, and then adulthood and distance step in.
We had good food, suya, laughter, and heartfelt banter. Then it was time to head home. Some went off to watch a football match at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, while I needed rest my head was already feeling heavy.
Got home, said my prayers, and wrapped up the day with deep gratitude in my heart.
It was truly an amazing Saturday spent well.
Your turn: What does gratitude mean to you?
Share in the comments below 💛
Comments
Post a Comment