I am downright proud of myself. Taylor and I climbed Mt. Evans today. Which was, by the way, my very first 14er. The whole ordeal was terrific, great company, excellent conversation, and good weather.

On the way down we ran into a tenured hiker who encouraged us to take advantage of our good health and youth, not to wait till your 68 to start climbing. His final note of advice was to remember that every step counts, even on the way down. Meaning goes beyond he tenants of hiking...