I SCOOT to the edge of my seat on the bench. I cannot linger, and so I hastily check the CHART where the details of each hike are laid out. To say I am anxious is an understatement. I don’t do well on ice and the altitude of the climb is going to add to the challenge. Nothing to be done but move forward. I carefully fold the papers and put them away. Next, I adjust the CLEAT on my left boot, lift my pack onto my back, and get in line. I can feel the tension and apprehension around me. The sun is not up yet, and there is an eerie light. Big breath. Big sigh. I remind myself that I am just a CADET, standing with others who are starting out from the same place. Nevermind the stories I heard about what happened to the last crew of recruits. They can’t be true. Just stuff said to test us. Line starting to move, okay, let’s go.

Georg’ann

Duolingo for me

DAILY Italian lesson,
earns me BADGE after badge.
Becoming a CADET of sorts
in the Maritano family lineage.
Spanish never took,
my tongue resistant to rolling.
Now I embrace the full body
sensation of dramatic,
playful enunciations.

Heather