Tremendous Hike That Tests My Endurance And Fortitude At Mt. Liog-Liog

One has to be brave enough to face challenges in life, especially in this tiring yet adventurous one. Just this Wednesday (since it's a holiday, its travel day), we climbed again to another mountain nearest to our residences. This tremendous hike that tests my endurance and fortitude at Mt. Liog-Liog is my second time climbing a mountain and I should say a risky and life-threatening one!

Since the first time I tried mountaineering, I can't resist seeking more. That's why when @callmesmile invited us to another mountain climbing, I didn't hesitate to say yes even though I committed a trip that day. In my mind, I wanted to prioritize my health and doesn't want to miss this opportunity with the gang.

It's a beautiful day!

As usual, we agreed to assemble at 6 in the morning at the alley heading to Mt. Liog-Liog. It is located at Mabuli, Toboggan.

I was the one who arrived first so instead of sitting in the waiting shed of the alley, I opted to stay near the road where I can gaze at the morning sunshine however it was not yet rising, so I just enjoy looking at the river underneath the highway. @elloquent arrived next, then we bought some goodies to bring to the mountain. Then @naymhapz together with her travel buddy, Ixie arrived and just a few seconds later Ma'am Smile together with our two male students, Ken and Jheyneil.

From the starting point, it is already steep so this gonna be a challenging and a struggle one. The sun started to rise and it motivates us to go on since it was a sign of an optimistic day.

As we reached the top, this view remained our eyes in awe. The edge of the road has some cogon grass with its fully-bloomed feathery flower. Another one was a variety of coconut trees, a bilaka variety which when bears fruit, the owner usually picks standing without climbing to its tree.

As we go on, we found ourselves on roads leading to the mountain. Other roads were cemented and others were made of limestone however motorcycle drivers still managed to drive this tricky road. Along the road, we passed by the mini forest where I am enticed to get dried wood but I might get lost if I give in. So, I keep on track.

What lies beyond difficult roads are the green and scenic views! I can't forget the feeling of being blessed to see the perfect view of morning. One of the peaks you see from afar is one of our main climbs, I am excited!

After almost an hour of walking, we saw a couple of houses built along the road. They live so simply yet with an abundance of nature. How grateful they are for having such a breathtaking view every day. Even if they are away from civilization, they are contented with the life they have.

Above the houses, we passed by an Elementary School in Mabuli. Where my brother is the School Head. I forgot to invite him to this incredible hike. Might include him soon.

I shall say, a never-ending walk with nature it is. This place has potential for agriculture. For most of the people who live here, farming is their source of living. The abundance of water was observed. They made a bridge connected to another area which to make people's life easier.

We were almost at the foot of the mountain and while hanging by there, I saw a goat feels like in a photo shoot. In open ground, they grazed here.

Let the journey begin!

At the foot of the mountain, we saw signs leading upward and advice for us to follow. From here, the bushy wild plants adorned toward the summit. I am excited to ascend and thinking what leads further.

The strenuous path made us crawl upon stepping on the rocks, except Ma'am Smile who calmly enjoyed every step she made. The three of us leads while others were behind us. Ma'am Marfe's daughter was eagerly and energized to trek ahead of us. The level of endurance has a big impact as we grow older.

After a couple of minutes of hiking, we pause for a while as I can feel the sweat running all over me. I forgot to bring my hair tie and gladly Ma'am Marfe has an extra tie, so I borrowed it.

The exhausting activity sweats me out and I can't remember when was the last time I had a lot of it. Feels so refreshing and fueled me up to do more.

After we get back our energy, we were back on track! The sharp rocks never stop us from getting on top. We were eager to finish so we can see what was waiting for us. As I have observed, the rocks from the hill were black, while others were white due to the water drained here.

This time, my breathing gets harsher as I was breathing using my mouth. I even expressed how tiring it was with a loud sigh. My nose bulged enough to insert my forefinger.

After such a tremendous hike. We're here! A boulder that has a cross and flaglets hanging seems the best welcome to us.

The arrival on top

We hurriedly went above to witness the goodness of the view. The triumphant faces cannot hide the camera. We were so lucky and on cloud 9 as we safely came here.

We happily ate our breakfast as we successfully hit the mark. We have shared some light foods we bring. Such a nice feeling being with the gang talking about anything and laughing so hard like there's no tomorrow.

But wait there's more....

After munching our breakfast, Ma'am Smile told us that it was not over yet, we are not successful climbers if we'll not able to climb the highest peak of the mountain, which is the Tindog-Bato which means Standing Rock. At first, I am enthusiastic to go there. However, when I'm actually on the trail, my legs went trembling. When I look below I feel like I may fall. I crawl on the terrain so I can reach the peak. It may sound odd but yes I do that and it's much safer than trying I am not. Seems like the wind blew me away and I keep on complaining about why the wind blows so hard, hahaha. My colleagues laughed at me but I don't care, I have to wait until the wind stops from blowing. I can't take it anymore, I have to go down. But my inner self wanted to continue and do the challenge.

Fears conquered!

I have conquered my fears! I took the risk yet it's worth fighting for! That pose is worth the while. I appreciate the beauty of the world from up above. The place becomes tiny all I can see was green vegetation and the blue horizon.

The vast vegetation of the place remains untouched and reserved.

After a few moments at the peak, we were able to descend since the striking heat of the sun started to pierce our skin. That's why, when I come home, I felt a burning in my face and yes it's burned!

The experience I got from this journey cannot equal any possession in this world. We may have fears but we have to conquer them with faith and fortitude!

That's all for today have friends! See you on the next one. Don't forget to believe in yourself in every challenge you may take. Have a great day!