On a certain late spring/early summer hike of Mt. Mansfield, Matt decided that it was time that we each had an animal pseudonym attributed to us based on our hiking style. Matt dubbed himself the mountain goat. As he says, he may at times be stubborn and need a kick in the pants, but he does it. And he does it well. Sometimes complaining all the way. I pegged Sam as the Catamount of the group, pounding up the mountains with ease, and Sam christened me as a Bald Eagle for the way I, apparently, soar to the top. However, Matt later amended these pseudonyms, claiming that both the Catamount and Bald Eagle were overdone. Thus, Sam became the Bobcat and I became the Peregrine Falcon. Way cooler.
If you are wondering if this is what we talked about for the entire 8+ mile hike (Maple Ridge trail to the Forehead, LT across the top to the chin, Sunset Ridge down), the answer is yes. It seems that every group of animals has a unique label -- a gaggle of geese, a fleet of mudhens, a mutation of thrushes -- so we figured we could basically have our pick since we were a group of many different animals. Naturally, we settled on "pride." As Matt is the one who birthed the idea, he of course is our Elder Statesman. Sam and I round out the senior council. The group is not exclusive, but before anyone can be welcomed into the pride they need to hike with all three of us and the entire senior council must agree on the name. This is serious.
Sara is our first charter member as the Jackelope. A heated debate arose regarding whether or not we should allow mythical creatures into the pride and whether or not that would open up the flood gates for ridiculous suggestions. But as Matt has ultimate ruling power as the Elder Statesman, the Jackelope was allowed.
We decided that we should start documenting our escapades. While we will mostly talk about hikes, chances are we will also talk about running and beer. And maybe cycling. Adventures will be documented in no particular order. Just whatever we feel like talking about.
Though many will request, very few will be permitted to join the PRIDE.
ReplyDeleteFor information regarding applying to the PRIDE, please see a current PRIDE member.
Please note: applicants are subject to any and all of the following: outdoorsmanship questioning, physiological examination, psychological evaluation, strip searches, and a thorough investigation in to the applicant's interests regarding the following: dietary preferences, beer consumption, knowledge and willingness to share, and level of interest in the creation of hybrid beer/athletic sporting events.
Any and all other questions should be directed to the Chancellor of the PRIDE, Matt Coonrod.