Io Sono Qui

In my opinion, there is no better exercise than hiking. There is something about being surrounded by the beauty of nature and overcoming new challenges that  makes me feel incredibly alive. Whether it's a log jam, rock pile, or icy cold pool, the sense of accomplishment on the other side is tremendous. It's so much easier to push through that extra mile when you know there is a panoramic view at the finish.

Today my host dad and I went hiking with a local group in the hills surrounding Ostuni. It was a muddy and slippery trek, but not extremely difficult. Over the course of about two hours we visited two caves and enjoyed a picturesque landscape of cities and sea. The first cave was not far from the archaeological area where they found "The woman of Ostuni", a well preserved skeleton of a woman who died approximately 25,000 years ago. (link: http://www.ostuni.tv/English/Delia/Delia_En.htm ) It is amazing to visit places inhabited such a long time ago, rich with history and beauty. Every time, I find myself repeating in my head "I am here, this is real, this is unbelievable".