This is a sponsored post. All opinions are mine.

The last climb I had was last February 2013. 5 yrs ago, we trekked to Cebu’s Osmena Peak and traversed to Kawasan Falls. I still remember how we faced the cold, windy weather, the sweat as walk our way to the campsite and then to the falls, the difficult trail, the muscle pains and the joy of reconnecting with nature. As a novice, I’d say everyone did a good job as the team completes the trek safely. Personally, completing it was self-fulfillment.

We started our ascend from Mantalungon, Dalaguete’s market with a fully loaded tummy. During that day, rain pours every now and then that it caused the trail to be muddy and slippery. Also, the wind slows us from our track too where hats and ponchos are blown from there and here. Then fog is everywhere that is gives us almost 0% visibility of our way. We could have used trailers but it could spoil the fun, besides only foot paths are available going to the peak.

Nevertheless, we made it to the camp site. It took us awhile to set up our tent, waiting for the pouring to stop. However, seems like the weather that day was not cooperating so with the rain and wind, we looked for a better location within the campsite. Well, you can’t run away from the rain and wind, can you? And oh, I remembered our friend’s tent that was taken away by the wind. We tried to recover it but to no avail as the wind is faster than us. Good thing some of us brought extra tents.

I love the energy of the our group. For first timers to trek on a not so good weather, its still uplifting to know that instead of complaining, they shown positive attitude on the situation enough to make dinner and still sit together and talk and share stories. This is what I love to some millennials — knows how to enjoy make the most of it despite the situation! As for me who can’t bear the cold air, I didn’t stayed long and went inside our tent. Even inside our tent, its still I can still feel the coldness though in fact it was one of my longest night ever. I’m not sure if I was able to sleep, everything is so cold. If only we have camping blankets like Montem, for a more comfortable sleep 🙂

The next morning, we get a chance to peek the surroundings as Mr. Sun appears briefly. A very rewarding scene indeed.

After we were able to get enough of Osmena Peak’s beauty, we started our trail to Kawasan Falls. It was more or less 6-hr walk. It started out exciting but then becomes painful. Thankful for the daily short walks towards the mall near our office during lunch times, as this helps me endure. I am tired but as soon as I hear the rushing of water from Kawasan, I become excited and determined to reach the place.

It was worth a climb even with muscle pains that lasts for a week. Memories are stamped and will never be erased. Sadly I was not able to visit the peak again…hopefully soon and hopefully, I could bring with me my kids in exploring the mountains and nature 🙂

Photo Credits: Michael Jay Abalos of Tainted Stains