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It seems the older I get, the more I think in quarters. Let me explain…after every three to four months I reflect on how I did in my last quarter. Did I hit my business targets? Did I get sufficient exercise? Did I have enough exercise and fun? Is my life progressing in the direction I want it to go? Am I moving towards a designed life or am I just living day to day reacting to the circumstances around me? On a quarterly basis, these are the many thoughts that run through my head.

Recently, I ran into a friend and colleague at work, Tim Banfield, who is constantly setting out on new challenges and adventures. On many occasions he has invited me to join him on those adventures including mountain climbing, ski tours, biking and many more. After months of saying no, I finally said yes and we picked Tuesday 22 September to do head out and do something fun.

We ultimately decided to do a multi pitch climb at the Ghost area (Don Getty Wildland). While I have ridden my road bike a little bit in this area, I really had no idea where we were going. Getting there in Tim’s Grand Cherokee was almost enough of an adventure with all the twists and bumps in the road. After arriving and a short hike from the drainage area, we were at the base of our chosen route called Heidies with Hilties – a 5.10b route established in 2000 by two women by the name of Heidi. The last time I did a 5.10b was at Smith Rock in Oregon in 1991 with my brother Tommy… and it was a single pitch, so this would definitely prove to be a challenge.

Tim led the four pitches and I followed. At one point I thanked Tim for keeping the rope tight and he replied that he was giving me a ‘girlfriend belay’. With a taunt rope, I was able to successfully do the entire climb without falling. During the entire clime Tim reassured me that at no time were we ever in danger, and I acknowledged that. However, at the same time – my body was completely exhausted as we reached the top at the final pitch. We repelled down and at the base of the climb, we had a picnic snack before going on a short hike.

Completely at peace, I lied on the ground … so thankful to be in this amazing location. In retrospect, the highlight of the day was not the adrenalin pumping climb up the steep wall, but the relaxation of hanging out at the base in complete peace. At the same time, I needed the climb to enjoy the peace of just hanging out. I guess it is the ying and yang or pendulum of life – you cannot have happiness without sadness, you cannot have success without failure, exhilaration comes from peace. Thanks to Tim, I’m already making a plan for some adventures next quarter!

Are  you looking to Sell or Buy a home in Calgary and need someone who won’t rest until you’ve found your dream home or until your home is sold? I’ll work hard to earn your trust and to deliver exactly what you need. Contact me at 403-589-0004 or at TheHowardTeam.net.

About Bryon Howard

Bryon Howard and his team of Calgary real estate professionals sell an average of two homes a week. He is a member of the MLS Million Point Club, which ranks him roughly in the top 1% of productive realtors in Calgary. His aim is not just to please clients but to help them buy/sell a home in Calgary at the best price, in the shortest time, and with the least hassle. He is a member of the RE/MAX House of Real Estate that leads in the Canadian market. Learn more about Bryon at TheHowardTeam.net.