The Rwenzori Climb. The space between: As I wait for overlandmini and overlandintel

As beastybabe, I’ve always thrived behind the scenes, supporting overlandintel and overlandmini as they embark on their daring adventures. Whether it’s helping them prepare for a climb or ensuring everything is ready for their return, my role is the quiet force that keeps things running smoothly. This time, it was the Rwenzori Mountain Range—a 10-day climb that promised to be one of their most challenging yet.

Before they left, I was deeply involved in the preparations, making sure every detail was covered, from gear checks to ensuring they had enough supplies. Once they were off, it was just me and Beasty aka our loyal Guinness, left to hold down the fort.

The first day brought a brief message, letting me know they had started. And then, nothing. For days, the GPS tracker showed no updates, leaving me glued to my screen, hitting refresh more times than I’d like to admit. Each refresh was a hopeful gesture, a silent prayer for their safety.

While I’m used to being the silent supporter, this waiting game was a test of my patience and strength. Beasty, sensing my anxiety, became my steady companion, offering a quiet, comforting presence. Together, we navigated the stillness, both missing the lively energy overlandintel and overlandmini bring to our home.

When the long-awaited message finally arrived, saying they had summited Mount Speke and Mount Stanley, relief and pride surged through me.

overlandmini, my incredible daughter, never ceases to amaze me. Her strength, discipline, and sheer determination inspire me daily. To see her tackle such formidable challenges at such a young age fills me with immense pride. She is not just my daughter; she’s a force to be reckoned with, embodying a spirit that leaves me in awe. As Maya Angelou beautifully said, “I come as one, but I stand as 10,000.” overlandmini carries within her the strength of generations, and witnessing her harness that power is nothing short of extraordinary.

I’m endlessly grateful to overlandintel for guiding her on these journeys, exposing her to lessons of resilience and the beauty of the world’s wild places. But as any mother will tell you, my mama bear instincts are always on high alert. Every adventure they undertake comes with an unspoken rule: keep my daughter safe, or else........ . My trust in his protective nature is deep, but the fierce protectiveness of a mother never wavers.

After their return, my role continues behind the scenes, ensuring they have a warm, welcoming space to recover, with meals ready and stories waiting to be heard. Their adventures might take them to the farthest reaches of nature, but I am grateful they always come home to the steady love and support that anchors them. A special shout out to their climbing team - I am grateful for each one of you and the value you bring to our lives.

In reflecting on those 10 days of waiting, I recognize the profound bond that ties us all together. My silent strength, overlandmini's courage, overlandintel's leadership, and Guinness’s unwavering companionship create a family dynamic rooted in love, adventure, and unwavering support. Their journey is not just theirs; it’s ours—a testament to the power of family and the silent strength that holds us together through every climb and every challenge.