March 4, 11:20 AM, -8 ºC. I spent the morning inside, drinking multiple cups of hot chocolate mixed with abandoned instant coffee and writing in my journal.

This is an excerpt from what I wrote:

I haven’t gone outside yet today, even though it is a beautiful clear winter day. I’m physically and mentally preparing for my hike to the Kårsavagge tonight. I think I’m going to be cold, and that is sort of scary.

I could keep my tent close to the hostel and use the warm building as a refuge, but I’ve never been one to let the risk of the wild or the tension in my heartbeat make me back down. I am nineteen, I am well-prepared and I am fearless.

I’m not. Not really. And fear keeps you safe, careful. But I am bold, and tonight the skies will dance for a cold, brave boy alone in the wild.

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