Determination

the quality of being resolute; firmness of purpose.

On Labor Day we hiked about 10.5 miles total on a local trail. About halfway into the hike I noticed that besides the hiking pole in her right hand, Marilyn was carrying a large tree branch in her left hand. I asked her whether we should have brought two hiking poles. She replied that she wasn't trying to use the branch as a hiking pole but rather as a way to help her strengthen her grip and control the general spasticity of her left arm. Later in the hike, we had a tricky stream crossing. Marilyn slipped and banged her shin hard on a rock. With wet feet and a bruised shin she asked if we could hike one mile further in. (This after 5 miles of hiking). We eventually finished the hike and drove back home at which time she decided it would be a good time to try riding her cruiser bike again. With helmet on she pedaled up and down the street - no problem. Determination.