Mountain climbing is one of the more challenging things to do in the US. Though a lot of things have introduced more sedentary lifestyle in the US and less inclination to do outdoor activities such as mountain climbing, it still does not diminish the fact that America has a lot of mountain climbing spots to boast of, and all it takes is an ounce of determination and a good eye for detail in order to find one.

Few people today embark on mountain climbing journeys especially in the US. You can definitely expect more exclusivity to the mountains in certain seasons. Do make inquiries on the place itself before going. Make sure that you have made a reservation of sorts before going there.

Mountain climbing is rewarding as much as it can get pretty tiring especially to those who are new to the activity. One of the best ways to prepare for climbing the best mountains includes having the proper gear. While you are at it, make sure that you also have a good background of your intended hiking route. These two things will ensure your safety even as you go up the heights in your climbing activity. Ample amounts of food and drinks to help you on your way up, as well as fun traveling companions will help lessen the pressure and allow you to have fun while shedding of pounds and reaching for mountain summits.

One of the best stops when looking for mountain climbing venues in the US would have to be Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. The picturesque scenery might as well remind you of the Marlboro man in the commercial some years back, and it is even better when you see it with your own eyes, and climb its summit and view everything from the top. The entire state of Colorado boasts that almost half of its landscape is a mountain-filled region. You can definitely take your pick and climb as much as you want for as long as you can do so.

If you want a literally cooler alternative, you may also want to try climbing the mountains in Denali, Alaska. You will need more than just the proper hiking gear. It will also require great stamina and capacity to survive in freezing temperatures. It is truly the acid test of every mountain climber in the US, but the ultra-picturesque view from the top may just convince you that it’s worth all the danger and the cold.

Arizona is also a good place to frequent for US mountain climbers. Climbing schools even abound in this area which makes it a good spot for training mountain climbing enthusiasts as well. As Denali is icy, Arizona mountains are extremely rocky and will require extra muscles and rigorous weight training before you get to climb them. It takes more than just aplomb and determination in climbing, but also an alertness against sharp edges which characterizes the terrain. Ironically, the jagged edges actually adds up to the basis of the mountains’ appeal in the sense that there is greater delight reaching its top after working so painstakingly hard for it.

Sushi, a popular Japanese dish, started as a method of preserving fish by putting it between layers of rice and salt and left to ferment. Over the centuries, the practice has evolved into what we know as sushi today, an appetizer, snack food or a meal of vinegar-flavored rice with topping or filling of a combination of or just seafood, meat or vegetable wrapped in nori, which is toasted seaweed sheet. Although sushi originally had raw fish, it is not the integral but just one of the varieties of ingredients used now.

There are many kinds of sushi, as one can see in a sushi bar, depending on the selection of fillings and toppings, and how the ingredients are assembled or presented. Actually, a sushi bar is also like a visual feast of colors and shapes. It’s like looking at a display of artworks. So, if you’re looking for an outlet for your creativity, why not try making your own sushi? It’s not as complicated as it looks and the ingredients are available in Asian food stores. You can even order the non-perishable items online. Just don’t forget that patience and the willingness to practice are important to come up with a masterpiece.

First, you have to decide on the kind of sushi you want to make. The most popular kind or form in sushi bars, which is also considered to be easier to make is the sushi roll or makizushi. Futomaki (thick rolls), hosomaki (thin rolls), and uramaki (inside-out rolls) are varieties of makizushi. Take note of the change from s to z if sushi is combined as a suffix.

Here’s how to make a makizushi (it could be a futomaki or hosomaki depending on the size of the roll). Start with a small quantity.

• Ingredients:
1. Sushi rice or any short grained rice
2. Nori or toasted seaweed sheet
3. Rice vinegar
4. Avocado, in strips
5. Cucumber
6. Carrot
7. Smoked salmon
8. Shrimp
9. Imitation crab
10. Condiments (e.g., pickled ginger, soy sauce, wasabi paste)

Take note that you can vary the above-listed items 4 to 9 according to your preference.

• You will need the following to assemble sushi:
1. Bowl of water with lemon slices or vinegar drops
2. Bamboo sushi roll mat
3. Sharp knife
4. Cutting board
5. Hand towel
6. Bamboo or wooden paddle
7. Glass, plastic or wooden bowl big enough for mixing the cooked rice with vinegar.
• Cook the rice:
1. Rinse 2 cups sushi rice until the water drained is clear.
2. Add 2 cups water in a rice cooker or covered cooking pan and bring to a boil for around 15 minutes, then simmer for another 15 minutes over low heat. Check if rice is done (if this your first time to cook this variety), then turn the heat off.
3. Let the cooked rice stand for about ten minutes before taking it out of the cooking pan or rice cooker.
• While the rice is cooking, cut into thin strips (like 3-inch long match sticks or thicker as long as it will be easy to bite.) the meat and vegetable for filling.
• Transfer the cooked rice into the glass or plastic bowl. Add 4 tablespoons sushi vinegar and gently fold using the wooden paddle until the vinegar is evenly distributed. May use a fan to speed up cooling and drying. Let stand for 10-15 minutes before using.
• Assemble the sushi roll. Always remember to wet the fingers in the water with lemon slices before handling the sushi rice and wipe them dry before touching the nori sheet.
• Place a sheet of nori, rough side up, on the bamboo rolling mat. Scoop a handful ( about one cup ) of vinegar coated rice and spread evenly on the nori sheet, about 1/4 inch deep, leaving about 2 inches on one short edge free. Don’t press the rice on the nori, It’s okay even if some spots of nori are visible. If a clean- cut look of the roll ends is preferred, leave around 1/2 inch along the length of the nori free of rice. The excess nori shall be cut later.
• Arrange the selected strips of filling in straight rows along the short edge of the nori. Start about 2 inches from the rice covered edge ( the edge near the sushi maker ) up to about the mid length of the nori.