3 1/2 months ago, I stepped onto the Pacific Crest Trail with the intent of thru-hiking all the way to Canada. I struggled through the heat of the desert. I tackled the altitude of the High Sierras. I slept in a tent, bathed in steams, made friends, met amazing trail angels, and saw parts of California that only a handful of folks will ever see with their own eyes.
I also became stronger physically, mentally, and emotionally. I saw myself for who I really was and realized I really liked the woman I've become. I saw the family and friends I'm surrounded by and knew that I would not have such amazing people in my life if I, myself, weren't amazing as well. You are who you're friends with after all. :-D
What didn't become stronger were my ankles and knees. My body made it clear that if I continued with the hike, injury was eminent. It was just a matter of time.
So, upon reaching Ashland, Or., I turned in my Thru-Hiker label and picked up a Section Hiker one. Of course I hiked the most difficult and longest part of the trail, so I'm pretty darn proud of what I accomplished.
If anyone told me even 2 years ago that I would hike 1,727 miles, the entire length of California, I would have laughed and laughed and laughed. But here I am having done exactly that. And I sit here and laugh and laugh and laugh because I had a grand time!
As I take time to rest and recover, I'll be updating the blog with photos, stories, etc. of my journey and I'll be making plans to complete Oregon and Washington one section at a time.
So thank you ALL for your support, encouragement, comments, and...just everything!! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
-Only a Test
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