August 14, 2008

Today I packed my backpack and weighed every article before making the decision whether or not to include it in my pack. My total pack weight without at least 6 lbs. of water is 45lbs. I have planned for 52 feet of snow or 100 degree temps. I even planned for fires! My Papal carpet pieces from Yankee Stadium added 8 ounces. That is 8 ounces of Godspeed, I pray! A minimalist, I'm not. I like things with me. After all, these are my gear items for the next four weeks. My backpack will become my home beginning tomorrow and also my best friend. That, and my compass. I still need to be educated on getting from point A to point B. I lack what some come by naturally....instinct on directionality, if that's even a word. But I get lost on every hike and have always managed to find my way north. I don't get frazzled by getting lost b/c I know that I have everything to survive. My daughter Britty said, "Mom, if you get lost, go against your instincts." Well said, swet daughter of mine. I will not sleep a wink tonight b/c I am just too excited to get started all over again. This will be my 3rd year on the PCT! The first year I hiked 1,340 miles and in '07 I hiked 2,258 miles. Third time is a charm, right? As long as it is a Ladybug charm. I decided to try to look feminine somehow during my hike so I plan to wear Ladybug earrings and a Ladybug bracelet. Maybe people that I run into off the trail won't notice all of the dirt and my greasy hair. Maybe they'll notice the Ladybugs instead? My first challenge will be with the airlines. I hope that my flights are on time and that my backpack doesn't get lost. But that's why I'm carrying the Papal carpet...to oversee and avert disaster for the next 4 weeks.
Cheers from Cincinnati!