August 20, 2008

Breaking camp tip-toeing around wet cow patties was interesting. I had to be extra careful to try to keep my gear items and water hose from touching something gross. My hike began today by walking past the cows as they watched while munching on the field. I chuckled to myself when I used nature's facilities. Unlike the cows, I was careful to "leave no trace." Today was a chilly day. I wore my gortex jacket and pants and a hat most of my hike. I signed in at the CA-OR border. Once a thru-hiker walks through CA, 1700 miles has been accomplished...much farther in the mountains than a direct 1000 mile route as the crow flies. 30-30 and I hiked alone and together and stopped at a piped water source. It was there where we met Trooper from San Diego. Trooper asked if either of us had dropped a bag of peanut M and M's. The still half full bag was mine and I was unaware that I had dropped them. I was deeply appreciative to Trooper for not gobbling them down. "They are my favorite treat," he teased as I shared the remaining M&M's with him. 30-30 and I hiked into Ashland which was the end of my 110 mile warm-up. I am eager to begin my hike from Muddy Creek where I shattered my tibia/fibula in 2007 after having hiked 2258 miles. 30-30 and I will take a commuter jet on 8-23 to Porland where we will be met by a trail friend. In the meantime, I will resupply, shower...a lot...and feast on non-processed foods.