August 24, 2008

I awoke to brisk temps of 45. Brrr! I was anxious to get started. Today would be the day that I would "get back on the horse"...so to speak. I lingered my way north past Mt. Adams, caught a glimpse of Mt. St. Helen, and talked with several hikers who were headed south. A day hiker with big dogs informed me that he was glad to not be crossing Muddy Fork. Many new bridges had been built in this section, but he told me that the water was high and there was no bridge. My anticipation and self-talk boggled my 9 miles to the stream crossing where I had shattered my leg almost one year ago. My gait was unsteady too due to a bit of vertigo caused by an ear surgery that I had years ago. When 30-30 and I approached Muddy Fork, we ran into Billy Goat, who was hiking southbound. Billy Goat had counted 55 northbound thru-hikers. I didn't speak with Billy Goat for long because my mind was set on getting across the creek. I hiked upon Muddy Fork to find a downed tree branch. This branch was curious and not the same one as last year. I looked at the muddy water and tested the depth with my hiking poles. And then I walked across the creek in water that wasn't more than a foot deep. The creek was not as wide as last year either. My feet, shoes, and socks got wet, but big deal. My crossing was a safe and easy one. I felt happy for myself. There was a red ribbon placed near this crossing indicating plans for a bridge. I hiked into the Goat Mountain Wilderness today and 30-30 and I opted to camp near one of the six stagnant ponds. The mosquitos were thick. I fell asleep tonight counting the mosquitos on my tent fly.