Author: BrotherPaulOSF

Low 40° and rain. I hope other hikers are prepared. Heard a story about spending the night in the restroom to get out of the rain and wind, was high 40° inside the handicap stall.

Grateful to begin this time in the wilderness. Thanks to the Creator, my family and many from the multitude of communities I am blessed to be a part of.

Privilege must be acknowledged has this trip is impossible to most of humanity.  Fortunately I was born at this time and place to have a solid upbringing, education, and multiple employment opportunities to get to this point.  Been through many jobs in the tech industry and the latest transition provided the opportunity to take a break for this attempt.  Humanity needs to spend more time in the literal wilderness to learn the effects of what we had done to it so we can heal it.

Body does seem to be working. It has been six days since my last hike. Lots of stiffness. Most of the familiar discomforts are still there and there is comfort in knowing there is nothing new. The blue skies, sun, and dry air is overwhelming. Hopefully the adjustment is quick and nothing develops from them.

First camp on the trail.

About once an hour helicopter flies over 24 hours a day. Was woken up in the middle of the night by them. The border wall and patrols create a very ugly place to be in.

Getting supplies from Target. Will be in the hills behind me in about a month.

Had to stop for some burgers along the way. In-N-Out Burgers are well known in Seattle but not available in Washington state.

Did find a soap container that exploded on the trip down South. Hopefully the new one will not do the same.

Taking a eastern route to Campo, CA through Idaho and Nevada. My wife and sister will return up I-5 in California and Oregon.

After eating many corndogs on Wednesday nights had one for breakfast.

Way up to Snoqualmie Pass to start the road trip south.

Will have a new Zoom view shortly. The old one still does not get old.

Going to miss the snow climbs and feasting.

Testing out the tent in my sister’s backyard.