Day One

Mile 0 | The first day on the PCT I started at the border of Mexico and USA in Campo, California. I have never seen the border before. It was an exhilarating moment. Everything is novel and exciting. The climb was tough but I went 8 miles and set up camp with a few other hikers. Lorax and Firefly who are a couple hiking the PCT were already at the campsite when I arrived. They were basically the first people I had met on the trail after we all left the Southern Terminus. Their story was inspiring and left a positive impression in my mind. They met in Vermont while thru-hiking the Appalachian trail. I lived in Vermont for the past few years so my heart and mind are missing Vermont. Later came a father and young son hiking just a section of the trail, a woman hiking solo, and a family. "The Family" we call them. They are amazing. The mom, dad, grandma and two boys are hiking to Paradise Valley Cafe which is at approximately mile 150.

To hike the entire PCT you need to apply for a permit and choose a start date to keep the environmental impact of hikers to a minimum. I chose to leave on the 31st because it will give me enough time to make it North before the snow arrives in the Cascade Mountains. But also, because it is a full moon in Libra. This energy brings our relationships into focus. How we express ourselves in a group or partnership setting. It also brings forth a reflection of self and how our actions and communications (verbal & nonverbal) are interpreted by others. I am grateful for this time as I am about to embark on the trail. I am excited to meet new people from all over the globe. This will provide insight into how people interact and how each of our experiences are different. This is an important study for me because a goal of mine is to create an eco-retreat. An oasis for people to come and reflect on themselves. To learn what motivates them and to learn how to harness inner peace and power. We are all blessed with unique gifts. Borders are irrelevant. People, we are united in our differences. The next time you meet someone, make it a point to find out what their passion is. And share your inspiring dreams with them. Life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them. There's no better time than now to go out and start creating.

Don't forget, if you would like to contribute to my personal fundraiser for Protect Our Winters to offset the cost of global warming. Take a stand now and support POW by visiting their website, or following their initiatives on Facebook. If you would like to donate, Great!! Here's the link, https://classy.org/fundraiser/1276834 my goal is to raise $1 for every mile I hike on the PCT, a total of 2,660 miles. Thank you for rising up for the world and your future.