1000 miles… have I learned anything???

1000 Miles

After 69 days on trail, today I walked across the 1000 mile threshold. In the grand scheme of the PCT, I’m not even halfway, but relative to most things walking 1000 miles is a big accomplishment.  When all there is to do is walk in nature, there’s a lot of time to think, dream and question. For me here are some things that I’ve learned in the last 69 days. 

People are inherently good. They want to help and be apart of something more than themselves. One of the biggest things I struggle with is saying “yes” to help or allowing someone to do something for me. I need to be better at just saying “thank you” and accepting someone’s kindness. After all, it’s one of the things I most enjoy doing, helping others. 

I am truly blessed.  I have an amazing family and friends who are supportive of me and this crazy adventure. I have a job that allows me to do things like this and dream big for the next grand adventure. 

I am thankful. Every morning I have a routine. I get up pack up my things, message my parents that I’m starting the day and then I hike for two hours without stopping. These two hours are my time to reflect on what or who I’m thankful to have in my life.

I am astonished at the resiliency of the body. Prior to the trail if I’d have done just one hiking day like I do now every day my legs and body would be wrecked for several days. Now I can cover 20+ mile days doing ridiculous amounts of elevation, sleep at night and wake up to do it again the next morning. 

The people on trail are amazing. Yes I have a trail family and for the most part hike with them/camp with them. But the times I’ve jumped ahead, I’ve met some amazing people along the way. Everyone has such dynamic lives and stories, it’s one of the highlights to get to meet new hikers. 

Following a dream/goal is brave. When I started the PCT it was so surreal that I was actually starting something I’ve literally dreamed and hoped for the past 10 years. It’s hard to make that leap to take the first step and then keep on going.

Jump in the lake/stream/river.

Eat all the junk food and ask others what they’re making for dinner, some people are backpacking artists when it comes to making food. 

The PCT is a huge life goal for me, I’ve started to think of new adventures and goals after I hopefully finish/accomplish this one. My list continues to grow and I hope I learn just as much from those trips as I’m learning from this one. 

I am loved.