As I sit here with maps laid out, gear on order and feet itching to go I have to stop and take a moment to appreciate.
This journey to hike the Pacific Crest Trail began about 6 years ago. It started as an idea, still is really because I'm not hiking yet. This idea almost became a reality for several years but I kept running away from situations or jumping into them. That freedom to go from a new job to a new job is cherished by a lot of seasonal workers and is a point of envy in others. Alas, these past few months have been hard yet so rewarding. The rolling hills, grassy fields, roaring rivers and snow capped mountains of Montana have left an impact on me like no other place. Leaving a place like that is never easy and doing it again does not get easier.
I end up asking myself is it worth leaving a community that you love to go forth on an expedition like this? Then I have to remind myself life isn't about the destination and unless you are willing to take chances the journey will only be a single trajectory. I have a friend whom many of you know that is already several hundred miles into the trail. She wrote on her blog about running away from things initially when hiking. Yet now it isn't about running away and for me, it is the same. I have to follow my heart and north bound is the direction I head. Feet first, eyes relaxed, ears open and smiles abound.
To keep it short I'd like to thank everyone that has been a part of this journey called life. Looking forward to more campfire stories, moon lit star gazing and finding oneself in the world.
Cheers,
Tyler
Oh and do check out the fundraising page I've started to help two local non-profits in Missoula, Montana:
https://www.gofundme.com/2660forYWCAandNCBI
