It's been a beat...
But I want to assure you that Jamie (PorkRind) is fine and trucking on. Currently at the Big Sandy Lodge near Boulder, Wyoming, he is resting a bit, refueling as much as possible, and recharging by any means necessary!
It hasn't been an easy few days, I know. I don't really know all the details of the hike specifically, other than the few little bits I've deduced. I DO know that we've had resupply SNAFUs, overnight lodging uncertainties, less than ideal water supplies, and concerns about having adequate food for the number of hiking days. No big deal, right?! (Sarc)
I'm not going to beat around the bush. I have done everything (and more!) to make sure all the moving parts align as they're supposed to, in order to ensure successful progression on this hike.
PorkRind/Chicarrone and Buck50/HikerBob have knocked out all the physical requirements to move north on the map.
But circumstances... man. They can be the twist.
One of my observations here is that PorkRind/Chicarrone and Buck50/HikerBob are REALLY trying to cover some ground!
It's possible that they have entered a phase of the hike where they are concerned about finishing in "the window." It's also possible, that they are in a zone where they are more focused on miles than SMILES. I'm not one to judge, but...
This, literally, makes me frown. I mean, if you are going to hike 3,000 miles across the most beautiful part of the country (Sorry... I admit my biases.) I THINK you should soak it in!
We could play a game of "Would You Rather" but I think it would be counter-productive at this point. These evaluations will have to be done by the hikers.
And I am self-aware enough to know that I can't possibly assess that for them, given that I am sitting here cuddling a new puppy, drinking a nice glass of pinot, and NOT avoiding rattlesnakes.
(Hat tip to HikerBob for this! --->
Another observation I have is that PEOPLE are one of the best things you will experience on this journey (either as a hiker or a home office).
There are just SO many kind, helpful, genuine, pay-it-forward people in this world. Trail angels, proprietors, restaurateurs, barkeeps, UPS Store employees, and friends... We have been blessed with the kindnesses of ALL these people.
Strangers have stepped in to give a ride. Sisters of life-long friends (Hi, Sherri!) have made connections with willing trail angels and shined her bright, kind light on the Home Office. And I'm not making this up... Convenience store employees have served as a sounding board/resource for navigating a sticky resupply issue.
It's just incredible.
So, I intend to focus on that... And what ever this cute little puppy needs...
Eventually, I might get around to what the hiker needs!
You are appreciated.
Home Office and Hikers! Hats off to all of you. You are a great team, and fortunate to have all the trail angels! Dana
YOu are amazing. Keeping my fingers crossed that we can enjoy a glass of wine together in October and talk about "what's going on". Keep the faith. You are awesome! Sister Sherri