I began reading everything I could find on thru hiking the PCT to get an idea of what I was getting myself into. I contacted several people who had completed the hike as well as several who made the attempt but fell short. I learned much from them and am excited to give this adventure a go. Hiking for five to six months straight; 2650 or so miles; alone; carrying everything I need on my back; will be challenging, difficult, rewarding and at the same time rejuvenating and a way to purge the negative memories of 32+ years in law enforcement.
Several people ask, "who are you going to hike with?" When I tell them no-one, I get the same, "you are an idiot" look. Many cannot fathom undertaking such a task willingly and alone. I get questions about being lonely. I explain my desire to enjoy the solitude of hiking mile after mile, lost in my own thoughts and dreams, doing what is often described as, "hiking your own hike." There are usually five to six hundred individuals who set out to hike the PCT every year. I will stumble across many during my hike and when the desire strikes will have people to talk and share stories with. I plan on writing daily and sharing my thoughts and experiences.
I will soon "re-tool" so to speak this BLOG and begin to write about the preparation for my hike and use this site to write about the adventures ahead. I will throw in a few shots at politicians and the goings on in San Diego as well as thoughts of a department that once was and what it has become.
I hope to entertain and at the same time allow you to share in my adventure; the pain, the joy, the sights and sounds, as well as the struggles of living in a tent for days on end and eating food that can be cooked by adding boiling water.
Life is good and I look forward to the next chapter.
