Happy 420!

Update: The desert is hot!!

As the days grow longer, my body is beginning to feel stronger by the mile. My blisters seem to be healing, and overall, the only thing dragging down the days is the scorching sun and weight of carrying more water to avoid dehydration. Water casches are always exciting, and fortunately semi-frequent and always appreciated!

Definitely going to Trail Angle some water next year!

Hiking and setting up camp is beginning to feel like normal life. I mean, after all, it IS my life now. It's my job -- I show up to work hard and sleep exhausted at night knowing I did my best to push my body through the dry and mountainous terrain. It's hard. There are moments, where sweat is dripping down my cheeks and my throat feels dry like I'm sick and I can see up 3 miles ahead at the trail I will be walking in just over an hour. It seems so far, but after the terrain crossed inthe past 10 days, I know it looks horrendous but is possible. Having a camel back is amazing for quick sips of the heavy water I'm lugging to keep me alive. It's a mind over matter job... I get to take breaks whenever I want and no one cares if burp or swear, but with each step, I push myself to limits I didn't know I could. I find myself comfortable peeing with a backpack on, storing food in my pockets for nibbles here and there, and always on the lookout of snakes. The daily grind is brutal on trail...

... That being said, totally worth it.