Packing up Portland. Countdown: 5 days.

Okay. Shit is not quite real anymore. It's been unreal.

I have not scribed any posts for over a week. Mainly because I am overwhelmed trying to do everything before I am finally gone. I was able to figure out how to get my website/blog to work on my iPad (mini), so I can write updates while on trail. Work is (and has been) weird, but my last day is tomorrow. My rad coworkers purchased me these sweet hiking poles (which they all signed encouraging words onto), compass, and para-cord bracelet. So kind. I am going to miss engaging with such awesome people. Working for PNCA has been a great opportunity, but it is now time to move on in life. I'M OUT! Adam is heartbroken, mainly because he knows no matter what we do, say, feel, share... that I am leaving. I am heartbroken too. He is my best friend, and he feels like I am abandoning him for the world. Unfortunately, he is kind of right. We have been hanging out every few days, but are both rollercoasters of emotions. Hung out with tons of friends the past week or so too. Thanks Alyssa, Guy, Emily, Alec, Lanita, Jonathan, Leah, JD, Eilif, Alex, Noah, Michelle, Tim, Josh, Nikki, Chris, Joan, Nate, and Nan for the awesome hang-out sessions. Other friends are getting ready to come hang out Saturday at Fire on the Mountain (I think I have had food there once a week for the past 4 months trying to get it all out of my system). Lacy's beer will be ready that day too! Got rid of the piece-of-junk red Volkswagen that has been dead and sitting on the curb for over a year. Ordered these cool bee-hive gaiters for the desert section. Got my hair cut from the incredible Blaine. Had my I-Ching read by Nan. She believes I am going to return from trail a different person, focused on things and with a new outlook on the world. I have drank copious amounts of beer. Been to a few shows. Masturbated lots... I'm almost all ready.

Just over a week ago at Lucky Lab, I met up with past thru-hiker BEER (It's his last, and became his trail name... slightly jealous) who gave me the most positive trail encouragement yet. His tone was, "Get ready, Katie. You're going to have the time of your life."

Time to remember this: You are going to have the time of your life.