Grandpa's Trek along the PCT Trail

A few pictures of the trail....

2011-08-16T07:17:00.000-07:00

I APOLOGIZE...I'M A LITTLE BEHIND AND DAD IS WAY AHEAD ON THE TRAIL...

2011-08-16T06:56:00.000-07:00

Hi there....

What a busy summer this has been, however that is absolutely no excuse for not updating dad's Blog in a timely manner! Shame on me...(slaps wrist). Ok...

I can't even remember exactly when/where dad joined the trail again (that's so bad!), but he is back on it and is progressing well!! To make it a little easier, I'm going to "insert" his email to me recently, which explains his doings/goings as of recent. The weather has been warm but I'm feeling at ease with the fact that he reminds me (and I remind him, if he DOESN'T remind me) that he is listening to his body and takes a ZERO day when he feels the need. He hasn't been able to share too many pictures but has said that he's taken numerous with his phone.

Here is the email that dad sent about a week ago on the 8th of August...

"I'll just give you a summary of thr last couple of weeks, Have hiked over 250 miles and over some rough country. Left the Castle craig area the first stop was Etna Mount Shasta continued to dominate the horizon, as I left interstate 5 and climb to the crest; where the terrain is more rocky and sparsely treed, the expansive views were incredible as i wound along the route changing directions often, finally reaching Etna summit. The Town is 15 miles NE but got to the road and a couple was just getting ready to head down the mountain and gave me a ride so diden't have to wait at all. I was glad for the day and 1/2 that I spent there, as i had twisted my ankle and needed some down time. There is a place there that the hikers meet so was glad to hear some of the stories, and also an update on the trail and snow conditions. I had slipped going around some snow and tore my britches and shirt, so got some dental floss at the store to use for thread on the britches, but the shirt I had to use duct tape to hold it together, I have been pretty much alone as the couple I was going to hike with never showed up or were out of sync with the schedule.

Anyway after a good rest and some good meals the next stop was the little town of Seiad Valley, This section makes a beeline north through the Marble Mountain wilderness with only minoe elevation gain and loss in the beginning followed by a dramatic decent to the Klamath River and Hwy 96 Then you go west through the town famous for it's 5 poung pancake challenge. This is also the last town in California that the trail goes through. The next section follows Hwy 96 briefly before clombing steeply to complete the final leg of the Calif PCT. You are soon in Oregon. The route turns east and finally reaches I-5 12 miles from Ashland at Siskiyou Summit.

In summary the hike has been good. Very steep and long climbs made it difficult to make really good time. I have been getting som 20 plus mile days but hike about 12 hours to do it. A funny experience, I use that foil wrapped Tuna Fish as a suppliment to my top ramon noodles, anyway I didn't use the whole package so put the rest in a zip lock bag. Well, it leaked all ove my pack and got all over the tent, Not a problem, except we are in bear country, My understanding is bears like fish. So I thought maybe I could put the remaining fish in the creek and it would wash downstream and fool the bears. Well it just sank, so i took some rubbing ointment and rubbed on the tent, thinking that may fool them, anyway I didn't get much sleep but my sinuses were clear in the morning.

I have been a couple of days with Dell and Janel (my Cousins here in Medford) and will depart in the morning headed for Crater Lake 107 miles North, Want to get as far as possible as will leave the trail for convention at Boring, and looking forward to that.

Will keep you posted..."

So, there you have it! I will attempt to post a couple of pictures that dad has emailed me, however, 3 of them are from his hike in May. The most recent is title "The Trail". Again, thank you for following dad on this journey. He sounds great when I talk to him and know that he will continue to do good as long as he "listens to his body".

Tootle-doo until next time!!

Sunday, May 29th - Winds blowing at 50-60 knots and rain.

2011-05-30T10:49:00.000-07:00

Dad called this afternoon and said that he was back in Tehachapi...what? That's backwards. Well, here's the story. They left Tehachapi on Saturday and got about 6-7 miles out (approx. 4500' level) and decided to put up for the night right there. There were winter warnings and gale force winds (approx. 50-60 knots, he said) and he couldn't even set up his tent, so laid his sleeping bag right out on the ground and crawled in. At about 2 am it started to rain. Not what a hiker wants when the wind is already blowing ferociously!! He put on every article of clothing he had and put a garbage bag around the bottom of his sleeping bag to try and keep partially dry. At around 6 am he decided that he'd just get up and walk on ahead to see if he could reach a wind break. So on ahead he went to approx. the 6200' level (by himself, mind you). At this point the wind was blowing so hard that he could literally push his body forward and not fall down. He did come around a ledge however, and the wind got him and knocked him down. His reaction was "Well, this is nuts". So he got up and decided that it wasn't probably the safest thing to continue on by himself. So back down he headed. He reached the other party that had gone as far as the night before with him - still in their tents (smart people). Dad decided since the wind was still howling and he was drenched to the skin and his sleeping bag was sopping wet, that he'd head back to Tehachapi to dry out and warm up.

He found/called a trail angel to see if he could get a ride into town and she said she'd be there in 15 minutes. Sure enough!! She took him into Tehachapi where he decided to forego the typical Best Western for a po-dunk hotel. Po-dunk was right. It had no heat and no towels in the bathroom, which he didn't discover until he'd already taken the last layer off. Needless to say, it all ended up ok. He took the longest, hottest shower he could stand, got something to eat and was ready to wait the weather out until it decided to let up; wind and rain.

To be continued....

Saturday, May 28th - Tehachapi!!

2011-05-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

Dad called briefly this morning and said that he reached Tehachapi. They were gearing up to start out on their next 80 miles. There is some rugged terrain to maneuver as they are getting up into the mountains. Please be careful dad!!

I have 120 miles behind me now!!

2011-05-30T10:42:00.000-07:00

Dad left me a voicemail on Thursday evening, May 26th and said that he now had 120 miles behind him. He didn't mention "where" he was, but my guess was out in the middle of no where. He was having a ZERO day that day and would hit the trail again in the morning. Goal is still to reach Tehachapi by Saturday.

I've got 75 miles behind me!!

2011-05-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, May 24th dad called and said that he'd put in 3 16+ mile days so far and had approx. 75 miles behind him. He was getting ready to settle into a little hostel in a "hiker town" in the middle of the dessert (possibly called Lonepine-sorry, can't remember). At one point he needed to write something down and said "wait a second sis, I need to go and put my head lamp on so I can see." :) Somewhere along the way, he managed to find/talk to someone that coincidentally was heading up to Kennedy Meadows, exactly where he wanted to meet his car at the end of this leg. So now he doesn't have to worry about his car getting to where he hopes to end up; but now just needs to focus on getting to his car! Dad said that according to weather reports, they are about a week ahead of the heat which is perfect for the desert walk ahead this week.

Dad sounded good and said the hike was going really well. He hopes to reach Tehachapi by Saturday, the 28th. I'll keep you posted...

And he's ready to go at it again ... Dad's return to the Pacific Crest Trail

2011-05-22T16:30:00.000-07:00

On May 17, 2011, dad called and said that he was going to join the trail again, for a few weeks anyway. He's starting out where he left off almost exactly a year ago, which is at or near Agua Dulce, Calif. He was going to leave the next day from Madras, OR (his home) and drive down to where he'll hit the trail.

After almost a year "off" (off the trail), dad's been busy working on this, that and everything in between, leaving little time for rest, relaxation and recuperation. As of late, he's felt the need to get away. What better way to relax than to walk a trail and enjoy God's creation all along the way and even meet new friends!!

Dad plans to keep in touch every week, give or take, so I will update his blog as soon as I have something new to share! Thanks for following him!!

The Trek is not to continue.....for now.

2010-08-02T09:07:00.000-07:00

Okay, let's see...a lot of time has gone by since I posted and I'm not really sure exactly why, however I guess I'll just start off by saying that the trek is not to continue, for now. While off the trail, dad has dr. appts, some miscellaneous jobs to complete, a massive garage sale and a family reunion to attend. So....his time was taken up with things of necessity!!

This past week, not sure which day, he did travel back down to Ashland (sp?) to commence his trek along the PCT Trail once again. However, within an hour of getting on the trail, he received a call from the couple he was to meet up with as to not have to walk the trail alone. This was the same couple he was with when he had to leave it. Low and behold "Mr" had just blown out his knee and couldn't continue on the trail and he and his wife had to leave it - with great disappointment. So....this left dad feeling a bit uneasy as he didn't want to go it alone and not many were walking it as the snow pack was still too great to allow anyone to pass through, in certain areas. This year has been very unusual as far as snow is concerned. Not many people are brave enough to continue on a trek that has with it so many dangers.

So dad wondered exactly what to do....then, not long after the first call, he gets another one from a fella that he's done a lot of work for in Bend. He asks dad to help him do a "fire cleanup". It was a freak situation where an old house got struck by lightening, the lightening travelled through the wires to the electrical box and started a house fire. Unfortunate. So facing no companions in his trek and the offer of some work, he decided to go off the trail himself. In his words, "It's on the back burner for now".

Dad did the best that he could when he could and for now is content with that. He's keeping busy with his jobs, getting rid of stuff and proving to us all his version of retirement is a little different than ours!! I don't think he even has a rocking chair!!

Thanks again ya'll for all your words of encouragement during these last few months. I know they meant the world to dad when he needed them. This is another reminder that God plans the way and we just live day to day! And if the trek continues down the road, you can bet this Blog will too! Adios!

DR ORDERS..."GET BACK ON THAT TRAIL".

2010-06-12T10:24:00.000-07:00

Had a quick message from dad last night stating that he'd seen the dr. again this week and his report/orders were "Get back on that trail". So sounds like dad is going to work for about a week and then head back out to join others on the PCT. I know that's really where he wants to be. Am glad his body/soul have had rest and been restored; preparing him for his trek, once again. Not sure of the 2nd kick-off date, but will certainly keep you posted. His knee is doing fairly well. Dr. said the litte "ring" between his knee joints may be what is giving him fits and if it wears out, then "we'll just make an incision and put a new one in". Why do doctors make everything sound so....well, simple??

Have a super sunshiny week-end ya'll.
We'll be back....stay tuned!

The "break" is lasting a little longer, for good, GOOD reason!!

2010-05-30T13:29:00.001-07:00

Hi again,

Nope, I haven't forgotten any of you! Dad made it back to Madras (home) thanks to his close cousin, Frankie. After a few days of rest for his knee (at Frankie's son's house), it was evident that he was not wanting to go out and hike 300+ more miles with the possibility of something serious possibly being wrong with his knee. So.... on Monday, Frankie drove dad back home so that his Dr. could take a good look (and x-rays) of his knee. Well, this took place on Thursday and on Friday, the doctor called and said that the xray didn't show any damage to bone, etc., and that it was possibly pulled muscle and/or tendons but that he wanted dad to make another appt. with a different dr. down in Bend on June 11th. Dad said that he would most likely not attend that appt. His words were "By that time, my knee will either have fallen off or it will be healed". Sounds just like dad... He did said that each day his knee feels a little better and he contributes that to just taking it easy and letting it heal. Said it was a little swollen, but that he thought it was getting better.

His plan is to take it easy all of next week, making it possible for him to attend one of our annual christian conventions at Walla Walla - lucky duck!! When he gets home from WW he'll take a serious look at "things" and make a decision regarding his next "move" forward. He isn't keen on "giving up" the hike at this point, especially if there isn't anything seriously wrong with his knee.

So, time will tell and hopefully, if all goes (heals) well, he'll be back on the trail putting one foot in front of the other.

Thanks again for following dad's blog and all your words of encouragement. They have meant more than you'll ever know. I will keep you posted as soon as there is NEW news!!

Stand by!! ~Kim

Taking a Break...

2010-05-22T20:49:00.000-07:00

Talked to dad tonight. He has decided to take a day or two (or three...) to allow more time for his knee to heal. Hopefully that will do the trick. He tried his pack on and walked a bit and it was a no go. His cousin, Frank's (and Dee) son came and picked him up today from Agua Dulce and brought him back to their house, which is about an hour away. He is relaxing and enjoying his time there with them and his super special cocker spaniel, Lucy. They offered to keep Lucy for him while he was on his journey. He was so happy to see her again, but she had some "forgiving" to do before she'd get too close. After all, he left her!! It wasn't too long and they were cuddling together...fast asleep in the chair.

I will keep you posted on "the next step"...

Pictures!!

2010-05-22T20:33:00.001-07:00

Here are more pictures of dad's journey. They start at the top with the most recent and then go back as you scroll down through them.

1st picture is the "view" of Agua Dulce as they were approaching it on Friday morning. They had camped about 3 miles out the night before.

The next picture is of Vasquez Rock, which is the site where some of the Star Wars episodes were filmed.

The next picture is of some rock formations along the trail.

The next 2 valley pictures were taken as they were com'en over yonder the mountain. One of them was taken looking back east where they had come from.

The beautiful picture of the purple flowers was amazing beauty in itself. It was growing out of a burned out bank that was a result of the bad California fires from last year.

The next pictures are of the area where they hiked - either of where they had come from or where they were going.

Picture of a river that they had to cross.

Picture of the trail along the mountain side in a distance.

AGUA DULCE - MILE 455

2010-05-21T22:02:00.000-07:00

Dad called tonight and sounded good. I will attach his email that details his week. He has done so well to communicate via calling and emailing from his phone! That takes patience. He also sent some pictures, which I will down load tomorrow, after I talk to him again so I can add descriptions to them. (He called me from his dark room - no lights - so couldn't read his notes to me about picture descriptions). He rode one of the bikes down the hill tonight for a bite of mexican food and realized real quick, when he was riding back that he uses way different muscles biking than he does hiking!! He could hardly make it back up the hill!!

The fact that he has lost 18 lbs is a bit worrisome .... he did say that he needs to get it figured out (his diet) or else "he won't be there when he gets there". I thought that was quite funny. He said, "I'll just be a shadow".

The trail angels where he is staying tonight and tomorrow night in Agua Dulce drove him into REI 24 miles r.t. to exchange his pack. The new one is a bit heavier, but has wider waist straps and better situates on his back when filled. The other one was rubbing and had thinner straps.

Here is dad's email and remember, pictures will be included tomorrow. Thanks again for sharing in dad's journey.

"Will try to get an update. Monday we were dropped off at the trail head at 10:15 am. Due
to fire closure we had to use an alternate trail. Made 15 miles that day.

Tuesday we hiked 21 miles. Had to do some road walk due to trail closure. It was very hot and
windy.

Wed was a very hard day with over 20 miles covered, only to find out we were in a restricted
area. We were advised we could be fined and imprisoned. Apparently the pcta assn had made a
mistake on the maps they had circulated to the hikers. Anyway we got it straighten out
and were allowed to pitch our tents.

Thursday 18 miles down very steep mtn side and the trail was not maintained due to the
closure. We stopped a couple miles outside of Agua Dulce for the night.

This morning (Friday) we came on into town to the Saufleys. They are trail angels and often have as many as 50 hikers here. They have tents, cots, shower facilities to accommodate all. Pretty amazing. (He had his very own room, complete with bed and is enjoying a bit of privacy for once).

To summarize I have been on the trail 30 days; have hiked 25 of them; have covered 455 trail
miles (plus 20 or so off trail). Figures out a little over 18 miles per day average. I have
lost about 18 lbs. I will have to correct that or I will be all gone pretty soon. I have
had a couple real hard days but am glad for the experience and the help of the holy
spirit. One has much time to reflect and meditate . The hymns have been special. I plan
to take a zero day tomorrow (Sat.) and see how the knee feels after a couple days rest. Its been
biting me on the long downhill sections."

The best to you all. Love DAD.

SUNDAY, MAY 16TH - WRIGHTWOOD - MILE 370

2010-05-16T20:38:00.000-07:00

Had another welcomed call from Dad this evening. He arrived in Brightwood around noon today after climbing, climbing and climbing some more. He didn't think he would ever quit climbing and his legs are TIRED. He's sharing a hotel room tonight with a real nice young fella he met either yesterday or today that seems quite motivated as well. The couple he ate with at McD's is still hiking with him also, so he's glad to have some "company" again. The gentlemen (from McD's) is a former park ranger for the Grand Canyon for 24 years, so has some excellent trail experience to share.

The first picture is of the mountains that he will have to navigate (detour) around since they are not passable because of snow. The second picture is of the LA basin in a distance - you can see the haze and fog
The 3rd picture is of the trail and possibly able to see Hwy 15 below...

I think I have the pics in this order, if not, you'll know which one goes with which description.

He was telling me today that the "angel" that had root beer floats waiting for the hikers a couple of days ago; after visiting with her, come to find out her parents live in Ferndale, WA (which is just north of where I live here in Bellingham). Small world.

He was reading his bible along side the trail and another hiker came upon him and inquired what he was reading, Dad replied "I'm reading my guidebook, it's the best one out there". He is keeping encouraged.

They have a ride scheduled for around 10:00 am tomorrow (Monday) to head back to the trail. It will be a long week and possibly that long before we hear from him again. Thanks for your comments, I read them to dad when he calls. He appreciates them ALOT!

Have a great week!

Saturday, May 15th - taking off bright and early heading toward Wrightwood.

2010-05-15T07:37:00.000-07:00

Dad called last night and also emailed some pictures!! He's going to enjoy his rest in a bed again at the Best Western in Cajon Pass. Even got a soak in the hotel hot tub for a couple hours - yes, it does a body GOOD!

The orange jeep belongs to a man that uses it to shuttle people to and from the trail and town.

The pictures of the steep hillside/cliff is of the trail. If one were to make just one slight wrong step, they probably wouldn't be heard of again, he said. Be careful dad!

The two pictures of Big Bear Lake should go side-by-side, but of course, I can't figure out how to do that. They are beautiful!

The other pictures are of more of the trail - it just winds in and around there. He said hardly any part of the trail is just smooth. It goes up and down, around, etc.

The hazey picture is of Lake Silverwood. That is where he camped out Thursday night (my previous post).

The final picture has some humor - notice all the drink containers and they got them refilled more than once! Dad drank 3 cokes and had a 20-pc McNugget meal!! Guess you gotta get revived at McD's if you're gonna walk the PCT!!

Week in a nutshell:
Monday, 5/10 he left Big Bear around 8:15 am and went 23 miles. It was so cold on Tues am when he got out of his tent, he had to shake the frost (from him breathing inside the tent) out onto the ground before packing his tent up. Brrr

Tuesday he went 22 miles to a hot springs - pools made out of stone. Clothing was optional, but he was glad that those there with him were of the same mind as him and wore "something". Ha That 2 hour soak felt wonderful to the bones.

Wednesday he was in Grass Valley and it was really hot that day. Only hiked 13 miles and came up on a van along side of the trail that served the hikers root beer floats (prev. post) Yum!!

Thursday they hiked 15 miles to Silverwood Campground where he was able to shower and shave again. Whew!

Friday he hiked mostly by himself and arrived at Cajon Junction.

Dad said that he is beginning to understand what he didn't understand and that was just how he would be able to keep up or otherwise. He's found that he's going too fast and most of the people he started with are behind him. So he's going to adjust a bit and take needed breaks. He's been just going at "his pace", but those of you that know him, know that "his pace" is usually faster than everyone elses!!

He feels great and says that his legs usually tell him he's had enough after about 15-16 miles. Feet are great and he's still very motivated and enjoying his experience.

Until next time - walk on dad!

MORE PICTURES!!! MILE 343

2010-05-15T07:31:00.001-07:00

HE'S ALMOST TO HWY I-15!!

2010-05-13T21:19:00.000-07:00

Dad called tonight around 7:20 pm and he is approx. 14 miles from I-15. He sent up his tent by a stream near Sherwood Lake. Got a shower and was able to wash his shirt too! He's had a busy week; covered 24 miles on Monday 5/10 and also 24 miles on Tuesday. Yesterday (Wed) and today he only did around 14 each day. Said it was really hot, but it's going good. Came across another trail angel yesterday that had root bear floats ready for the hikers. The same "angel" that provided the root beer floats also ended up taking him clear into town (24 miles and back) to get some more hiking clothes and wouldn't accept even a penny! Those angels are amazing, they show up out of nowhere and are always a welcome site indeed. Dad hopes to be at Cajon Junction tomorrow and will send more pictures to share of his journey. He sounded good, but tired and was ready to call it a day. We'll add more hopefully tomorrow night or Sat. am. Thanks for tagging along this "journey" with him. I share all of your comments and encouragement with him as they come in.

Picture Descriptions...

2010-05-08T21:34:00.000-07:00

When I uploaded this batch of pictures, they didn't upload normally for some reason and looked like a bunch of gibberish, so I wasn't able to determine where each picture was and add descriptions to each. Sorry. These 9 (I know there is 10, but one is a duplicate, sorry) pictures are from between Idyllwild and Big Bear and are beautiful territorial and scenic pictures. The pictures are of either where dad HAS walked the trail or where he WILL walk. The one of the snow pack was one of the first little snow packs he went through. He said they got wider and wider and deeper and deeper and (he says it got "scarier and scarier"). The mountain picture is looking back at Mt. San Jancinto after he had already walked it. Enjoy!

PICTURES!! Coming into Big Bear

2010-05-08T21:20:00.001-07:00

BIG BEAR (town, not the real thing!!) MILE 268

2010-05-08T20:18:00.000-07:00

Dad called today (Sat) a little after 11 am. Was good to hear his voice again after having not since Tuesday. He is in Big Bear and arrived there last evening around 7:00. He is taking today and tomorrow off as his body needs a rest and he needs to restock his food supply too. He shared some more pictures that I will post with this. I will also include his email that he sent as well. Two days ago was the most grueling day so far and toughest day mentally, hiking up a river bed. Said his pack felt like it weighed 80 lbs.

One thing he hasn't done is lost his sense of humor, it's definitely still there. He washes his clothes in the river every couple days (if there is a river, that is) and while he's doing that, he wears his rain gear so he has something to wear!! He went to the grocery store there in Big Bear today and the clerk asked him if he had a card (one of those discount store cards, I imagine) and he said "no, I'm from out of town." She asked what he was doing in Big Bear and he told her he was walking the Pacific Crest Trail. The lady hollered over to another lady and said "this man is 72 years old and he's hiking the PCT." The other lady said, "are you a hiker, cuz I can't even smell ya." Guess there are some that come through there reeking of a pretty ripe "foul" oder. Anyone that knows dad, knows that it is rare for him to go past 1 day without shaving or showering. So this has been a little bit of an adjustment for him. There is no doubt that he will bath whenever and where ever it's possible!

He also came across some prisoners that were out working on work release cleaning up and maintaining part of the trail, I guess and he said "So, ya working on the trail?" They said "ya" and he said "why don't you make it flatter".

Today he was able to pick up a solar phone charger from Radio Shack in Big Bear and so he's hoping he'll be able to take more pictures and use his phone more when reception is available.

Ok, I'll include his email (the photos weren't downloading correctly, so I'll load them later, so watch for them:

"I am at Big Bear. Got in yesterday about 7 pm, have had good hard days of hiking, it was 98 degrees in palm springs when I came to I-10 freeway just west of palm springs, left that area and headed up into the mountains, really steep climb for the first 4 miles or so only hiked about 12 miles and came to the white river, where I took a bath in the river. The water was cold but it was so hot out, it felt good. Decided to stay there the rest of the day and cowboy camped that night. The next day was a long hard slog up steep mountains and rocky trail. Its really incredible the views you see from the area. Made about 18 miles that day. The next day was a very difficult hike up a river bed, the trail was not very well marked so spent time searching for it, everyone said it was a slow day for them also. Camped at a remote campsite that night, more climbing the next day. Got into the snow on the north side of the high mountains, was not really prepared to deal with that, but others had gone before and was able to kick in steps along the steep slopes. My legs and ankles are sore today from that. Got to about ten miles from Big Bear and there was a trail angel with chests full of fruit and other goodies. He said he would bring me into Big Bear to the Hostel where I was going to stay anyway so took him up on it. I've had a hot shower, shaved and had a good bed to sleep in. I had hoped to connect with someone for meeting tomorrow, but after numerious calls I finally got hold of Jeff Gilley, and he checked it out for me and the folks that live here in big bear are at convention. So i will have my little mtg here, there is much to encourage along the way, and have been thankfull for the wonderfull help of the spirit. It has been a great help to me. Out in the wilderness I have been surrounded with Gods handywork and it is indeed incredible. My plan is to go out from here and hike about a 20 mile section with a slack pak, not all the stuff, and then stay here another night, This is the first time for a zero day since starting and I think the body needs it. Our next rest place will be up the trail a couple hundred miles. My phone is not working well enough to do all I wanted on the trail, but will stay in touch as often as possible. My thoughts go to all I love and hope the best for each one. Untill later the best to you all", Love Dad

Mile Marker 210 - Glad to be down off the mountain!!

2010-05-04T21:30:00.000-07:00

Dad called at about 7:20 pm tonight and had a little life left in his cell battery so gave me a quick update. They hiked 28 miles since yesterday noon and he said it was the most grueling so far and that he is very glad to be down off the mountain. It's very windy. They are about 15 miles southwest of Palm Springs and close to Banning. The fwy - Hwy 10 - is about 1/2 mile from where they are staying tonight. He had his tent set up and ready to crawl in as he's very tired. His feet are doing good but his legs are sore tonight as a result of coming down the mountain with a heavy pack jarring on them. Remember he's carrying extra food and water this jaunt as he won't be able to replenish until prob. Fri or Sat. when he hopes to be at or near Big Bear. That will probably be when I hear from him again. He's anxious to get to a computer to send another email because he said there is lots to share. We will also anxiously await that too! Sweet dreams under the stars dad!!

DAY 13 - THE 178 MILE MARK

2010-05-03T20:26:00.000-07:00

Dad called around noon today and sounded good. He was in Idyllwild (just southwest of Palm Springs) and getting ready to hit the trail again. He had a good rest last night - yes, in a bed!! He expects to cross Hwy 10 in approx. 2-1/2 to 3 days and then will head towards Big Bear. He got stocked up with food this morning to last him around 5 days. They did have to do a detour around a portion of the trail that was deemed pretty treacherous (a matter of life or death, as he put it), so was glad to hear about that decision. He reassured me that he wasn't going to take any chances. We will look forward to hearing from him in probably 3-5 days. He did mention that some have quit the hike already for whatever reason, but that he continues to go at his own pace and ends up meeting everyone at camp in the evenings. All for this time!

PICTURES!! SCROLL DOWN...

2010-04-29T22:50:00.001-07:00

109.6 MILE MARKER - WARNER SPRINGS

2010-04-29T22:12:00.000-07:00

I was very happy to hear from dad tonight since he said it would be a couple days last I talked to him on Tuesday. He stated they have had some miserable cold and very windy weather and are glad to be down off the mountain now. They are spending the night in a motel in Warner Springs tonight (Fri 4/29) and looking forward to sleeping in a BED for a change, I'm sure. Dad loved his 3-hour soak in 102 degree temp hot springs today. He was talking to a friend before leaving on this hike and the friend's response to the 2,656 mile walk was "Wow, I guess life doesn't begin at 40". I will also attach dad's email tonight and we have some pictures now!! Yay!

"I will try to bring you up to date on the trip. I have hiked 109 miles and am in Warner Springs. The weather has been very bad the last two days; up to 70 mile per hour gusts. Glad we were on the side of the mountain where the wind was blowing us into the mountain rather than away. Lots of sheer drops and lots of very steep terrain. Trip has been good as far as the hike is concerned.

There is much to write about and so much more to see. On Sunday morning I got up at 1:30 in the morning to shower, I forgot my towel so had to use toilet tissue to dab myself dry, I thought it may be interesting to all to know it takes approx 31 feet to do the job!! We hiked to Mt laguna on sunday afternoon; a real climb and hot. Camped there and left early the next morning for the Sunrise Hwy crossing, arriving about 5:30. That was a water supply. Have had to carry up to 5 litres of water so the pack has been heavy, I think about 34 pounds with all the stuff. The next day was to Scissors Crossing about 18 miles about. About 10 miles out someone had set up portable showers and a snack bar - boy did that feel good. We got into scissors crossing about 5:30 and made camp. The next day we hiked almost 22 miles. There were terrible winds and very cold. Finally found a place to camp off trail. It was cold and windy and rained in the night so everything was wet this morning (Fri 4/29), Anyway we broke camp at 5:30 and headed on down the mountain, when we got to Barrel Springs there was some trail angels with hot coffee, toasted bagels and fresh fruit. What a treat that was!! We were there about 45 minutes then continued on to Warner Springs. There is a hot springs there and that was very nice for some tired bones. Had a good supper at the local cafe so will probably head out tomorrow am sometime. We have to resupply here. The snow is very bad in the mountains so may have to detour around some of the bad spots. All is well and have had no trouble with the feet. Know that the hide glide that I have been using is the reason. I use it every morning, I will try and send some pictures. will let this be all foe now. Love you all Dad"

Dad standing on the Monument the day he left 4/21

Dad is experiencing a first, fjording a river - Brrr!!
Standing at Eagle Rock today (4/29) - Find the eagle?
The crew enjoying their first break eating the 2 lbs of banana bread dad brought. He was glad to get that out of his pack!
This was at Sunrise Hwy approaching Scissors Crossing on Tuesday 4/27.
Lake Moreno at Kickoff!

"Just putting one foot in front of the other!"

2010-04-27T21:00:00.000-07:00

Heard from dad around 5:00 pm today. He is at mile marker 78 at Scissors Crossing. Aiming for Warm Springs in around 2 days. Just got done hiking 19 miles today and he's doing well. His cell battery had just a little life left in it and he said we probably wouldn't hear from him for a couple days.

That's it for this time. Short, sweet, to the point and a relieved daughter!! Nice to hear his vibrant voice today.

BOY, HE SOUNDED GOOD!!!

2010-04-23T15:06:00.000-07:00

Dad called today (Fri) around 12:30 pm and sounded really good and like he was, well, walking the trail. I could hear the wind blowing in the background. He said it's been cold but that they're all doing well. There are some that walk a little faster than he does and some that walk a little slower than he does. He said he's usually around 15-20 minutes behind the others. Said he's letting his body warm up before he "takes off". Oh, goodness...

Julie talked with him too and had this to share..."Say, I just talked to him, and he said he’s 35 miles in so far. He’s heading back to the campsite. He said the weather is supposed to lift up Sunday, so they’re planning on heading back out from the campsite early Sunday morning. He’s going to stop along the trail at 10:30am and have his little meeting. He said, “when you’re praying in meeting, I will be to.” Cute, huh?

He said he sent 4 pictures, but I didn't get them. He's going to wait to re-send them again when phone reception is a little better. Come on Verizon, don't fail us now!!!

Please feel free to offer any words of encouragement knowing they will be passed along to dad.

BRRR!!! - NOT WHAT HE EXPECTED...

2010-04-23T10:27:00.000-07:00

Heard from dad yesterday (Thurs. 4/22) around 3:49 pm - sounds like he's ran into some weather that he was not anticipating, which is too bad...

"After I arrived at the campsite was treated to supper courtesy of a trail angel.pitched  my tent and crawled in about 8 30.  This morning the plan was to get a ride up go mtn  laguna and hike back to the campsite.  I got up there and it was snowing hard. The wind  was blowing hard and it wax zero visibility . Needless to say I was not prepared for that  so came back to the campsite.  They are forecasting 18 inches of new snow by tomorrow  night (Fri 4/23) so¡¡¡¡¡¡¡ we will see what happens. At least I will be hiking with others in a  couple of days.  All is going well but did not anticipate this bad weather.  Will send  more later." Love you all. DAD
I will keep you posted as I hear more . . . hope he's taking pictures!!

6 Miles In!!

2010-04-20T11:05:00.000-07:00

Julie talked with dad at 10:00am - After hiking 6 miles, he’s was sitting on the top of a bluff overlooking the California/Mexican border – eating a loaf of banana bread. 6 of them started out together and were sitting there together. He sounded awesome!

Arrived at the Trailhead

2010-04-20T09:47:00.001-07:00

Had a quick email from dad and he arrived at the trailhead at 7:13 am this morning...wonder what he thinks NOW!

AND HE'S OFF!!

2010-04-19T17:02:00.000-07:00

Dad took off from Bend, OR at 8:15 this morning headed for San Diego with a quick stopover in Portland. He was due to get into San Diego at 12:40 pm where the "trail angels" were going to meet him and his hiking partners (who got there about 45 minutes earlier) and take them home, feed them dinner, put them up for the night in what will probably be their last real "bed" for a while and then feed them a breakfast in the morning before taking them to the trail head!! He said that his pack weighs 16 lbs. Doesn't sound like much, but when you've carried it every day for over 2600 miles, I bet he'll beg to differ!

Still can't believe this is all really happening and hope for super days ahead for dad. I know there will be times that he thinks he's "crazy" for doing this, but how is one to ever know, unless they try it. Good luck dad, Happy Walking, and walking and walking...!!

Getting Ready...

2010-04-06T19:12:00.000-07:00

Dad and his tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, guide books. Oh, and walking sticks that also serve as the tent poles!

Assembling the tent.

It's a spoon, fork and knife all in one. I would say "spork", but knife has to fit in there somewhere too!

This is the most compact camp stove I have ever seen! It will boil a pan of water in around 3-4 minutes!! We got a demonstration - so it's true!!

Dad getting ready to demonstrate just how his compact camp stove works. It was amazing!

Getting Ready Cuz It's Really Gonna Happen!!

2010-04-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

Dad has wanted to participate in this adventure for some time now, so come April 20th, he will begin his journey all the way UP the Pacific Crest Trail. He found a traveling partner that has done some hiking of his own on other trails and so agreed to accompany dad on this trek!!

We just got back from visiting dad before he leaves and were able to take a few pictures of his preparations and belongings. Doesn't look like very much to me, but I guess when all you're doing is putting one foot in front of the other for miles and miles, you wouldn't want to pack much. He's got everything all figured out just about down to the very ounce, so has been very conscious of what he's putting in his pack. His spiritual lifeline will be his bible and his natural lifeline will be his new Blackberry Storm that he's getting acquainted with.

We hope ya'll enjoy this blog and we will do our best to update on a fairly regular basis. We welcome your comments and encouragement along the way.