It's Scheduled!

Today I reserved my spot on the shuttle to Crazy Cook, the start of the CDT.  April 21 is it!  It's exciting to have a definite date and finding out what other hikers are starting at the same time.  But amidst all of the planning there's a lot going on.  My nephew is getting married in Florida this weekend so I'm flying down, my sister is having a baby in a couple of weeks & I'll be spending a week helping her out, I'm researching possibilities post trail, helping my boss complete the sale of his medical practice and more.  So I'm thankful for this blog which gives me a moment to ponder.

I've been thinking about a lot. Change. Adventure. Uncertainty. It can be scary & exciting both, whether it be retirement or a long walk.  But I feel mostly eager anticipation for what lies ahead.  I've been really touched by the well wishes and interest I've received from our patients at the physical therapy clinic where I work, and other people in our building.  Having friends, roommates, family, and everyone else be a part of my hike means a lot.  So I will attempt to document all the ups & downs, sunshine & storms, mountains & deserts, characters and ensuing hilarity with you all.  Stay tuned...

Shoes!

The postman left these for me today!  They are Altra Lone Peak trail runners.  I discovered Altras a year ago and love the wide toe box.  They are also flat or "zero drop" which is a more natural type of footwear.  Happy feet, are hoping for 0 blisters. None!  Now I can start packaging my resupply boxes and working on an itinerary.  I bought my plane ticket today too.  It's a long way to Crazy Cook the start of the CDT!  It'll be plane, bus, & auto...

Overview

It's really happening.  I'm hiking the Continental Divide Trail!  I'm so excited.  Ever since hiking the Pacific Crest Trail I've been thinking about the CDT.  I figured it would be a while before I could do another long trail.  However, with my job ending due to my employer retiring the opportunity is here.  I have the gear and the time.  So this blog, "Dispatches From the Trail" will document my adventure.  I hope you enjoy it and perhaps get inspired to go for a hike yourself, whether it be for a day or longer.
I also want to put in a plug for Oregon Active.  They are a great organization that I recently discovered.  Right away it felt like a good fit for my hike and this blog to support.  They are a non-profit that provides Adventure Therapy for people in the community "affected by life challenging conditions".  Visit their site, meet the people they mentor.  Thier stories are inspiring.  Check out their programs and become a member, volunteer, or donate.  They simply rock.
And...Let the planning and preparing begin!  I haven't settled on a date yet but it will be mid April after the 15th.