I have heard of Burney Falls for years but have never been here before. What a beautiful sight! If you are wondering where the water in Northern California is, you need to search no further. I’m not sure how many gallons per minute flow over this enormous falls but it’s enough to make you wonder if this drought is a just a hoax! There’s a lot of water in that there fall.

  Leaving Burney Falls was bittersweet. I was hiking alone but in great spirits and ready to tackle the trail ahead. This section is one of the most anticipated sections. I am entering a forest like none I have seen. The trees are numerous in variety with pines, oaks, cedars, firs and redwoods. The ferns are as tall as I am, while the dogwoods are thick and lush, blocking the trail. Sprinkled abound is yes, poison oak, the nemesis to many a thru-hiker. I am quite sensitive to this plant but praise the Lord, I have escaped the wrath of oozing blisters. I dawned my rain pants to protect my legs and already had my arms covered. Rain pants were much more like a sweat suit as it was brutally hot. But not a single poison oak bump on my sensitive skin!

 The farther north I head, the closer I get to Mount Shasta which is twofold. I am making my way out of California, the longest state to hike through and I am reaching the most magical and mystical mountain. There is something incredibly romantic about this mountain. It is said that if the snow melts off Shasta, it will erupt. I’m not sure if that’s a fork lord but I’m thinking it looks better with snow on it.  Once I made it to Dunsmuir I went off trail for the evening. A very dear friend Muriel picked me up along with three other very dirty and smelly trail friends, drove us to get our resupply boxes then to Dunsmuir.  I did the usual, took the longest shower possible without the water police knocking at the door, did my laundry and went out for grub. Muriel found a great pub and we caught up on trail life and all the things I’ve missed in the passed three months.

 I have a few hiking partners on the trail which passes the miles much more quickly. We have had such fun on the trail, laughing with one another, praying over injuries that occur daily but most of all, having others to share your everyday trials and tribulations, and the ever present pain and sorrow that is part of life on the trail. God designed us to be in community with one another. It is so much to do with who continues and who goes home! Without a connection with others, you truly can lose yourself while trekking. During lunch, I continue to read my Daily Bread, a devotional that sparks conversation and gives us something to ponder during the hours of hiking. 
 During the last week, it seems like the main theme on the trail is “where’s the smoke coming from?” There have been many smoke filled days that have plagued my lungs and I have found many uses for my bandana. The best is wetting it in a stream and tying it around my face. It helps some but the best course of action is finding a place to get off trail for a zero day! At this rate, I’m not sure how much forward progress I am making but the good news is that I am not alone. Many others have joined me on regrouping and finding ways to escape the heat and smoke. I found a nice river to soak in until the thunder and rain started. Hmm, probably not the safest place to be but it definitely got my core tempature down a few degrees. While at a watering hole, I met a young hiker and we shared our faith. It’s interesting the places we congregate. It almost always is near food or water. Some things never change. 
 So nearly four months later, and close to 100 hiking days on the trail, I finally exited this beautiful state of California and entered Oregon. Oh happy day, when I skipped across the California-Oregon stateline. For me, it was an amazing milestone, over 1700 miles and less than 1000 miles to Canada. When I reflect on my time on the trail, it seems like only yesterday when I started but how I have seen Gods grace and unwavering love. I believe that my biggest lesson is knowing that God knows my heart, that he knows who I am and that he sees me for who I truly am. I cannot be anyone else than who he created me to be. He has no preconceived ideas of what or who I am because he knows me so personally. When others view me, they can see who I am on the outside but God knows who I am on the inside. And that is so comforting. I so enjoy the time on the trail because we truly are who we are! We cannot be anything else than real, there’s nothing to prove! We accept each other for our strengths and weaknesses, we embrace our gifts and flaws, we do not judge one another but accept each other and because of that, we can truly flourish and become who God designed us to be. I love the fact that God sees us as he designed us, perfectly beautiful and wonderfully made. 

  Let us not be weary in doing good, for we will reap in good season if we don’t give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us to good will towards all men and especially towards those that are in the household of our faith. 

Galatians 6:9-10

God is great! He knows me so well. With my three months of time on the trail, I have found absolute freedom and complete love. This past section has been somewhat of a return to the desert. Not that I need to relearn lessons of the past, but literally it has made me reflect on lessons lived!

  Leaving Bucks Lake I was renewed and refreshed. Having a Nero Day (not quite a day with no miles but less than 20 miles) can feel like a respit for the soul. I had a couple of excellent meals, cleanish clothes (laundered in the sink) and a bath, after scrubbing down in the shower, of course! Once I hit the trail, it was uphill and glorious. The trail was perfect, like carpet with meadows, wild flowers in amazing bloom and absolute quiet. Once I was in my right frame of mind, quiet was welcome. The peace you can only find when you are filled with the Holy Spirit. Nothing else matters, just walking with the Lord is all that one needs. I met two hikers this day, both asked me (totally God ordained), what is your purpose? It was a message from above. He wanted me to verbalize and rehearse why I was out in this place so raw and vacant of hikers. Each time I shared what I was hiking for “to share Gods love on the trail”.  This was a great reminder that I was right where I was suppose to be!

   I hiked up and over Bucks Summit  towards Belden. I had no idea what this town was all about and you literally walk through it. First of all, I’m not sure if population 12 equates to a township? However, there were 150-200 people lightly dressed, as I came walking in with shirt, skirt and shoes which made me feel completely overdressed. I called the trail angel and she came and whisked me away. The Brattens bought a ranch style home just so they  could cater to weary hikers. Such wonderful people on the trail that look out for us.

   Leaving Beldon, I had a 5000′ climb. The good part was that it’s over 15 miles so not too terribly steep, but just a long slow slog. I met a nice young man named Lifesaver, because he helps out stranded hikers with gear, water and anything you might be missing. Hence his name. He is section hiking and he tagged along with me for a couple of days. We had meaningful conversation about faith and religion. I found him seeking, wondering if Jesus really was the Son of God? God put it on my heart to share with him all that Jesus did on earth, his miracles, his love and compassion but most important, his resurrection and forgiveness. I never know who I am going to meet on the trail and as I have been told by many thru-hikers, you know everyone! My slower pace allows me to meet more people and I do believe that’s what I’m suppose to be doing out here. 

  Good news is I have made the Half Way point of the PCT, 1325 miles to Mexico and 1325 miles to Canada. I’m choosing to continue north and by God’s graces, I will be there before the end of September. Lifesaver was with me as we crossed the half way monument and we celebrated with dinner. He had Top Ramen and I had soup. No champagne or wine toasting but we enjoyed the accomplishment of  knowing the first half was behind us! Praise God for keeping me safe and sane as I place one foot in front of the other and share in his graces along the way. 

  Mount Lassen was my next hurdle. Lifesaver left the trail at Chester and once again, it was me and the Lord walking side by side. Of all my hiking partners, Jesus is always there. He never twists an ankle, never gets too tired, never abandons me and is always constant. We walked through this beautifully manicured forest after the many obstacle courses of the past few days. I was wondering if there was such a thing as trail maintenance since I was climbing over, crawling under or bush whacking through. But now I was in the land of perfected forest management. What I would give to have a trail like this in my backyard! It was stunning. Manzanita, both low lying and bush like, coniferous pines of all sorts, perfectly groomed trails with lush undergrowth under my feet and lovely blue skies. I visited Lassen NP a couple of years ago and fell it love. It truly is natures wonderland. 

   As I left Lassen, I entered Hat Rim Creek, however there is no creek to speak of. It is somewhere between Lassen and Shasta, the Rim of Fire is now upon me. When I left Old Station, my trail friends “The Ravens” hugged me and wished me well. I was wondering why they were so concerned but it became quite clear. Hat Rim is the hottest section of the trail. Some proclaim it is worse than the desert! It is a 29.4 waterless section on top of a plateau and is quite barren. There are sparse trees but once again, you are fighting off the cows for the shady spots. I left much too late as I stopped at JJ’s for breakfast. By the time I was into my twenty plus mile day, the tempatures had soared well into the nineties. By 1:30 pm I was frantically looking for shade. I do not like heights nor do i like heat! So for about two hours, I rested till I could move on. My pack was topped with six liters of water which was to last me through the following day. As long as I stop when it’s hot, I do conserve water. So rest it was till the heat dissipated. I found a lovely ridge line that I pitched my house on. Each night, I build my house of sorts, tent with inflatable mattress and miscellaneous stuff. I have definitely downsized, sending stuff home regularly but I’m at a point that everything I have is a necessary part of life on the trail. And that keeps my pack weight down considerably. As I was settling down, God painted this incredible picture perfect blazing sunset. I am forever in awe of his mighty handiwork. The thought of seeing Mt Shasta means that California is coming to an end. And I am ready to hike in another state. Just the thought of being in Oregon is welcomed. California is one long state!
  As I finished the Hat Creek Rim, I came upon a hind leg of a deer. That was a bit unnerving as I could only imagine some big cat had left it behind and had all intentions of returning. Needless to say, I walked a bit faster, but did not run as the big cat would want to chase me down. Another fear of mine, mountain lions! Oh my, amazing I make it out of my tent daily. After miles and miles of waterless, dry timber and brown grasslands, this water preserve appeared. There were cranes, white swans and pelicans floating in the water. It was so lovely and such a welcome sight. I had to soak myself which immediately dropped my core temperature down to a reasonable temp. Oh how I love water! The thought that truly all we require in manna and water. And God provides us with both. Whether we are wandering through the desert or the mountains, He has us covered. 

  The next few miles led me to Burney, a quaint town with properly clothed people and all the conveniences of home. My personal trail Angels Eva and Keith whisked me away to Mt Shasta for two days of rest and relaxation! The fine things in life were available like flush toilets, a bed with sheets and two pillows, and all the food and drink a hiker can devour. 

 So lesson learned this past week: All I truly need is God’s love. It’s interesting because it comes in so many different forms. Whether it is the way He paints the sunset or the sound of a bird chirping early in the morning. His love can be found through other people on the trail, their overwhelming kindness and incredible generosity. Gods love can be the warmth I feel from the sun or the flowing water over the trail when everything else seems so dry and dusty. When I take the time to listen for his breath, to look for his workmanship, to fellowship with others, I am amazed by all the love that surrounds me. God truly is love. I have felt nothing but His amazing presence every moment of everyday, as long as I take the time to walk the trail. 

 My friend Stacey Hansen had her 3rd grade class send letters of encouragement to me. Below is a beautiful picture one of her students drew for me. 
Know in all things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels or demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, not anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is found in our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 8:37-39 

So I thought afternoon thunder showers come in the afternoon? In Plumas County, thunder and lightning start just after 10am. Yep, and they last till sunset! Nevertheless, I am wet and may have the beginning onset of the Oregon blues. And to think I haven’t made it out of California yet! But sunnier days are on the horizon.

  I spent the Fourth of July with family and friends in Truckee. It was so nice being with everyone but most difficult to leave. All I could think about was I could walk home in a couple of days or head back on the trail for another two months?!? I’m not sure who was more upset, my grandson Sid who asked me why I was leaving for another 100 days (which in fact was only 79 days and a wake-up) or my husband who explained the first week or two was like a vacation but five months, that’s much too long or my best friend who was hiding her tears behind her big dark glasses! We all hugged and I took another step closer to Canada. 

  This has been the toughest week. Not physically but more mentally. I believe I am the strongest I have been since I left the academy some thirty years ago. However the trail is thinning out. The thru-hikers are slowly dwindling down to the ones who truly have something special that keeps them motivated! I have God who hasn’t given me the pass to go home yet. I truly feel that he still has work for me to do out here. 

   From Truckee to Sierra City I saw six other thru-hikers over 42 miles. There were earlier days where I would hike with 20-25 others. I was feeling a bit lonely and constantly asking myself if I needed to continue? I headed into Sierra City for a burger and fries and met the cutest 80 year old couple sitting on their front porch. They live on Main Street with an awesome view of the Sierra Buttes. They invited me back for morning coffee and a ride to the trail. So with their prompting and Gods grace, I headed back up and I mean up, the trail. 4000 feet and tons of switchbacks! What a beautiful view from up above. God has a way of waking me up by having me climb his magnificent mountains and knowing he created this all for us!

  As I hiked the trail meditating on his word, my journey became more of a walk in faith and knowledge of who God truly is. To think that we could not bare to stand in his presence, that he is so great and mighty and that no man has ever seen his face. To think we can have a relationship with God, one that he desires more than we can fathom. The fact that he knows every thought we have, even the ones we don’t speak! There is nothing he doesn’t know about us, and there is nothing too big for him to handle! So when I was feeling down and not sure why I was still out here, my God brought me a wise woman to minister to me! 

   It had been raining most of the day and I was feeling weary. I also had miscalculated my water needs and was dry with no water ahead for another three to four miles. I crossed LaPorte-Quincy Road and saw a forest service truck parked. I thought, hmmm they should have water. Sure enough, the Battalion Chief exited her truck, provided me water, emptied my trash and provided me what she promised was the best MRE’s the government provides, spicy penne pasta with vegetarian meatballs! I was a bit skeptical but my fuel was low and so I gave it a try. I shared with her my ministry on the trail and then she witnessed to me about her God fearing faith and love of Christ. It was exactly the encouragement I needed to carry on. Thank you Jesus for loving me and sending your earthly angel!

 The following days were filled with trials and tribulations but somehow there was a mixture of peace sprinkled in the midst. It would rain most of the day but as I set up my tent, the skies would clear just long enough for me to get inside before the rain came back. As I hiked down the trail, I had a wasp that must have thought I was a flower, hard to believe if you could smell me! He decided to place his nasty stinger in me and ouch, I did what any good hiker would do and smack him silly! Then as my ankle hit a rock and began to roll (job ending for a thru-hiker), So I I jammed my carbon fiber pole down, and that darn thing snapped in half! Seriously, what else? But as I made it to Feather River bridge, I found a letter addressed to me from a hometown friend Marilyn who just so happened to be hiking the trail. Enclosed was a super sized payday bar! So needless to say I gobbled that up and proceeded to have a much better day! As I made it to camp, God painted me the perfect pink and purple sunset and sprinkled the sky with a stars, something I hadn’t seen all week!

   I made it to Bucks Lake, a bit off course but I truly needed to dry out and warm up! This has been an overwhelming yet incredible week. I have learned so much these past days but my number one lesson learned is all I truly need is God! When everything goes unplanned, when all my earthly hiking buddies leave the trail, I still have Jesus walking with me every step of the way. He will never leave, never forsake me, in the rain, thunder and lightning, he is always there! I truly have my very best friend still trekking along and he plans on making it to Canada and beyond! So I am in it for the long haul, feast or famine, rain or shine, thirsty or both, we are in this together. Thank goodness, because I’m not sure that I could make this journey solo! 

   Advise from a Trail by Ilan Shamin: Walk in beauty, stay on your path. Find inspiration around every turn. Tread lightly. Pack life with good memories. Every day has its ups and downs so watch your step. 

Can it get any better? When I left Sonora Pass, many thru-hikers had jumped ahead due to a fire near Markleeville. Fortunately, the fire was moving away from the trail, and I had the green light to carry on. God has been keeping such a watchful eye over this journey and protecting me daily. 

  Sonora Pass is a magical place. It is unlike any other area that I have hiked! I have never been to Bryce or Zion but from pictures I have seen, this section of the PCT is much like it. There is an obvious influence from volcanic activity of yesteryear. The mountains are so colorful at every turn. As I crested the peaks, I could see the Sierra’s in the background and this extreme environment ahead. It was truly the most beautiful section that I have trekked, to date, on the Pacific Crest Trail.

  I was honored to have my friend Mary join me on this section. She is an avid hiker and up to the challenge of hiking 15-20 miles a day! We experienced every emotion from joy, peace and solitude to pain, suffering and exhaustion during this leg. Neither one of us had any idea what God had planned for us!

  Honestly, I felt like Jesus’ bride walking through His perfectly colorful and fragment garden. The wild flowers were in full bloom with every color of the rainbow represented. From the orange and red tiger lilies to the deep purple lupine to bluest columbine to white and yellow mariposa lilies, and so many other brilliant arrays of garden flowers. There were fields of mule ears  that extended as far as the eye could see. Natures toilet paper, soft on the bottom and biodegradable! 

 I believe that God had orchestrated this master plan that I was right where He wanted me and this was the confirmation. Every moment I could see his workmanship, from the lack of smoke in the air from the fire that was burning a few miles away, to the most intense sunrise and sunsets that I had ever witnessed. God had painted a perfect view of his love and grace and I was in the midst of it all!

  During these past weeks, I crossed another milestone of sorts. Entering Desolation Wildrness, one of my many stomping grounds, I hit the 1,100 mile marker of the trail. It’s not quite half way but it is one of the places that I return to year after year and have questioned many thru-hikers about their adventure. Now as I trek through this place, many prospective hikers are asking me questions about my journey. It is quite interesting to be on the receiving end of questions like “are you hiking solo”, do you carry a tent”, “aren’t you afraid”, “when will you finish”,… I love sharing my story with others and get a kick out of their shock when I tell them yes, I am hiking solo; Yes, I have a shelter and highly recommend one; no, I am not afraid because I have the Lords protection; and I plan to be in Canada by mid-September, 160 days after I started. 

  So what did I learn during this past section? God showed me patience. He made me more aware of everything He created for me. He brought me friends to hike with that would teach me to slow down just a bit so that I wouldn’t miss all his blessings. He made me focus on Him so that I could be more aware of how truly powerful God is. I witnessed his tender side as I took time to smell the flowers, and when I laid in my tent at night, I kept the door open so I could see the sunsets and sunrises in all their glory. The little things are so important and sometimes I don’t take time to really take it all in. Yes, I need to be to Canada before winter sets in but more important than the destination is how I get there! Thank you God for teaching me patience through your beautiful creation and sharing the power of my friends who helped me along the way. 

  May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. Colossians 1:11-12

As per my Brit Guide, this section is the toughest route of the entire PCT. Seriously? I thought the highest passes would be the hardest. So off I went, a bit skeptical but up for the challenge. I had a zero day and was definitely rested. My good friends Judi and Dee sent me off in fashion, turkey sandwich and good company. My personal trail angels Eva & Keith had done everything and anything a thru-hiker could ask for, washed my clothes, fed me, massaged my feet and provided me all the comforts that one cannot find in the wilderness. 
Back on the trail, I was in Tuolumne Meadows! How much better does it get than that? Lush green grasses, deer grazing, bear forging on twinkies, and men fly fishing! As I meandered down the trail, I remembered traveling this trail a few years prior. All of a sudden, it came back to me. This is a super crazy steep section of trail! No switchbacks, just straight up and knee breaking downhills! But beautiful waterfalls and scenery that reminds me that I am in some kind of special place!

  With good, comes better! I love this part of the PCT. It truly is God’s masterpiece! How much better can one place be? It has everything from meadows, grasslands, granite rock faces, abundant water cascades to unruly bears, prairie dogs and mosquitoes that have terrible manners! Okay so the critters are literally out of control! You are required to carry heavy canisters that keep critters large and small away from your food! And if you dare to question authority, well the price is $150 for non-compliance! I carried a bear canister and did not risk the fine! Most of us did as we were told. 

  
As I covered the 76 miles in four days, I often asked myself, “what’s your hurry?” The difference between a backpacker and thru-hiker is the miles you pack in , day in and day out. I typically wake up at the crack of dawn, 5-530am, hit the trail no later than 630-7am and hike for 11-12 hours a day. Sometimes I don’t get into camp till 730-830pm, build my house, fetch water, dehydrate something yummy for dinner-not, make my bed which includes inflating my mattress, rolling out my sleeping bag, wiping myself down with towelettes because the water is either too cold or its too late to take a bath in the prestine River or frozen lake, eat my scrumptious dinner, journal, pack my lunch for tomorrow, determine what’s for breakfast and finally hit the sack at 9-930pm (hiker midnight). Then up the next morning to work, another 18-22 miles. Yep, the joys of hiking daily. Is it fun? Well, it’s more like a job but it has rewards that money can’t buy! 

  
Yes, I truly love my life on the trail! God has opened my eyes to things that He can see. As I was sitting on the shore of Wilma Lake, rainbow trout were jumping out of the water like they were Dolphins on display like a Sea World follies ! If only I had a frying pan to catch them in, I would have cooked them up to order! Love fresh fish! But they were safe as I have no fishing license, let alone a line or lure to bring them in. But there were others, much smarter than I, who were eating some delicious lunch on the lake!

  
As I hiked this section, I met a beautiful woman named Dos. She had hiked the Appalachian Trail two times prior and was well on her way to add the Pacific Crest Trail. She had just finished the Florida Trail and I was amazed by this gal. She is my age but looks like a teenager! We spent four days sharing our love for the trail and God was once again, showing me I was right where He needed me to be! 

  
On my final day of this section, I had managed to somehow keep pace with all the youngsters of the trail. Barista, Full Roll, Easy Over and others who started with me and we all ended at Sonira Pass within an hour of each other! As I was nearing Sonora Pass, Mom and Dad were waiting for me, on the trail! They had sandwiches, potato salad, chips and the all important beer! Oh life is good! The last couple of days, I have been spoiled by bubble baths, manicure and pedicure along with getting my hair deep conditioned and colored. Gotta look good on the trail. 

  As I return to the trail today, there has been a fire threatening a trail closure. I had considered jumping ahead but really did not want to miss this section from Sonora Pass to Echo Summit. With the help of my dear friends Janice and Bertha, they committed to drive me to the trailhead with my hiking buddy Mary. Please pray for the firefighters who are working tirelessly to protect the homes in Markleeville and this beautiful landscape! 

 So what have I learned this past week?  God will be there if we take the opportunity to find Him. He has opened my eyes to nature, both big and small. To the waterfalls and the mountain springs, to the lakes and ponds, wading through the creeks and rivers and all the glorious trees, bushes and shrubs. My ears hear all the quiet chirps of birds to the loud cries of warning sounds from woodpeckers and quails. He has opened my nose to the distinct smells of the conifers to the recent cut down trees that had blocked the trail. And God has opened my heart to all that I meet on the trail! I had an encounter with a hiker who stated to me, ” if I had met you a few years ago, I would’ve never talked to you!” God knew I would meet this hiker at this time, at this place and where we would both be open to one another! Thank you Jesus for designing me, refining me and developing me into the woman who you desperately wanted me to become. And for being ever-so-patient! 
 Humble yourself before the Lord and He will lift you up. James 4:10

I have arrived to the land of milk and honey. When the Isrealites left captivity and were guuded to the promise land, this is what i have been experiencing these past weeks. My breath has been taken away, not from the lack of oxygen at 12000′ (yet it could have a small part in it) but from the beauty at every turn!

    
My friend Atsuko has joined me and is sharing this amazing trail with me for the next 150 miles. I have so enjoyed her company and having someone who is just as overjoyed to see Gods handiwork as me. Leaving Kennedy Meadows we encountered our first water source, the mighty Kern River. It is so powerful yet there are tubs that you can soak in and wash away your cares. I found a natural jacuzzi with bubbles and a perfect seat to rest in while my body was massaged from head to toe

 Everyday has been a journey of getting deeper in my relationship with Jesus. He has given me this enormous strength to get over tall mountains and cover long distances. As I headed north, it became apparent that the altitude was not the only obstacle but the weather was quite unpredictable! Daily we had snow flurries, mostly in the afternoon, which is a blessing compared to rain. Our first task was getting over Forester Pass 13118′ which is the highest point on the PCT. We went to sleep with snow on the ground, and woke to frost on our tents and very cold temperatures  This amounted to a perfect ascent day as we stayed cool and never overheated! The climb was gradual until the last false summit. Then we truly had to dig deep to get to the top. I am deathly afraid of heights so when we came around the last bend and the trail was blocked with a snowy cornice, I was ready to head back to the desert! Atsuko, my trail partner and super hero, plowed her way over a boulder field and guided me safely to the top. 

  Needless to say, God was with us every step of the way. Once over the tallest and most technical pass, we had snow fields that obliviated the trail. Fortunately there were many foot prints that guided our route and with the help of micro spikes, we made it slowly off the mountain. It snowed again that afternoon as we arrived in camp, cold and wet.

   Most thru-hikers resupply by exiting the Sierra’s by way of Kearsarge Pass. It takes you down to Onion Valley, off trail seven miles with a 4000′ descent. Atsuko’s husband Curt and friend Steve volunteered to resupply us. They made the ascent up Kearsarge Pass and met us at Kearsarge Lakes with all the food we needed for the next 100 miles. Needless to say, we were the envy of all the thru-hikers! I asked if they would be willing to be our Sherpas all the way to Canada? I’m still waiting for a reply but it’s not looking hopeful.

 Loaded with ten pounds or more of food but very grateful for our provisions,  we slowly trudged towards Glen Pass 11946′. We had been warned that this pass was, let’s just say, a bit sketchy. With the recent snowfall, the north facing slope was covered in snow. The approach was arduous but just place one foot in front of the other and you do make progress. As we stopped for one of our many breaks, we heard what sounded like thunder. Never a welcome sound as you reach a summit! As I looked to the east, I could see dust building as this gigantic rock fall had been activated. We watched in awe as boulders the size of cars were tumbling down the steepest slope towards a huge boulder field below us. Once again, we were protected as we were safely on the opposing slope observing this force of nature. After a good minute or two. the dust settled, the earth stopped shaking, and we carried on to the top of the pass.

 Prayer is a mighty and powerful thing! I am rest assured that I do not have to do this alone, but as I was flubbing my way down this mountain of snow and ice, I know Jesus was with me every step of the way. Not a scratch or a twisted ankle came my way and before I knew it, Atsuko and I were back on solid ground looking over the Rae Lakes basin.  If you have never been here, know that there is not another area so beautiful as this with the magestic mountains in every direction, the beautiful meadows that adorn this place, the crystal clear waters that house trout swimming in all directions, and the curious critters, marmots, chipmunks and picas looking for their next tasty morsel of grass, pine nut or occasional scrap left behind by a hiker. It is definitely heaven on earth. 
During the next week, we summited a peak a day. Pinchot Pass 12142′,  Mather Pass 12000′, Muir Pass 11789′ with snow on both north and south faces for a total of three miles, Seldon Pass 11898′ and finally Silver Pass 10910′. Each one had its own set of obstacles and rewards but as we continued north, I knew the awesome mountain scales were just a memory. I am definitely without a doubt a true sucker for tall mountains! There is something to behold when you are atop a wondrous force of nature, that allows you to lose your breath by the sheer magic of its’ beauty! Mountains make my heart beat like nothing else! One of God’s best creations, in my eyes, are the mountains that surround this trail. 

  As I bidded farewell to my friend Atsuko, I was back in my element of listening and meditating more with the Lord. When I left Reds Meadow, I had the option to take the direct PCT route or the revered JMT route that has much more elevation but has amazing access to lakes, rivers & waterfalls. So of course, JMT won out! As I left Reds Meadow in the morning, I met a nice hiker named Noah who just wanted to talk. Being the trail ambassador, I obliged and we shared many hiker stories. I moved on and met a young gal on the trail who was overwhelmed with all the trail was dishing out. I stopped and offered her a hug and shared some of my insight of the trail and we both laughed and carried on. God was everywhere from the people I met to the amazing beauty. As I was headed up to Garnet Lake, there were these color prisms that were reflecting off the clouds. I had never seen anything so spectacular that I shared it with others on the trail. They had not even looked up to see this Godly phenomenon. 

  My final day as I hiked into Tuolumne was sheer delight. It was day 18 without a zero day! I was totally exhausted but with the helping hand of Jesus, somehow, someway I made it up and over Donahue Pass and safely arrived at Tuolumne Meadows Lodge for beer and potato chips! Then my dear friends, Judi and Dee arrived with peaches, oranges and more beer! They know me, oh so well.

  So what did I learn from these past weeks? So much! But what God kept putting on my heart was community. He has introduced me to an amazing group of believers on the trail. Hikers I can pray with, share my heart with and love like family. I realized that wherever you are, in your neighborhood, outside your front door, at work or church, in your yoga studio or on the trail, there is always a place for us to share love and receive love. My community on the trail is young and old, likeminded and not, but what we all have in common is we love nature. We know that something great happens when we experience a place that is so remote, somewhat  inhabitable yet we still venture out and take a chance, knowing that we are never truly alone. God protects us and brings us together. He knew we would need each other and He also knew, we would be there at this moment! I just love that about our Lord. He has ordained every day of our lives and has placed people into our path. It’s our responsibility to make the most of each encounter and to be Godlike. I am thoroughly embracing my new position as a trail ambassador. Smile at everyone you meet, take every opportunity to help others and shine Gods love! Easy Peasy…can’t wait for what’s next. 

  The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in the sun-scorched lands and will strengthen your frame. He will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. Isaiah 58:11

I have officially completed the first section of the PCT, 702 miles of desert. It took me 50 days to hike from Campos to Kennedy Meadows but it seems like a lifetime when I look back and realize how many steps I have taken, the mountain tops I have conquered, the countless cacti and lizards I’ve communed with and the numerous friendships I have made.           

Leaving Tehachapi was bittersweet. My incredible husband and best friend George, along with my amazing dog wonder Zack, visited me and whisked me away to Las Vegas. George’s brother Sergio and my aunts and uncles Darle and Gerry, Gil and Ronnie all live there. What a memorable time we had together with our family but especially Sergio. He was recently diagnosed with liver cancer and thank God, we were able to spend three days with him, listening to stories of his life before coming to America, bowling a perfect game of 300, looking at his collection of minted coins, reminiscing of his lifetime hopes and dreams, but most special to my heart was his love for Jesus Christ! For the past ten years, he collected food from local stores & markets for the homeless and needy, then delivered and handed it out at his church daily! He had such a servants heart and I was so blessed by hearing his love for the community and the people that God so loves.  Sergio went to be with our Father in heaven while I was hiking my final miles in the desert. I will always remember that morning as one of the most peaceful days on the trail. The birds were just waking, the sun started to appear and the dew on the desert schrubbery was ever so present. I was speaking to God not knowing the fate of Sergio but I did ask if he was with our Lord, to help me finish these last miles with strength and fortitude. And I did finish injury free and quite strong!   

These last miles in the desert were a great reminder of the trail in its entirety. The day I left Tehachapi was the epic climb. All the hikers were talking about leaving early trying to beat the heat while giving themselves plenty of time to get up the pass. So in perfect disbelief, I left at 11am. Honestly, it wasn’t as bad as it was made out to be. But the wind, now that was a different story! Have you ever tried climbing a trail but the wind is blowing in your face so hard that you literally are standing still? Or better yet, you are walking uphill and you get a force of wind that hits your back so unexpectantly that it actually pushes you to the ground? Just imagine that for your first day back on the trail in five days. Oh the joys of a thru-hiker. And the power of our mighty God! 
   
Fortunately the wind did not last and finally I was able to have the true experience of hiking in the desert. The tempatures rose to the nineties, the water was nowhere to be found, along with the obvious fact that it was bloody hot and I was incredibly thirsty! We had a section of trail that was predicted to be waterless for over 40 miles. So what do you do? You carry as much water as you possible can and your pack is much heavier than it should be. But this is the wonderous PCT which means incredible trail magic is about to occur. A young thru- hiker Shutterbug’s dad, who I named Nomad Maxx, has been following his son along the trail. Any hiker who is in the bubble that surrounds Shutterbug which includes myself, is privy to the gallons of water that Nomad Maxx is providing. Needless to say, he has single handedly saved hikers from unbearable thirst, possible dehydration and certain death! Well maybe not death, but definite passing out. Along with water, he leaves the most juicy & crunchy apples along the trail with an occasional treat for me (Lindor chocolate) melted but tasty just the same! 

 
Outside the heat and waterless stretches, I have embraced all this glorious desert. The beauty as they say is in the eyes of the beholder. But anyone who has experienced a sunrise from the desert floor or a sunset on top of a ridgeline understands what I speak of. I had many times I was stopped in my footsteps just to admire the scenery. When I think that God first created this with His mere breath, when He spoke “let there be light and there was light” just boggles my mind. The fact that He created this beautiful and inspiring magesty for us to experience, to live and explore, seems a tragedy not to be walking through! When I lay in my tent and gaze up to the stars and He knows everyone of them by name, countless and numerous stars and galaxies that are still being created, it’s no wonder there are so many people hitting the trails.  

 As I finished my last few steps in this desert section, I think of Gods mighty strength and love for all of His creation. My lesson learned this week is the most important of all and that is faith. Just as I sit in my tent and write this I think of the fact that God always provides! When I was tired and knocked down by the wind, He picked me up and carried me to my next destination, appropriately just outside the Wind Farm. When I was wondering how I was going to carry enough water for two plus day of hiking, he brought Nomad Maxx with a carload of water! When I was on my last breath and wasn’t sure how much more I could travel, He painted the most inspiring sunset which made me forget how much my feet just wanted to rest. And near the end of the desert, this amazing couple Chief and Chief’s wife set up their trailer and provided foot baths for all the weary hikers that came hobbling in! Why does God do this? So we know Him and trust in Him and realize that we do not have to do it alone! With faith, all things are truly possible including hiking 702 miles in the desert!    

“I know what it is like to be in need and I know what it is like to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in every or any situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything in Him who gives me strength.”  Philippians 4:12-13

  
A final note. I am now entering “The Sierras” and there will be no internet for possibly two to three weeks! Therefore my blog will be on hold till I search out a connection. I would love for you to pray for the safety of myself and my many trail companions as we attack the numerous high elevated passes. There has been many late storms as of May and much needed accumulation of snow. It will truly be an experience of a lifetime and know that God will protect and provide. Godspeed and keep the faith! 

Slow and easy, that’s what this section has been. I left Hikertown at 10am which is slug time for a thru-hiker. Never ever would you get on the trail later than 6 or 7am, but it was a flat walk across the desert following the aqaduct for miles. Welcome to road walking. I find it harder to walk roads than to hike up and down mountains. I’m not sure why? The monougtany of seeing the same thing for miles or not seeing the trail meander, can kill you with boredom! But once you let your guard down, is when God gets your attention. We were 6-8 miles into our hike when we saw her. A Mojave Green Snake! She was apparently dead being she didn’t hiss or move. We cautiously went up to her as she layed still on the roadway. I had never seen a Mojave Green before, just heard of their deadly venom. It was actually sad, seeing her motionless. My trail friends Treeman and Hedgehog were with me and I could tell Hedgehog was quite upset about it. She bent over & moved the snake off the roadway, laying her in the desert as to provide her a proper burial. 

    
During these past 40 days on the trail, I have had a chance to truly witness God’s smallest of creatures in action. Ants are fascinating how they are so organized and are able to burrow through rock solid dirt and somehow turn it into fine sand. I watched as an ant carried a fellow dead ant on his back, as if he was returning him home. Beetles are funny solitary bugs. You never see them together! They just walk across the trail with their butts in the air and their head scraping across the ground. They remind me of thru-hikers. We are basically solitary, leaning over with our eyes on the trail and a big shell on our backside!

  
Then there are the lizards. It seems that the smaller they are, the faster they run. I see them lounging on rocks, basking in the sun, watching over their kingdom, and doing push-ups as if they are preparing for battle. They do like to chase each other, and there are many variety of lizards out here. There are moles and squirrels, chipmunks and skunks and the beautiful and noisy birds. I believe I am falling in love with all of God’s creatures, big and small.

  
I am getting close to finishing the first of five sections of the PCT, 702 miles of desert, Campo to Kennedy Meadows. I was so concerned about this desert section, that it was going to be too hot, too flat, too much desert, but it has been an amazing and beautiful place. I will always remember it as my beginning, my baby steps that are building my foundation for the Sierras which lay ahead. I truly have been in awe of this vast and ever-changing place, and thank God for bringing me here, teaching me to love and accept this wonderous creation that His son wandered through for forty days. I do believe my relationship with our creator has been strengthening during my walk in the desert, and this will help guide me towards Canada. 

Less than 150 miles before I arrive at Kennedy Meadows and venture out into my beloved Sierras. So what have I learned during this past week? Take it slow & easy, and be present in every situation, every moment and every step. God has given me this time to feel his presence, to see his creation, to smell every scent along the way, to hear each bird chirp and to love all that God loves! I will forever cherish my first forty days in the wilderness, with all the highs and lows, and all the lessons I have learned. Thank you Lord for being with me through it all and loving me enough to show me who you truly are! 

  
“Walk away quietly in any direction and taste the freedom of the mountaineer. Camp out among the grasses and gentians of glacial meadows, in craggy garden nooks full of nature’s darlings. Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.” John Muir

So much has happened since Wrightwood. This is the first internet connection I have had in over a week! I think I’m entering the place I truly want to be. While I was hunkering down in Wrightwood waiting for another storm to pass, my wonderful friends Judi, Bertha and Cherryl wined and dined me. I felt like a pampered princess with foot massages, facial masks, fresh food galore and some of my favorite wine! I never expected such treasures to occur on this journey and to have friends visit me and spoil me, is such an added gift. Thanks girls!

   
After the storm, I headed out of Wrightwood and the first day was a climb up Baden Powell.  With the fresh snow, it made for an interesting trek. The snow was light but quite slushy, but with trail runners and light socks, I had very wet feet. Burr! But oh boy, the forest was incredibly beautiful with the snowflakes and fairly clear skies. On top of Baden Powell, I was looking down on the clouds, almost like heaven above earth. It was spectacular. Words cannot describe the vista from up above, mountain scape 360 degrees with fog rolling in below and birds flying above. Nothing but Gods glory shined on me!
   
These past miles were interesting with the ever changing landscape. We started high atop the mountains and followed the Angeles Crest Highway for miles. I passed the 400 then 500 mile marks, more milestones along the trail. I had many things to keep my attention on the trail like the notorious poodle dog bush, the evil nemesis of the trail. It smells like a combination of eucalyptus and marijuana but has a reputation of sending people off trail to the ER. It can cause blisters and inhalation issues if you touch the stuff. There are sections of the trail that have been closed due to this terrible bush but thanks to the PCT Gorillas, they spent many months trying to remove this stuff from the trail. One caution, it grows back and don’t smoke it! Some crazy hikers who thought it was marijuana attempted to pick and smoke it with horredous results! 
   
I had some incredibly long trail days trying to knock off the miles but in the end, I realized that my body is adapting to the trail and 20 mile days is quite doable. It also helps that I am motivated by my stomach knowing the faster I hike, the sooner I can get to real food! God has given me strength to stay focused and strong, however still have time to appreciate what He has created. 

    
Diversity during these past weeks has been a theme. As I leave the forest, and see the approaching desert, somehow the two still enter mingle. There are cactus flowers that show up among the forest, desert in the distance, oak trees with lots of poison oak, sandstone slicing through the ground, and so much beauty in every direction. 

  
Storms have been a common theme since Idyllwild. It seems that winter has arrived a bit late this year. As I left Aqua Dulce, another cold front hit with a vengeance. As I attempted to climb up and over the mountain time and time again, the wind was blowing at 30-40 mph and then the sideways rain pelted me! I finally had enough, found a ravine and waited it out. Full roll, a wonderful young man, stopped during the downpour and tightened my tent so I wouldn’t blow away! Hiker trash amazes me with their kindness and how they take care of each other. 

  
Now that I am defrosted and sitting in the confines of Hikertown USA, I have so much to be thankful for! The lessons I learned this past week is that God will always provide. When it was snowing outside, my friends came and reserved me a room. When my water ran dry, there was a mountain spring flowing across the trail. When I heard that my dog Zack was not doing well and had my first cry on the trail, a very caring young boy offered me a hug for free! When the rain turned from sideways rain to freezing rain, God stopped it long enough for me to set up my tent, get my wet clothes off and slide inside my nice warm sleeping bag. And as I was warming up, the skies opened up and what a downpour it was! But I was safely cocooned in my Six Moons Lunar Solo tent. I love that tent. And lastly, as I walked down the mountain, my beautiful trail friend Bear Bait was waiting for me with a lovely smile. 

  
But he said to me “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness”. Therefore I may boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.  2 Corinthians 12:9

I’m back in my hometown of Wrightwood. In the 80’s, this was my stomping grounds. My son Billy went to kindergarten here, both my children learned to ski and this was the place that I entered my career with the State of California. Very fond memories and entering the San Bernardino mountains has been one of the highlights of my hike to this date. 

  
As I left Big Bear, the PCT followed the north rim of the lake. It reminded me much of the Tahoe Rim Trail looking down on the water below. It was stunning and a beautiful backdrop before heading into Holcomb Valley. Just a bit of nostalgia, Holcomb Valley was known to produce the largest find of gold in Southern California. 

  
The trail has been good to me this past week. I entered the area of much water, Holcomb Creek, Dry Creek and the Mojave River. Long went the days of carrying liters upon liters of water as the creeks and rivers were flowing. What I wasn’t expecting was the barren landscape due to the past fires. 

  
As I past through this area, God spoke to me in such a way that I will never look at a fire scarred area the same. He shared with me that when I accepted His son as my savior, my sins were washed away! Just like a fire that sweeps through the forest, all the old is removed, the rotted trees are devoured, the brokenness of the terrain is refined, the infestation of mold is radicated, and it is all made new again. Reborn! I could see the beauty of the new growth, the pine saplings that were pushing up through the earth, the tiniest flowers sprouting, the birds and bees returning to this once scarred area ready for renewal and rebirth. Only God can see the goodness in something that we find ruined, and accept what is truly beautiful in His eyes. 

I had so much time to reflect on Gods word, His kindness and love, how He has protected me during these past weeks. He showed me that balance in life occurs when He is the cornerstone, the centerpiece of our life. As I was nudged to take this photo, I only saw a pile of rocks but when I looked at my photo, it was so clear that there was a cross perfectly placed on the cornerstone of these boulders. God has to hit me over the head at times to get my attention, but this brought me to my knees! When I quiet myself, only then can I hear His voice and follow His lead. 

  
This has been a week of incredible blessings. I have found water easily, my strength has surpassed anything I could imagine, I have met new friends and seen old trail friends that I thought were far ahead, and God has brought me a super hero trail buddy to keep me company. Deborah who goes by “Doc” or as I call her “Running Bear” came into my campsite a few nights ago tired from hiking 20 plus miles. I told her she was welcome to share my tiny sand spit as I planned to cowboy camp, that’s camping without a tent! We hit it off and ends up she is a friend of Jules, my past hiking partner. We have hiked over 60 miles together in the past three days and we plan to head out of Wrightwood together. I love hiking in solitude, but I also enjoy sharing my adventure with a friend. The past couple of days we have managed to chase down a very large black bear, hike in 50 mph gusts without being blown off course, sleep in a den of scorpions for a very short time, five minutes to be exact, and share much laughter on the trail. 

  
So what have I learned this week? Quiet myself. In the midst of noise, pressures and daily humdrum, it is difficult to hear God’s voice. However, when I take time to stop and listen, I can hear God speaking to me ever so clearly. He wants to have a deeper relationship with me, more that I ever knew and I am so enjoying our time together! 

  
“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10