Priorities

Numerous hugs and kisses from my two and eight-year olds for no apparent reason brought forth a feeling of melancholy. 

As much as I dream of thru-hiking the PCT, I dreamt of them first.  With my primary dreams fulfilled, everything else in life is simply gravy.  To take myself away from them for five to six months would be unbearable for all.  For now, I will let the passion of a thru-hike atrophy.

With that said, what is life without gravy.  Again, I am blessed with time off to continue my hike through the deserts of southern California, heading north. 

Last year, my wife was not yet scheduled for surgery from an injury.  My son, who was one at the time, fell very ill.  And Amber, my eight-year old, cried herself to sleep every night as she missed her daddy that has never been away from her for more than a week.  So with a cheerful heart, I sit in my den, and plan out a month of my life.  A life of freedom, deep thought, exploration, led by passion.  This time, it will be a different experience.  I need it to be different.  No deadlines.  No overanalyzing.  Just simply walk, eat and sleep.  Having simplified my life in many ways, there are no worries haunting me as I hit the trail.  No problems that are yet to be resolved.