Starting

The logistics of this year's trek has been more difficult than prior years; how go get our stuff safe in San Diego and back home, how to get to the trailhead, where to get water, where to get fuel and matches, whether or not water caches and sources will be there, will the heard wipe out store's supplies, just to name a few.

This year, like all the others, new magic in the form of angels, namely Scout, his wife, and Nitro, have turned a lot of stress into blessings.  I just never thought the magic would happen this soon into the hike.

As with the other years, the goals are few, but are fixed and the same.  The main goal I have is one I learned from Dude.  It was to simply revel in the moment, to enjoy the time one the trail, in the towns, whatever; something that is lost, if not impossible to attain, at home.

This will be my last entry until it is over in a couple weeks.  I am taking along a small journal, the same one that I have taken every year, to jot down feelings, sites, and experiences.  It will be interesting to see how Amber deals with the mileage, heat and distance, but kids are pretty resilient.  I want to thank my Mom for watching Amber's cat, My uncle who is transporting us from Warner Springs or wherever we end up, and Scout for supplies and transportation to the trail.

P.S.  My son, I will miss you every day I am away and will call as often as I can.  All I can offer for the time I am away from you is what you want and desire most;
a day of XBOX for every day I am gone. : )

-Atouk