April, I’m on My Way

As I spend an evening inside writing my first blog post, my thoughts were inspired by the one show that never fails to make me chuckle. So, here’s to an intro inspired by Questions Only from Whose Line Is It Anyway?

Q: “Why are you hiking the PCT?”

A: “Why not?”

Q: “Isn’t it going to be dangerous on the trail?”

A: “Isn’t it more dangerous to walk the streets of a city at night?”

Q: “Aren’t you going to spend lots of money and be broke at the end?”

A: “Don’t you make money to spend it?”

Q: “What are you going to eat?”

A: “What am I not going to eat?”

Q: “Who are you?”

Hi all!  My name is Justine and next year I will be attempting a NOBO thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Throughout my life I’ve worked extremely hard and lived in a structured and routine way.  Graduate high school, go to college, graduate college, get a job, save for retirement. A good number of decisions made for the happiness of 55-year-old me who wanted to retire comfortably (trust me, ask all my friends how much I love talking about saving money!).

After attending the funeral of a relative a few months ago, I decided it was time to STOP making excuses for why I was not making decisions that would lead me to a happier life in the present.  My first step: To make a change in my routine.  A big change.

Ever since I was a kid growing up and backpacking in Oregon, the PCT was on my mind.  I came to the conclusion that if I did not attempt the hike in 2020 I would never do it and would regret it (immensely).  So, I told myself. “I am going to do this S#!@!”  I started telling my friends and family one by one, thus solidifying my goal and an avenue to hold me accountable in case cold feet ever came (I see you, March).  My family is an incredible support system and I can’t wait to make them proud. My dream is now becoming a reality in under 130 days. April start date I’m coming for ya!

 

Me and my gear on a training hike in CA!

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Comments 5

  • Lance A Goehring : Dec 2nd

    Nice post, Justine! Looking forward to reading more and seeing you on the trail. I start late April.

    Reply
    • Justine : Dec 7th

      Thank you Lance! Looking forward to meeting you out there!

      Reply
  • Christine Taylor : Dec 3rd

    We are the same age. I start April 24. Hope I get to met you. We can do this:)

    Reply
    • Justine : Dec 7th

      Awesome, looking forward to seeing you out there. And yes we can, all it takes is a little bit of walking 😉

      Reply
  • Deet : Dec 7th

    Rock on Justine! Best time to do this is now! I’m 57 and doing the AT next April. Enjoy the journey.

    Reply

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