T-Minus 10 weeks…

I realize 10 weeks is still 2.5 months away, but as the end of spring nears and the start of the summer looms, my flight to Seattle will be here before I know it.   I start my southbound Pacific Crest Trail trek mid-July!

I am quickly approaching crunch time, and I call it crunch time because I still have so many adult responsibilities to attend to before I even feel comfortable getting on the plane!

The Financials

In the time since I last posted, I have been working non-stop!  Traveling to different states, selling jewelry, and teaching a lot of yoga in between. While I recognize that money is not everything, having enough liquid for this thru-hike is extremely important to me.  In fact, during the past 9 years, I have worked diligently to pay off all my debts: student loans, credit cards, car, etc.  A major reason I waited to hike the PCT is that I wanted to do so with a clear conscience… and that means no debt.  I am happy to say that I am 100% debt-free!  (Thank you, Dave Ramsey!)

The Housing Dilemma

Next on my list: my studio.  I love where I live in San Diego, and I would like to return to this space upon my return.  But, with a rental situation, no roommates, and no family nearby, I have a couple of options. 1) I sell everything, leave my space, and deal with housing upon my return.  That does sound liberating; not gonna lie.  2) sublet.  That’s more realistic and absolutely feasible in SD.  I just have to get over my ‘only child syndrome’ and accept that it is ok for someone to be in my space and using my stuff.  I will likely go with option 2.  I really don’t want to move.  My studio is kick-*ss.  My landlords are awesome.  (I will probably seek the help of a professional so I can talk through my unfounded fears and worries surrounding subletting.  In 10 weeks’ time, I have no doubt that I will be A-ok.)

Physical Prowess

This may sound weird, but being physically fit and ready for the trail is the least of my “concerns.”  If you know me, you know that I train every single day/week-after-week as though I’m prepping for 5 months of walking.  In fact, since the beginning of the year, I have been religious with my gym workouts, hikes, runs, Chiropractic care, bodywork sessions, etc.  Being a yoga teacher helps, too.  I am around wellness and self-care daily.

BUT, being aware does not make me immune from any potential setbacks.  I will be 39 y.o. once I get on the trail.  That’s not 25.  That’s not 30.  And, trust me, I have plenty of 39 y.o. problems. As a former collegiate student-athlete, marathon and half-marathon runner, powerlifter…. my body is beat up.  It takes work to keep it in optimal shape and pain-free.  Luckily for me, I am aware of what I need to do.  Tune back in for some of my go-to tips-n-tricks!

Janine on the PCT

PCT: SOBO – NOBO.

In the coming weeks, I would love to share more about the other ways in which I am prepping.  I am sure I will.  Ten weeks is still plenty of time to perfect my gear, tend to most injuries, and build up in ways needed.

If anyone has any information/experiences with anything/everything, please know that I am happy to hear!  Share away!

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Comments 3

  • JustBob : May 11th

    That is FANTASTIC that you have achieved financial responsibility and are debt free, especially being able to walk away free and clear (minded) for this trip !!! Congrats to you !!! (That’s my dad speech) !

    It also sounds like you are physically well prepared for the trip as well. Have you considered how you are going to handle the long solo stretches of time when you are walking alone? From experience, I found during these periods of time walking alone you find yourself thinking (a lot). I just thought I would mention this so you might contemplate an awareness, in advance of how to handle these long quiet stretches.

    Enjoy and keep us all posted on your progress!

    Reply
  • pearwood : May 11th

    When you start getting anxious about your advanced age, you can think of this old fart celebrating his seventy second birthday midway along the AT next year.
    Go for it!
    Blessings,
    Steve / pearwood
    https://thetrek.co/author/steven-tryon/

    Reply
  • JhonYermo : May 13th

    Mighty glad I subscribed. Thanks

    Reply

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