Day 184: mile 1035.4-1055.1
The wind was gusting around me like crazy all night. It woke me a few times, but luckily I was surrounded by trees so it only rattled my tent when it was really wild. I love the feeling I get when I hear a windstorm surrounding me and I’m safely tucked away from it. I find it really calming and peaceful, natures sound machine.
It was a chilly morning, so I stayed pretty bundled as I left camp. I took a look around since I’d gotten here in the dark, nice spot. There was water nearby, but I passed since it was surrounded by cow patties. Clearly grazing land.
This was confirmed as I crossed the creek and was greeted by an adorable and very friendly dog! …oh and his owner on horseback asking if I’d seen a couple of cows. I had not.
Out in the sunshine I began to warm up, but the constant wind was still keeping me pretty cool. I noticed the sky looking a bit foggy in the distance and I was concerned there might be a fire. Fingers crossed there’s not, I’ve made it this far! …and obviously that would be terrible in general!
The trail hugged the side of the mountain and the views were spectacular. The trees were too. Not only were my favorites (junipers) everywhere, but the way all the different types of trees were growing between the rocks was as if they were purposefully planted just so.
I began to think about how I had about a week left on trail and how I needed to soak in every minute. I’ve been thinking about the end of the trail since Washington, so at this point it’s really hitting me hard. I’m not ready. For now I will try to push away the sadness and focus on the pure joy my surroundings bring me everyday.
Around 5 pm I finally saw the first people I’d seen in two days. I expect the rest of the trail to be this way. All of the SOBOs should be past me and I’m just about the only NOBO out here. Which is fine by me, I don’t mind the solitude one bit.
The night got very cold as the sun dipped below the mountain. The weather said 9 degrees for a nearby town, and that was 3,000 feet lower than me. It’s going to be another chilly one.
Goodnight!
XOXO Green Light