On the trail!

May 2 - Day 1
12:00 - I started today with high spirits. All of the stress and anxiety from preparation were gone almost the moment I hit the trail. As I left the start, 3 more hikers arrived, but I started alone. I have already seen 3 additional hikers, so despite my late start it appears I will have company on the trail. The first few miles were pretty easy. Everything is greener than I anticipated. The yucca are blooming and there are lots of flowering grasses.

Luckily today is not as hot as it could be, but the sun is still much more intense than I am used to. My poor city boy skin is taking a beating from the sun (even with the sun screen). Although I am starting to tire, I only have 5 more miles to Lake Morena, which is my first planned stop.

4:30 - it got hot... and for some foolish reason i continued hiking at the hottest point of the day. I'm beat but I made it. I just feel bad for those who had to do this section on a hotter day. The campsite at the lake is pretty nice. We have an oak tree that 3 of us are sprawled out under.

May 1 - Day 0
Today was my last day in civilization. I flew down to California a couple of days ago, and have been visiting family before my departure. With all of the visits finished, my dad and I drove out to the Jacumba hot springs to ensure that I am fully relaxed to start my trek. One thing that is clear upon loading my pack tonight is that I have too much stuff! It is not that it is to heavy, more that it is taking up too much space... I suppose it is a good thing I have nearly 5 months to get it straightened out.

Don't Panic