lighten up

Lighten Up!

begun March 2017

As I approach the last few weeks of planning for my hike, I have become obsessed with lightening the weight I will carry. I am constantly thinking of ways to get my backpack weight below 30 pounds including my food and water. It consumes every free minute I have. I pack and unpack, trying to find ways to shed a few ounces. Maybe I can do without a spare shirt. Do I really need camp shoes? The list is endless. As I go through this process, it has become clear to me what is driving me to take on this endeavor. Simply put, it is to “lighten up”. To clear my mind. To recognize the difference between wants and needs. To become more aware of what truly important .

Let's fast forward to today June 12, sixty two days and 762 miles into my hike. I have lightened up my gear by about 7 lbs, added a pair of camp shoes, new 40 degree sleeping quilt, new backpack, new single person tent,  and got rid of my winter clothes. I am still working on recognizing the difference between needs and wants. This is especially true when I resupply. The goal of resupplying is to get what you need, not necessarily what you want, or your pack weighs too much. I want to be able to walk up hill quickly. The reality is I can't. So you adjust your pace and do your best. As Ragnar keeps on saying, "it's not about the miles; it's about the smiles. So lighten up and enjoy the smiles and not the miles."