Stopping, for now....

Life is sure full of twists and turns...and for me it was the hard decision to end my walk early.   Try as I might, I couldn't ignore my injured foot and think that given a few days it would be okay.  Especially with carrying a pack of 35 pounds, and that was after I off-loaded 10 pounds!  The constant daily pounding of that weight for 7+ hours a day took it's toll.   While I am disappointed that I did not complete my trek, I am able to look back with awe at what I did see and more importantly the amazing new friends I made along the way!   Diane in Crescent City, who offered maps, advice and walked with me in my first days.  The crew at Kamp Klamath (a great place for camping, salmon fishing and hiking) each one offering support and words of encouragement.  The Geezers in Eureka/Arcata for responding to my calls, helping me find a motel to dry out, inviting me on one of their group hikes and even taking me in to rest my foot a few days.  And all the others that briefly crossed my path. And, of course, none of this would have happened without the support of my family and friends who sent messages and called to check-in making sure I was holding up. Lastly, I owe a HUGE thank you to Jessiqa, for her diligent work on keeping the blog current with photos and stories as well as her own extensive documentation.  You're the best.... So while I rest my foot and move through my emotions, I am also counting my blessings...of which there are many.  Who knows, I may just pick up where I started, or do parts of the trail, or see what else presents itself.  There's always something.  ( :