Carolyn’s post-trail reflections and what’s new

It has been nearly three months since we got off the Pacific Crest Trail. I can’t believe it was that long ago.  I can’t believe we spent five months in the woods.  I can’t believe I hiked 2,300 miles in one season.  I can’t believe what an amazing experience it was.  It was the most challenging thing I’ve ever done, physically, emotionally, and mentally.  I had a minor medical issue 2,000 miles in (we were in Bend, OR) and I got off the trail.  However, I was already contemplating leaving long before Bend, and my medical setback was the straw that broke the camel’s back.  I was completely exhausted and was not taking good care of my body.  Despite my complete discontent for the trail at that point, leaving was one of the hardest decisions I have ever made.  I flew to Michigan and stayed with my parents as I recuperated.  As soon as I began to integrate with “civilization” again, I knew I wanted to get back on the trail once my wounds were healed.  One week later, I hopped back on an airplane and met Domonick at the Washington border.  I remember that first day back on the trail, the leaves had begun to change colors, we heard them crunch below our shoes, and the crisp air enlivened our spirits.  We were immersed in the most beautiful wilderness during those 300 miles in Washington.  Tears come to my eyes when I picture the landscape in my mind.  The weather began to turn 190 miles from the PCT terminus (the Canadian border) and we got off the trail.  Domonick was 190 miles short of earning his Triple Crown (successfully thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, Continental Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail).  I had mixed feelings getting off the trail, as we were so close.  Domonick and I shared a beautiful moment where he reminded me, it’s not about the end point, it’s about the journey. What a lesson in humility.  The journey would be more enjoyable next summer when there was no freezing rain, so we ended our 2016 PCT attempt.  In August 2017, we will finish the 200 miles I missed in Oregon, and then the remaining 190 miles to the border.  I cannot wait to get back out there.  What did I learn during my sojourn in the wilderness?

-You need very few material goods to live comfortably and be happy.

-“Hiker funk” exists and it is a very distinct smell.

-The human body is capable of unbelievable things.

-The game, “attempt to keep everything as dry as possible during multiple days of rain” is not very fun.

-Condensation is a four letter word.

-The Earth is a massive, majestic, mysterious, and mystical place. I’m blessed and humbled to be a part of it.

-Keep your shoes on when fording all rivers!

-Experiencing innumerable conflicting, opposite emotions within the course of an hour is possible.

-I chose the right husband.

-The kindness of strangers still exists and good Samaritans are everywhere.

-The body has the power to heal itself.

-I really enjoy rootbeer floats.

-Marmots are one of the cutest animals ever.

-Do a cursory examination of a lake for leeches before deciding to take a dip.

-Misery is easily forgotten.

Before the PCT, I enjoyed hiking and being outside, but now I think I know why. I like immersing myself in something that is bigger than myself. Little worries and nagging thoughts are blown away by the whispering wind and a sense of peace settles in.  Anticipating or expecting what is to come next is futile, as the environment is constantly changing.  It makes me reflect on what really matters in life, and I am left in awe at how perfect and love-filled the world is.  I encourage everyone to get outside, not just for your personal benefit, but for everyone’s. We must overcome the separations we’ve made between us and nature.  We are not separate from nature. We are not separate from each other.

While I did not keep a formal yoga practice on the trail (the physical exhaustion and time restraints hampered my posture, breathing, and seated meditation practice), it helped me deepen my understanding of yoga philosophy and I have begun to understand what the world is all about. Since leaving the trail, I have delved back into my formal practice, going to studios, and I have found a consistent home practice.  I miss teaching and am excited for the day I find myself in that role again. I am also excited for this winter, as I will be doing a work-trade program at a yoga retreat center in Northern Michigan.  I am not sure if I will be teaching at all, but I am  excited to serve in any capacity to make sure retreats run smoothly and participants feel at home.  I will be there for at least two months, fully immersing myself in self-reflection and selfless service.  During this time, Domonick will bike tour the Southern Tier and Pacific Coast routes, continuing his tradition of traversing the United States!

At the end of March, I am meeting Domonick in South Korea for the next joint adventure. We are biking the Four Rivers Bike Path from Seoul to Busan.  Then we’ll take a ferry to Japan, at the peak of cherry blossom season!  Then back to California for Domonick’s sister’s wedding. Then to Spain to hike the Camino Norte pilgrimage route.  In late summer we’ll finish the PCT.  I am so excited to experience these new places with my soul mate and create these memories together.  I’m not sure how much I will be posting on the website, but please stay tuned as Domonick will certainly post periodically.

Love, laughs, and blessings,

Carolyn (aka Ladybug)