Julian, CA. Mile 77 / San Diego

Dream as if you'll live forever.

Live as if you'll die today.

-James Dean

The last stretch of 37 miles was characterized by amazing sunrises and sunsets. These are my favorite times of day, reminding me of why I hike. The glorious unadulterated beauty is awe inspiring.

Despite the nerves about long stretches without water, it turned out okay. Both water sources were man aided. One was a horse watering trough and the other a spring that came out of the mountain through a PVC pipe.

We did our first cowboy camping due to high winds that would not stop vigorously blowing the tent around. The moon is so bright at night it looks like a flashlight shinning down on you. Despite the aggressive night light, the sleep was the best this far.

A storm is predicted to hit the trail between Julian, CA and Warren Springs, CA. Snow/Ice/Rain. With much deliberation, Ragnar and I decided to take some days off, rest, and miss the bad weather. We hitched a ride to Julian, CA and hunkered down to wait out the storm

Thankfully we were saved by Sally, Nano, and their son Finn. They came up to Julian, CA and whisked us away to San Diego, CA for some sweet R and R in their sailboat house. It has been such a privilege and honor to be a part of their lives these past couple of days. The generosity and kindness is inspiring.

I am getting nervous about losing time and ground, but I remind myself that patience and listening to the rest our bodies need will help finish this race. I got a knee brace today and am hopeful that it will be the support needed to stop the pain. Rags hot spots are almost healed. I anticipate being back on the trail very soon.