It Takes a Village

We’ve spent a bunch of time talking about everything we’re doing to prep for the PCT, but want to take a step back and recognize those that have helped make this hike possible. We’ve had a lot of very supportive friends, family, and co-workers that have helped and encouraged us along the way. I don’t think we’ve encountered a single person that hasn’t been supportive.

Jayne and Isaac Barnes and the Honeyrun Farm staff are shipping the first several sets of resupply boxes, and Matt and Jessi Mottern are sending the next several sets. Matt and Jessi also helped us with a final gear shakedown to squeeze a couple more pounds out of our packs. Their son Logan 3D printed a super lightweight chess and checkers board which will provide hours of entertainment for all of us on trail. Their daughter Madison gave our kids audio book recommendations to help keep them entertained on trail.

We’re also lucky to have a lot of support with things we can’t manage from trail. Matt and Jessi aren’t only shipping boxes, but are also watching our dog, Kaia, our van, and every other non-trail related item we drove across the country. Aaron Gastrich and Manuel Acosta are checking in on our house regularly to make sure all is well. Our neighbors Debbie and Justo are also keeping an eye on our house and are coordinating lawn mowing. Angela’s mom has the exciting job of reading all of our mail.

Going back to the early planning and prep stages I have to thank my managers at work for letting me take leave and all of my coworkers for being supportive. Aaron and Jody Gastrich joined in for many of our training hikes and backpacking trips. There are also countless other friends and family members that have provided support ranging from encouragement to hiking partners to asking questions about details we may have missed.

Thanks again everyone for everything you’ve done for us! We appreciate it more than we could ever express.