It’s my Birthday, I’ll hike if I want to
Happy 38th birthday to me!
38. What?! Where has the time gone? It’s funny when you’re a kid and you can’t wait to be an adult and then boom, you’re an adult, and you’re thinking, shit, time flew by. I have so many responsibilities. So many things to attend to. I don’t want to redo childhood, but hoo boy, I don’t think I’m an “adult.” Life is too short for that; despite my streak of grey. 🫶
It’s a kitchen dance party to end the night. Today was good. Really, really good. I’m happy.
This week has been something. The emotions are all over. The physical issues are as well. I’m excited and almost ready to head out there! I’m getting ready to fly to San Diego this weekend and to start the PCT next week. It is happening.
Saturday morning I awoke with intense hip pain stemming from my SI joint on my right side. This has been a problem area, albeit under control with physio and effective training. I tried to push through it by going on a loaded pack walk with a 34lb pack weight. I’ve done 32lb without issue prior, so why not go ahead with training? I don’t think the weight in particular was the issue but rather a combination of being sick and working back up to my previous training intensity. Usually my hip calms down 20 minutes into a walk if it happens to be in a flare. It loves movement. Not this time. While I did finish the walk, I was in tears. My SI joint was spasming. I thought that was it. All the hard work. All the effort. For what? Man, the brain is an interesting part of the body. I get the flu, my brain tells me this is the end. My hip hurts, that’s the end. Really brain? Really?! Why can’t I see reason in the moment?! Forget the physical, it’s the mental aspect that takes the most effort to push past. Good thing I have some awesome people in my corner.
Saturday was a write off. Sunday was stiff and sore. Monday was stiff but movement was happening. Today I’m dancing. It’s all good. One day at a time.
I went to physio today and that helped tremendously. If you’re in Lower Mainland, BC, hit up Reenal at the new Pre Therapy clinic - you won’t regret it.
My fitness coach, Lee (Trailside Fitness - a true expert in thru-hiking fitness), explained that it’s actually quite common for hikers to “injure” themselves right before a big thru-hike. None of them let it impact their hiking outcomes. I won’t either. I’ve got this. 💪 Lots of stretching, walking and heat on my hip this week! And a little dancing… 💃
On another positive note, my first resupply box (supplied by Aaron at Backcountry Foodie - a thru-hiker dream come true) has shipped! My box will meet me at the southern terminus soon. Nourishment. Equipment. Excitement. That’s what is in that box. I don’t think I’ve ever been so excited for a package. Aaron shared in my joy and do I ever appreciate that. She gets it. 🙌
