Train, prepare, pack, weigh. Repeat. Getting ready for a six week journey on The John Muir Trail after a record snow year and treatment for breast cancer is not easy. So many extra weighted items to bring like crampons to walk on ice and snow, and sturdy, waterproof shoes for crossing raging, overflowing creeks and streams. 

 My biggest weight sacrifices I commit to heartedly: a travel size memory foam pillow covered beautifully by my auntie and my backpacker guitar. They will be worth their weight (I hope).

I am almost ready and set. My pack, food and gear will weigh about 35 lbs. This week I drive to Yosemite National Park-my starting point.  The hike begins Saturday with hubby and daughter both along. We will be exploring new territory on the Ted Solomon Trail. We start start at Glacier Point and hike to Mammoth early Saturday morning.  Lots to do and time is flying. Thankful I fought off sleepiness to hit the trail this morning. I do not feel ready physically and the only way to feel better and stronger is to hike.  I am so glad I did it!

The real icing on the cake today was accidently meeting up with a group of mothers and daughters resting in a shaded area. I stopped and chatted and blessed them all before moving on. My heart feels happy as I feel Lady Lauralyn, John Muir Trail Chaplain rising again! I feel spiritually and mentally ready! Everything is coming into place.