Physically Impacting Fiscally

Happy Belated Birthday, Murica.

Over the past 45 days, Caleb and I have dealt with a variety of issues directly related with the tendons in my right foot, which were a direct result of my introduction to serious hiking. While that was our main concentration, about a week ago we made a terrible mistake and looked at our respective bank accounts. The physical toll has significantly impacted the fiscal toll of what our trail budget. Fortunately, for Caleb, while he has spent more than he should have, he still has a budget to finish the trip. At this point, for me, I have the choice of either running out of funds in early August, or taking off the month of July to work (for $$) and finish the trip with Caleb, rejoining him near Redding, CA or the Oregon border.

It's not an easy decision, but as we discussed, we want to cross the border, and a month to fiscally recover equals two months of hiking.

I'll be added to the list of folks who worry about Caleb during the month of July. This should not be mistaken that I don't think he is capable, in fact, he is more than capable. Keep in mind, it is I who has been learning the most on this trip.

Caleb and I had always planned to meet back up with our two British pals, Chris and Nick. Caleb has assured me that is still his plan. In the meantime, he will be meeting up with two other hikers we spent our last week or so hanging out with on the trail. He has their contact information. There was many hikers coming through the area where Caleb is currently at. We had moved from the back of the pack to the very front, and so while waiting there is a steady stream of hikers that should be joining him.

His itinerary is as follows:

• Hike from Tuolumne Meadows to Sonora Pass (75 miles)

• Resupply in Bridgeport, CA

• Hike from Sonora Pass to Echo Lakes

• Arrive in Echo Lakes for Resupply on July 14th.
  (Note: Any packages sent to Echo Lakes should be mailed by July 10th)

Send to:
HOLD PCT THRU HIKER JAMES CHURCH
General Delivery
Echo Lakes, CA 95721

I've also enticed him to write more blog posts in exchange for the standings in the NL east via text message. I will be sure and keep folks up to speed on his whereabouts and plans. The good news is that he is familiar with the area he is hiking through over the next few weeks. The bad news is that he is aware there will be lots of snow melt, soggy trails, and wet shoes. If you know Caleb, you know that he hates when his feet are wet. At least Julia brought him his boots.

-Brandon