One of the many reasons I love the outdoor world is the people you meet throughout your adventures. Most of the people I have met previously or have helped me out in my planning have been some of the most helpful, kind hearted people I've ever met. Their help has been incredibly invaluable to me and their experiences have eased my nervousness. A few people I want to mention specifically:
My very good friend Trevor, who hiked the PCT a few years ago, has not only helped me with gear decisions, random tidbits of information and sat down with me for hours talking trail; He is also making my maps for the entire trip while planning his own through hike on the Continental Divide Trail this year. I appreciate everything you have done so much!
Another person who has been an absolute world of help is my friend Sterling. When he first learned of my interest in the PCT, he brought me a sticker for my water bottle so I would be reminded that I want to through hike the PCT someday. He may not know it, but in the next few months it made me believe that this was a realistic thing I could accomplish. Sterling has also spent hours messaging back and forth with me answering every question I can think of, and then some. I would be completely lost without his priceless information.
And last but definitely not least, my parents. Though they may be completely terrified that i'm embarking on this journey, they have been nothing but supportive. Letting me take over the game room with all my gear and half the kitchen with all my dehydrated food (In advance, mom and dad, it will only get worse from here!). When your daughter tells you she wants to backpack by herself for 5 months, most parents would have an adverse reaction than the ones I received from my parents. They have always believed that I can do it and will be supporting me the entire way. But Mom, you cannot come visit me once a week!
I can say over and over, and I probably will, but thank you, thank you, thank you!
