Air travel always sets me a little on edge. I have not done a whole lot of it for 2 reasons. The first: the first time I flew, I was in the 5th grade. My eardrums created so much pain and pressure that they burst after reaching our destination (Disneyland)… my poor parents. The second: it has always seemed like a prohibitive luxury. Something that other people seemed to be able to afford with such ease, when I checked flights it always seemed like a small fortune to fly with 2 adults and 2 children.
I think this might actually be a facilitator in my love of hiking. Without the, seemingly mundane, luxury of flights, hotels and dining out, we did road trips, camp outs and backpacking trips. We did what we could to make some memories of outings and togetherness a thing without being prohibitive. I always feel a little guilty when I fly, like I’m cheating by not driving. By not saving a buck. With air travel there is always an uneasy feeling. And it’s a little more than motion sickness.
And now I find myself in San Diego. I am waiting for a ride from a Trail Angel named Bo to take me to Frodo and Scout’s place where I am fortunate enough to stay.
Frodo and Scout are Trail Angels that have been hosting PCT thru hikers for YEARS! They have a dialed in system that includes an assortment for volunteers, “reservations”, rides from the airport etc, meals (dinner & breakfast) 1 day stay for US based hikers (2 day for internationals), transport to the Southern Terminus in Campo, CA… all free of charge and they will not take your money. They have made the difficult decision that next year (2020) will be their last year hosting so that they can retire and spend time with the grandkid(s).
I must now go experience this amazing thing and I will report back to you at my next opportunity!
And you’re off! <3 <3 <3