Pictures Worth 2,315 miles...

Thank you TOMMY for the great haircut

Today, November 15th, was the original day we were supposed to be picking Teddy up from the airport.  Due to the hazardous weather and subzero temperatures, his journey was cut short, and we were reunited with him 12 days earlier than anticipated.  Just over a week has passed.  It has been a busy week.  A week of joy.  A week of chaos.  A week filled with football games, show and tell, family dinners, unpacking, bike riding, quiet time, story time, lots of eating, and reconnecting with family and friends.  And a trip to the barber.  Yes.  Probably the most necessary event over the last week. First the beard came off, and then all that hair.  All of that hair that protected Scarecrow from the elements along the PCT.  Glad  you are back, Teddy.

We have been so happy to hear about all the stories and adventures that Teddy has gone through, as well as look at the amazing photographs he took while on the trail.  So many pictures that capture the beautiful, breathtaking landscapes that Teddy hiked through... desert, snow covered mountains, and almost everything in between.  We have put together a video - a pictorial journal of some of the most beautiful, memorable moments and places that Teddy has seen while away on his trip.  A way to see what Teddy experienced, though his eyes, his camera, his love of hiking.  You will get to see some of his highest moments - and some of his lowest.

Unfortunately, I am not too tech savvy to work around rules and restrictions and the blog video was blurry when viewed on a large screen .  I have tried to correct it as much as I can, and have included a link for youtube.  This link will have a clearer video with no music (as per youtube and their copyright regs)  SORRY FOR THE CONFUSION :)

Video Journal of Scarecrow's Journey

My family was blessed in so many ways by this whole experience.  Most importantly, we got to feel all of the love and support surrounding us as we all watched Teddy's journey unfold.  We are truly grateful for each and every one of OUR trail angels that provided us with trail magic along the way - this wouldn't have been such a wonderful experience without each and every one of you.  Thanks for coming along for the hike.  May all of you trails be happy ones...

Until next time,
~ The Thruhiker's Wife ~

Music in the video by the following:
"The Story" by Brandi Carlile
"America" by Simon and Garfunkel
"You've Got a Friend In Me" by Randy Newman
"My Wish" by Rascal Flatts
Video Journal of Scarecrow's Trip

♪ Signs, Signs, Everywhere A Sign ♪

created by Angela Kropp

Our day had arrived.  With very little sleep or calmness since the news of Teddy's arrival home set in, we began our day yesterday with much excitement and anticipation of the hours yet to come.  The moments we had only imagined for the past 5 months.  They were going to happen now.  Today.  The kids went off to school, and I made my best efforts to gather myself, our house, and our life over the past months - I did not know where to begin.  Laundry still needed to be done.  The house still needed to be straightened.  Welcome home signs still needed to be created.  The lawn still needed to be cut.  I never made my haircut appointment.  The jeeps needed to be cleaned out.  For a short while, I started to panic and stress that everything would not be just right for Teddy's arrival home.  The phone rang - it was 8:00 am, and I had already begun my panic several hours earlier.  Teddy was calling - just hearing his voice, and the excitement of him telling me, "I will see you later today", immediately put things into perspective.  I was going to see my husband TODAY.  I formulated a plan as we were speaking.  It was almost as if his energy was traveling through the phone and fueling the pen as it wrote down my list - my plan of attack.  I hung up feeling focused, driven and filled with strength to implement my plan.  My plan was simple.  Be ready to welcome home my husband.  Be ready to receive a man who has been away from his wife, two children, family, friends, and regular life for five months.  All of a sudden, some of the things I was stressing over became insignificant.  My whole day's atmosphere changed from stress and lack of time to a wonderful, excitement filled day of preparation and anticipation of Teddy's arrival.  I immediately began tracking his flight, which allowed me to be informed of exactly where he was and exactly how much time I had left to complete the "stuff" that needed to get done.  The laundry got done, as did the straightening of the house.  More trail angels enter the picture as my mom came by to help straighten up and share her artistic ability, and my dear, supportive friend, Angela Kropp, the creator of Teddy's amazing PCT hiker tee shirt came over with a nice lunch and created beautiful welcome signs for us to hold at the airport.

Angela, my mom and I painted this sign

Things all came together for me, with outcomes exceeding me expectations.  The only thing that mattered now, is that I was ready to welcome my husband home.  Finally.  I left at 1:45 pm, collected the kids and set off for the airport.  Yes, I got there WAY EARLY... an hour and a half earlier than his estimated landing time.  It's ok - I had plenty of time to hyperventilate over the thoughts of finally seeing Teddy after all this time.  Plenty of time to imagine our reunion.  Plenty of time to have my heart race at the thought of hugging him.  Plenty of time to have tears of joy falling at the thought of him reuniting with his strong, patient children.  It was an emotional hour and a half - one where I could not get a full breathe in at all.

created by Ken Beck

Many of our friends and family gathered at the airport to show their support for Ted's arrival.  Some of my strongest support over the past few months came from the family and friends standing beside me at the airport.  My brother Kenn created the sign at right, originally to hang off the overpass of the Sunrise Hwy, but the wind decided otherwise, so he brought it to the airport for Teddy to enjoy.  Jagger, Dakota, her boyfriend David, our cousin Cathy, my brothers Thomas and Kenn, my mom Ruth, Pattie and Derrick Grieco, Valerie and Christi Raia, Mike and Angela Arasa, Colleen and Mr. Conn, and Darien Maginn, our wonderful photographer all gathered, waiting anxiously, as we heard the announcement of Ted's plane landing.
  

created by Angela Kropp

Each minute that passed on the arrival board felt like an hour, but as people walked down out of the gate, I approached an older man, and asked pretty abruptly, "Were you on the flight from Chicago?" After answering "Yes", and giving me a strange look, my heart began to beat right out of my chest, knowing that any second my husband, my hero, would be walking out of the arrival gate.  And there he was.  Scruffy, thin, hungry, but happy, proud, and loved.  The photographs that Darien took captured those precious moments for me, and I will share as soon as she passes them on to me.
Until then, I want everyone to know that the amount of happiness, relief, pride, courage, support and love that surrounded us all was like nothing I have ever felt in my whole entire life.

created by Ruth Beck

We have Teddy back home.  You have your son, uncle, nephew, friend.  My children have their dad.  I have my husband.  We have Scarecrow back home, safe, healthy and happy.  The upcoming entry of our blog will give you a view into what Teddy has endured through the past 5 months.  A pictorial journal of the struggles he endured, the triumphs he achieved, and the life he has lived away from all he knows.  A beautiful ending to this chapter of a wonderful story that I was honored to tell.


~ The Thruhiker's Wife ~

~ FLIGHT INFORMATION ~

After 155 days, the day has come... 2 weeks earlier than we thought... Many of you asked about his arrival home, so here is his flight information.

via google clipart

Teddy is flying home tomorrow afternoon, November 3.  He will land at MacArthur at 4:15 pm.  Any and all are welcomed - he will appreciate everyone's love and support as he accepts the bittersweet ending of this journey.

~ The Thruhiker's Wife ~

via google clipart

It's Time to Come Home.

An expected call from Teddy this afternoon brought some unexpected news.  After hours of deliberating with himself, Teddy has decided to step off the Pacific Crest Trail and come home.  The decision he has made was a difficult one, but a necessary one.  Upon leaving Snoqualmie Pass, Teddy encountered nothing less than 12+ inches of snow, 20 degree weather, and fewer and fewer opportunities to thaw out before continuing his next day's mileage.  This hiking trip transformed from completing a thruhike to surviving the elements, which are getting progressively more dangerous with each passing hour.  In speaking with my family in Washington, they reported a severe winter storm heading into the Northern Cascades over the next 10 days, which is right where Teddy was headed.  So, in our emotional conversation, Teddy asked for my support in his decision to step off the trail and of course, he has it. He always had it.  After 2,476 miles hiked and 155 days away from his family and friends, Scarecrow is heading home.

Teddy was picked up at the Skykomish Post Office by Jerry and Andrea Dinsmore - Trail Angels on the PCT that are well-known in the hiker community.  Their website http://www.dinsmoreshikerhaven.com/ was sent by another trail angel named Alan Artman, a.k.a. Patchwork who has been in touch with me about assisting Scarecrow in any way he can, after meeting with him earlier in the trail.

I am currently awaiting a call back from Teddy on his next move - he will make his way back to my family in Washington and then fly home in the next day or two.  I want to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation to every single person that has been involved in this journey - I know and appreciate that Teddy (and I) will have your continued support through the next part of this bitter sweet journey.  We will keep you posted as things unfold - I know and love how much everyone is dedicated to and supporting Teddy's dream through reading this blog.

♪ We Are Family ♪

After finishing my entry on patience and waiting, I was pleasantly surprised with some updated photos from my trail angel families in Washington.  These are wonderful moments that I am sure Teddy will cherish forever, so THANK YOU!!

Beth Jump, her dad, and Scarecrow... this wonderful union of family would not have been possible Beth, without your love and support ~ thank you. xoxo

my Aunt Mary Rutkowski, my father's sister, my husband's trail angel... we love you and are so grateful for all that you are and all that you have done for us. xoxo

My Uncle Willie, (Mary's husband) and their son-law Dan Jump... thank you for hosting and transporting... this would not have happened without the love, generosity and kindness from you guys. xoxo

After driving the 40 miles back to the trailhead at Snoqualmie Pass, Teddy puts his 40+ pound pack on and gets ready to go...

Uncle Willie, and his granddaughter Melanie Jump say their last goodbyes to Scarecrow after a few days of much needed family time.  Thank you for all of the fun, love, and support you gave to my husband. xoxo

Aunt Mary, Melanie and Scarecrow... I am sure this was a difficult goodbye for Teddy - he was so touched by spending time with such wonderful family members who just met him, yet loved him like they knew each other forever...  xoxo

Along with his hiking stick and backpack, Teddy is carrying away with him wonderful moments and memories made with family that will carry him through the rest of his journey to the end of the Pacific Crest Trail.  

xoxo

Teddy ~ Everyone's prayers are for you to have a safe, happy, healthy journey to the end of the Pacific Crest Trail... enjoy the rest of this adventure... we cannot wait to hear all about it.  Happy Trails, my love... XOXO

~ The Thruhiker's Wife ~

Waiting...

All things come to him who waits - provided he knows what he is waiting for. - Woodrow T. Wilson

Among the things that were rejuvenated while staying with family, was Teddy's cell phone strength.  He decided to go through the miscellaneous pictures that he never sent to me while out in the woods.  He came across the one below of him sporting a red bandanna.

head gear worn to deter hunters from shooting

It is worth mentioning, because three female cyclists approached Scarecrow with this bandanna while in the woods back on October 1.  They seemed concerned that he would be hiking in the woods with no colorful alert to others on the FIRST DAY OF HUNTING SEASON.  He accepted their gift, and wore it - thank you, cyclist trail angels, as it kept him safe from humans thinking he was a bear wandering through the trail.
So, we wait anxiously for Teddy's next update... I have our collection of stickers waiting to mark his location on the map, the computer is waiting to accept the next entry of the story, the kids are waiting to share their latest endeavors, my phone is waiting for the next pictures he will send, our friends and family are waiting to see Teddy and hear all about his journey, and I am waiting... Yes, I know exactly what I am waiting for... I am waiting to have my husband home again, safely, to love, enjoy, and live our life... it's been a long five months of waiting... but according to the English proverb... good things come to those who wait.

"Waiting" by Green Day

~ The Thruhiker's Wife ~

Best Stop Yet on the Pacific Crest Trail

A HUGE THANK YOU  goes out to the Jump and Rutkowski families for hosting Teddy for a few days while he rests, refuels, and gears up for the last part of the trail.  Teddy arrived Wednesday evening after being picked up by my Aunt Mary and Uncle Willie Rutkowski, who drove from Post Falls, Idaho (about 209 miles) to get him.

They greeted him at a pancake place right by the trail, where he had arrived just a bit earlier and ate a great meal while he waited.  He said he also went to the local gas station and bought them a car air freshener, in case the "hiker funk" was too much for them to bear.  They were so gracious - they did not open the air freshener.










The car ride to Redmond took about an hour I believe - it is 39 miles from the trail.  It probably felt so good to just be able to sit and have conversation with people at this point, let alone wonderful, loving family who were excited about his arrival.  As you all have heard, he made it safely and had a wonderful visit.  They feasted on homemade lasagna, salad, garlic bread, and lots of great conversation.  Teddy said he felt at home the second he walked in the door.  He continually said, "this is such a great family. They are good people."  Did he have any doubts?? I mean, come on... it's AUNT MARY and her family.  I just knew it would be exactly what he needed at this point in the journey. So, let me introduce these good people to you.

the Jump Trail Angels

Pictured at the right, is the Jump family.  From left to right, son Tyler, mom Beth, daughter Melanie, son James, and dad Dan.

Teddy had such a good time, bonding with family, and truly interacting with people for the first time in 5 months... He said even the idea of waking up in the morning and being able to say "good morning" to someone was a huge deal - he has been on his own, with the exception of a few weeks with Not Ryan, Tog, and Evil Goat earlier in the trail... this family time was by far, his favorite time on the trail.

the Rutkowski Trail Angels

Pictured left, are my Aunt Mary and Uncle Willie Rutkowski.  Beth's parents.  They have spent the last few days giving Teddy love, encouragement and support for his last 15 days out on the trail.  


While visiting, Teddy got to enjoy some kid time as well.  This is right up Teddy's alley - he is one big kid himself... He got to share some of his Snickers and Reese's while packing up his supply boxes.  I wonder what the kids thought about this hiker guy's eating habits - all they saw were piles of candy bars and trail mix piled up, separated into different days of food that he would mail up the trail - I imagine it would be any kid's dream...

And this little cutie, James, spent alot of time with Teddy.  He sat with him on his lap while we skyped, and Teddy said he would follow him around while Teddy was packing up, and say "can I help?" they even caught some reading time together, sitting by the fire place... thank you to the Jump children, for giving this daddy who misses his kids more than anything, some fun, loving kid time.  He loves you guys. <3

So, after several days of being pampered, warm, dry, and rested... Teddy is heading back out onto the Pacific Crest Trail.  My Uncle Willie is driving him back over to Snoqualmie Pass this morning, and he will hike on to the last part of this long journey.  I got to talk to Teddy this morning, and he said it is POURING.

But he is in high spirits - he said, "this is typical weather for here, and I am ready to go on."  He has his new rain jacket, and 15+ sleeping bag from REI to look forward to, both providing the best protection for him as he travels through the Northern Cascade Mountains, and into Canada.


I am sure this is bitter sweet for Teddy - he is

clipart via google images

sad to depart from this wonderful, loving family - but he is now headed to the end of the trail, and onward to HOME.  The kids and I have maintained a countdown from the day he left - there are only 17 days left until Teddy will get on a plane leaving from Portland, Oregon and fly home to us.  For all of you who have asked, his flight lands in MacArthur Airport in Islip, at 5:20 pm on the 15th of November.
Until Next Time,
~ The Thruhiker's Wife ~

Skyping with Scarecow

The day finally arrived... NO, not Teddy coming home, but the next best thing.  He arrived at Snoqualmie Pass, mile 2,402 on the PCT map.  He was greeted by my dear Aunt Mary and Uncle Willie, who traveled all the way from Post Falls, Idaho to collect him and bring him to their daughter Beth's house in Redmond, Washington.  They all arrived safely, in the late afternoon, to a home filled with family waiting to welcome Teddy.  Beth, her husband Dan and children Tyler, Melanie and James welcomed him, he enjoyed a delicious, home cooked meal and a comfy bed, in a room filled with cards, letters and gifts from followers.

Teddy was so touched and extremely grateful for all of the gifts and well wishes... Derrick and Pattie - he said the beer went down soooo smoothly.  Dawn, he loved the scrolls, and is saving them to open one at a time over the course of the next few weeks.  Brenna, Alicia, and Lexi - the cards were beautiful - Lexi, yours brought a tear to Uncle Teddy's eye <3.  Terri, your kind words and praise of family was so beautifully written - it truly touched us both.  And Kendra, he was so moved by your continued support and following the blog, with never even meeting him.  Angela - he loved the shirt - we actually got to see him open that one!!  He was excited to say he will wear that on the journey home - yay - a clean shirt.  Every single one of you who sent letters, cards, gifts - you are the latest of Teddy's trail angels, and we are so appreciative.  This positive support and love you sent will give him the push he needs to finish up over the past 17 days... I tried to wait for Teddy to send me pictures of his evening with the family, but they never got to it.  We did get to skype last night and this evening, sharing the latest news, loving wishes, and sad goodbyes.  To hear his voice and interact with him via computer was truly amazing, thanks to MY trail angel, Kenn Beck.  It was really difficult pressing the "hang up" button - this was the first and last time we would skype with Teddy through this whole trip.  But he will be home in 19 days...  he looked pretty creepy, but sounded so great - happy, grateful, strong... once again gearing up for the cold, wintry days and nights ahead of him.

we got to skype with Scarecrow

Next stop?  Stevens Pass, mile 2,476.6 on the PCT map.  Teddy is on schedule to finish the PCT completely by November 13th and scheduled to fly home on the 15th.  Of course, as always, we will keep you posted.

~ The Thruhiker's Wife ~

The Wonderful Couple from Blanton's..

In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.  ~John Muir


In my last entry, I was happy to share a story about a wonderful couple who met Teddy in the market while he was wheeling around his backpack, shopping for supplies. Well, I received this amazing email from them this evening, along with some pictures they took of Teddy while together.

Hello there,
We met your wonderful husband at Blanton's supermarket in Packwood, WA over the weekend.  Being fellow hikers, we were very excited to hear he had made it this far on the PCT.  He seemed in high spirits and appeared healthy, happy, well rested and exceptionally clean (he said he had just done laundry - a luxury to any through hiker).  We chatted him up for quite awhile and were happy to hear we could help him back to the trail.

We've attached a few pictures for you.  Sorry about the quality. They were taken on a camera phone.  The first two are of him in the store and there's one of him rounding the bend back onto the PCT.  We've also included a picture of us (shortly after dropping him off at the trail) so you can see some of the faces he encounters on his way.
Please wish him our best!
Matt & Kim


I have to laugh - here they are apologizing for the quality of these amazing pictures.. they won't realize until they read this blog entry just how grateful and appreciative I am for these pictures, their message and the update on Teddy... they gave me a huge gift - to actually hear from people who spent time with my husband, letting me know about how he looks, feels, and sounds... two extraordinary trail angels who went out of their way, fueled by the kind and generous spirit within them, to reach out and provide care, support, conversation, transportation, nourishment and friendship to a fellow hiker.  Thank you doesn't quite encompass the appreciativeness and gratitude that is pouring out of me right now towards both of you.  Teddy (Scarecrow) has been away from his wife, children, family and friends for 147 days - so when trail angels like yourselves come into his path, it is a remarkable reminder of just how truly blessed we are.

And just by looking at Teddy in these photos, it brings such joy and love to my heart to see him looking so happy.  He is truly fulfilling a dream, traveling on this amazing journey that has allowed him to stretch the boundaries, experience what he loves, and absorb all that is good in this world...

 I have to say, the last time we saw Teddy, he was walking away from us, with his pack on, excited to begin this journey.  This picture reminds me of that departure day.  He was filled with excitement, and uncertainty of the long trail that lies ahead of him...  now as we see him as he walks away, I know he is filled with a different kind of excitement, and a strong certainty that this journey is almost complete and his family and friends are waiting to welcome him home...
To Matt and Kim, the most recent in a long list of trail angels that have touched our lives... my wishes and prayers are for you to have as much love, support and success in your lives as we do in ours... 

THANK YOU Matt & Kim

Happy Trails to you both and God Bless.
~The Thruhiker's Wife~

♪ Slip Sliding Away ♪

clipart via google images

Scarecrow's spirits were up leaving Cascade Locks, as he is now in Washington state, in the homestretch.  We left it as he would call on Friday after hiking another 150 miles.  He did exactly that - he called from White Pass, listed as 2,304 miles on the PCT map.  Into his second day of walking, Teddy decided to hike .2 miles off the trail to a place called Panther Creek Campground, for the privilege of using the privy.  He came across a guy in a bright orange vest, exiting the woods from a day of hunting.  He directed Teddy to the campground, where he actually had his pop-up camper parked.  Teddy received an invitation to join him and his girlfriend for a meal of hot dogs and beer - he happily accepted.  The hunter guy, named Don, played his guitar and hung out, sharing their meal and talking with Teddy about his adventures... yes, another trail angel...

photo owned by jaythom256

I located the above picture through Google images - this is the stretch of trail where Teddy had a rough time.  This photo is owned by http://www.flickr.com/photos/taggman/with/3836127860/ and I am so thankful to have seen this photo.  It has truly put into clear perspective on just how dangerous the conditions are for Scarecrow.  And in case you are wondering, YES, I would have wanted to see this.

Morning eventually came, as it always does, and Teddy was relieved to be moving on.  Little did he know that his most hazardous moments were yet to arrive.  The wind was blowing hard from the West, which Teddy explained, created a drift.  This wedge filled in the trail making it barely visible and unable to follow.  He was walking a fine line between the trail and the edge of this ridge, in this drift.  At some point, Teddy lost his footing and fell onto his belly and went sliding down the side of the ridge.  I guess, in these situations, you are supposed to be thinking clearly and just whip out some tool and self-arrest.  Teddy did not have his ice axe, or any other instrument in which to self-arrest... I am not sure if he was just in a state of panic, or just couldn't reach for anything, but he slid about 20 feet down this ridge.  Good thing he said his prayers the night before - he caught a glimpse of a piece of lava rock sticking out of the side of the mountain and grabbed onto it to stop himself.  He laid there for several moments, just trying to process what just happened.  I am sure he said a few more prayers, and then begun to see other rock formations jutting out that he was able to grab onto VERY SLOWLY, and pulled his way back up the side of the ridge.
After what I am sure felt like a heart attack, Teddy got himself back together and continued on.  His immediate destination was the Cracker Barrel in Naches, WA to pick up his packages and I am sure, grab a yummy meal.  When he arrived, a woman named Dolores gave him a huge bowl of soup and a delectable sandwich, both which Teddy enjoyed and was extremely grateful for after what he had just endured.  Not only did Dolores offer this amazing meal, it was followed by a 20 mile ride into Packwood to the Cowlitz River Lodge where he was going to stay for the night.  Yes, another trail angel...

photo via google images

A good night's sleep and a continental breakfast under his belt, Teddy was ready to resupply and get back to the trail.  He stopped in Blanton's Market in Packwood to purchase his next week's worth of food.  After throwing his backpack into the shopping cart, and beginning his hunt for his supplies, a couple approached him and asked if he had just gotten off the trail.  Teddy explained that he was actually heading back to the trail and onward to Canada.  The couple were in amazement of his story.  The woman mentioned that she was actually involved in the construction of the wall near the Mexico border where Teddy began his journey.  It was part of her duties while serving in the Army.  So after sharing some stories, Teddy wandered on his way through Blanton's gathering his meals and supplies.  The couple met up with him again in the breakfast aisle, and asked if he needed a ride back 20 miles to the trail where he stepped off.  WOW.  He immediately accepted the offer, as the wonderful woman Dolores had offered to take him back, but it would have had to have been at 6:30 am, as she was due back to work at the Cracker Barrel.  Teddy declined her, as he wanted to sleep in and catch up on much needed rest.  So as he piled into the couple's pick up truck, they presented him with a goody bag that included a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, 4 pretzel sticks and some Hershey chocolates. Unfortunately, when they introduced themselves, Teddy didn't quite catch their names.  So, to the wonderfully amazing, generous couple who helped my husband - THANK YOU for your kind, generous spirit, for contributing to the positive experience my husband is living, and most importantly, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY.  Yes, more trail angels.
Teddy is well on his way to Snoqualmie Pass, mile 2,402 on the PCT map, where my wonderful cousin Beth Jump will be picking him up for a few days filled with family, food, and frosty cold beer.  From what I understand, we will have a chance to skype with Scarecrow - we cannot wait.
GOD BLESS all of the trail angels, and GOD BLESS Scarecrow.

Until next time,
~The Thruhiker's Wife~

The Guy We Call Scarecrow

There is a mood, a feeling, an atmosphere around the Warren home these days.  I have been racking my brain to come up with a single word that could describe it accurately.  A word that could encompass all that the kids and I are feeling as we await the remaining 26 days until our hero comes home.  It has been 142 days since we have seen the guy we call husband, dad, brother, son, uncle, nephew, friend...

photo taken by NOT RYAN

In those 142 days, we have gone through the end of spring, the whole summer, and most of the fall season thinking about, talking to, dreaming of, praying for and missing our guy.  On one hand, I am thankful for all that we have going on right now to occupy our time - school, work, soccer, football, scouts, and every day life -  as it has kept us extremely busy, allowing the weeks to rapidly fly by.  On the other hand, the schedule we are keeping is quite chaotic and somewhat overwhelming.  So, all of this, jumbled together, is generating a semblance of eagerness and anticipation for us to sort through as we count down the days.  Each time we talk to Teddy, he gives us his new location - hundreds of miles closer to his goal.  Closer to the finish line.  Closer to getting on the plane and flying home to us.  These welcomed calls bring strong feelings of restlessness, waves of impatience, bouts of anxiousness and always an abundance of pride.  All of these emotions, these feelings, these words... they all bring me to one word they have in common - ANTSY.

According to dictionary.com. ants·y [ant-see] unable to sit or stand still; fidgety


There you have it - the description of our physical and emotional state as we anticipate the arrival of the guy we call Scarecrow.  We cannot wait to see him - yes, even his grizzly face and skeletal body.  We cannot wait to hug him tight - yes, hiker funk and all.  We cannot wait to have him home, to hear his stories, to see his smile, and hear his voice.  Yes, we are ANTSY.  There is so much to look forward to in the next 26 days, all coming from the guy we call Scarecrow.

~The Thruhiker's Wife~

Welcome to Washington...

After talking with Teddy over the weekend, I have lots to share.  This is actually a delayed receipt of a beautiful picture of Teddy back in Crater Lake, Oregon.  Teddy had wanted to see this place for years, and when he arrived it was foggy and overcast.  He had not intended to stay overnight there, but circumstances had it where he ended up in the Belgium couple's room, out of the rain/snow and when he awoke the next morning, the clear beautiful day presented itself to Teddy for this awesome photo.  He was extremely grateful to have seen this piece of the trail with such clarity.  As posted earlier, it was only 20 miles later that he hiked into terrible weather and had to fast-forward 144 miles up the trail.  His experience from there has been amazing.  Let me share...   The first story is one I did NOT hear from my husband, but from an email I received on my phone earlier today... it fuels my positive energy and is continuing to restore my faith in the kindness and goodness in people - I was just happy and grateful to hear Teddy's spirits were up.  The email is posted below:

Hi there Thru-Hikers Wife,

        On Wednesday, October 12TH, I was set up on the Eagle Creek / PCT junction, in Oregon, when at dusk your husband came down the PCT, he said he was a Thru-Hiker, and asked politely if he could camp by me, I of course said that would be fine.  I found it amazing that someone that has been hiking, carry a lot weight, in cold rain this pass week, could be in such great spirits!  I enjoyed hearing his stories, and the ones I have read on your blog so far.  I have a flexible schedule, so if Ted / Scarecrow, needs a ride around Oregon, Washington, etc don't hesitate to give me a call, or email.  :Doug

Thank you to Doug, for your support and kindness towards Scarecrow - I know he appreciated the company as much as I appreciate the update. 

After getting back on the trail in Sisters, Oregon, where he resupplied, received our packages, and rested up, it was onward towards Cascade Locks - the last stop in Oregon.  He made it there on Friday, and luckily I got to talk with him several times over the course of the next two days. He chatted for a few minutes with me, Laura and Alex at work - that's always interesting, right Alex?? And, unfortunately, at one point he called during the middle of the controlled chaos going on at our home Friday night and said, "What the hell is going on over there?" - yes, we hosted 17 junior varsity soccer girls at the house for a pasta dinner, tye-dying shirts and loud music (all which Teddy loves) - we couldn't even hear each other over the phone, so I had to delay the gathering of my blog information until the next morning.  NEVER a dull moment for the Warrens.

Teddy was looking forward to eating at the Pacific Crest Pub http://www.pacificcrestpub.com where he sat at the bar enjoying his burger and beer.  Teddy asked me to mention to our friends (and awesome supporters) Pattie and Derrick Grieco that he ordered a beer called "Walking Man" - he said it was great, and chose it for its most appropriate title.  While sitting at the bar enjoying his meal, the bartender said there was a family sitting over at a table that wanted him to join them for a drink at their table.  They had asked about the title of the place, and if there were any thruhikers that came in and the waitress said, "As a matter of fact, we have a thruhiker sitting at the bar."  Teddy said he joined them at the table and had wonderful conversation - they wanted to ask him questions about his experience, and hear his stories... more trail angels that have blessed my husband's journey.  What was even more wonderful, is that I received the following email on my phone earlier today:
 

I am happy to let you know we bought Scarecrow a beer in Cascade Locks, OR last night at the Pacific Crest Pub.  We really enjoyed his stories about his adventures and wish him well on the rest of his journey.  When you get him back on your trail he really needs a razor and some fattening up.  We are proud to have met him and wish him well.   George, Loretta & Rob Melanson

Thank you to the Melanson family for good company, a delicious beer, and a kind, generous spirit.   I agree on both points - the RAZOR is a must, and Thanksgiving is right around the corner - his barbecued turkey will fatten him right up.
 The abundance of trail angels is ongoing... the emails I have received are inspiring - random strangers to us, sharing their stories about their encounters with Scarecrow...  we are truly blessed and thankful for each and every one.  Onward Scarecrow trekked, getting closer to the Washington border.  Teddy's next point of interest would be the Bridge of the Gods.  According to Wikipedia, 

The Bridge of the Gods is a steel truss cantilever bridge that spans the Columbia River between Cascade Locks, Oregon and Washington state.  The Pacific Crest Trail crosses the Columbia River on the Bridge of the Gods and the lowest elevation of the trail is on this bridge.

In the picture at the left, you can see the PCT symbol at the top of the trestle noting the Pacific Crest Trail, with the actual bridge behind it.  This was an exciting moment for Teddy, as once he crosses the bridge, he enters the state of Washington.  The bridge itself is 1,856 feet (a little over three tenths of a mile).   

I must say, as "furry" as Teddy looks, he is radiating happiness, determination and a sense of accomplishment - as he should.  He is in the home stretch (about 600 miles left).  We did begin to calculate his completion date more accurately, based on his location, hiking speed and walking/rest days needed.  It looks as if he will NOT be arriving home on his targeted finish date of Halloween - we are looking more realistically at a finish date of November 13th, with a flight home on the 15th.  Although disappointed about the delay, we are excited about the fact it is only a month away - a mere 4 weeks left until we can see this furry, (probably really smelly), accomplished thruhiker of the Pacific Crest Trail.
So, Teddy traveled over this bridge and sent the picture with the caption "I'm on the move."

  

entering the Bridge of the Gods

From the looks of the pictures, it doesn't look warm or sunny, but I do NOT see snow on the ground, so we are in great shape.


what does look a bit challenging are the snowy mountains in the background - YES, that is the direction in which the trail heads...

I am praying for a smooth, warm, expeditious journey for Scarecrow.   He has alot to look forward to - an upcoming visit to my cousin's home, that will include some delicious home cooked meals, a comfy bed, some care packages and treats from family and friends, wonderful company, and some much needed rest.  A day to rejuvenate his body, mind and soul for the last leg of his journey.   More immediately than all of those rewards, Teddy took out some time to celebrate his entrance into Washington with a container of Ben and Jerry's Red Velvet Cake ice cream... the next picture was sent with the text "I'm now in Washington - first I have to celebrate."

Welcome to Washington

 

 

 Enjoy your ice cream, Scarecrow - you surely deserve it.  Teddy said he will probably not call again for 6 to 7 days  :( the cell phone signal is next to none, and he will not be in another town until Friday.  I wonder how many trail angels he will encounter between now and then - I certainly cannot wait to hear about it.
Until next time,
~ The Thruhiker's Wife ~

Blessings...

Out of difficulties grow miracles.  ~ Jean De La Bruyere

With the turn of a new day, comes lots of blessings... Teddy and I are so grateful for all that flooded into our lives over the past several hours and days.  So, the 300 mile diversion Teddy thought he had to take due to bad weather just outside of Crater Lake turned into a mere 144 mile section being temporarily skipped instead - WHAT A DIFFERENCE A DAY MAKES...

via google images

We both agreed that there is a reason why he was not meant to hike that section during that particular time - perhaps there was some hiker-eating monster up in the mountains, or another storm was brewing , or it could have been to simply allow him to take advantage of the great sale at REI on his boots... whatever halted his progress there allowed him to mentally and physically resupply, call home, and then move on.

Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit. ~Napoleon Hill

Teddy's trail angels, Lloyd Gust and Lloyd Miller picked Teddy up, as promised, and brought him into Bend, Oregon where he was able to purchase his new winter hiking boots, resupply his pack and call home with some positive news.  The information seemed bitter sweet - Teddy found out that just 30 miles from the blizzard like conditions he was hiking in yesterday, there was not an ounce of snow on the ground - the trail was untouched by inclement weather.  He was a bit disappointed that he had already traveled up the 144 miles, and wasn't able to jump back on the trail to only have to return for the 30 impenetrable miles - but immediately begun to be thankful for the safety and availability for resupply he was surrounded in now.  He said "Having to return to hike 144 miles is a hell of alot better than 300 miles."  According to his average daily mileage, he can bang that 144 miles out in  less than 6 days.
So, onward to his ever-changing newest plan of attack - he is being dropped off in Sisters, Oregon - mile 2,010 on the trail.   He will continue walking, hopefully with some new-found thruhikers, onward to Canada only 5 or so days ahead of where he would have been prior to the weather hiccup he experienced.  Once he reaches Canada, he will make his way back down into Oregon and decide whether he will hike that last 144 miles northbound or southbound - I guess it will depend on the weather at that minute... and once that task is done, he will have completed the total 2,650 miles that make up the Pacific Crest Trail.

I hope I didn't confuse anyone who is actually trying to keep track of all this mileage stuff - all I know is that the plan is better than the one we formulated yesterday, which in turn lifted Teddy's spirits, which in turn lifted my spirits, which in turn allowed me to sigh relief and breathe again, which in turn allowed my children to see the "positive, rational, closer to normal" side of me again... everyone wins...

So, he is back up and hiking... looking to be in Cascade Locks in a few days, hopefully with a cell phone signal so he can send some pictures - he entered back on the trail at 1,856 - exactly where he stepped off - this means he is days away from hitting the 2,000 mile mark.  He already has his candy ready to eat in celebration of the milestone.

There are no mistakes, no coincidences. All events are blessings given to us to learn from.
 ~Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

Thank you for these blessings ~ thank you for the lessons...

~ The Thruhiker's Wife ~

Flip Flops in October??

via google images

A surprised call from Teddy - I, as always, immediately began bombarding him with the questions - how far did you get? where are you now??  His response... "Babe, I have a situation."  I continued to talk over him, letting him know that I was able to, with help, get everything done that he needed from Monday's call, and when each of the packages would arrive, etc.  He interrupted pretty firmly, and repeated, "Babe, I have a situation."


More panic set in, but this time I could not contain it... of course, my first reaction was to begin crying - yes, I was hysterical even before I heard of what he was saying... He promptly told me that he was not hurt, but was not sure of if he would be able to finish the trail.  A flood of everything came rushing in... confusion, sadness, frustration, worry, anger... strangely enough, never relief.  What could have gone wrong that would cause him to stop NOW?? With almost 1,900 miles under his belt... what could possibly be happening ??


A freak snow storm in Oregon - that's what is happening.  Let me start from the beginning of Teddy's latest story.  After hiking out of Crater Lake for about 20 miles, Teddy pitched his tent for the night in Diamond Lake - a camping area in the woods about 7 miles from the PCT.  It had been raining, so when he removed his boots, he opened up all the laces, pulled out the tongue, and let them air out for the night in his tent.  When he awoke the next morning, 4 inches of snow had fallen, and his boots were FROZEN OPEN.  The socks he took off the night before were rolled up and frozen like baseballs... he packed up his camp, hands, feet and boots frozen and began hiking back towards the trail.  Because of the snow, he lost the trail.  He turned around and walked about a mile and a half onto the highway and made his way back to Diamond Lake to have some lunch and figure out what to do next.  It had stopped snowing down where he was eating, so he figured it wasn't snowing on the trail either, so hiked the 7 miles back into the trail to find another 4+ inches of snow had fallen.  He would never be able to maneuver through 8+ inches of snow, on a trail he could not locate, with shoes that were frozen open and about to expire.  Yes, if you remember, one of the things Teddy needed from Monday was a new pair of shoes... it is now 28 degrees out, and mentally and physically exhausted and frozen, Teddy said he nearly left his stuff on the trail and was thinking about heading to the nearest airport.  He trekked AGAIN back to Diamond Lake, and called me with his "situation."


My words of encouragement, support, and love were not working - any time Teddy called and he felt lonely or tired, I was able to talk him through it.  We were always able to turn things around and leave the conversation on a positive note.  Not today.  It didn't look as if I was going to be able to turn things around today.  We talked for a little while, and after throwing some different  ideas around, some alternate plans for moving forward, Teddy decided to go take a hot shower, clear his head, and he would call me back.  I knew in my heart that Teddy did not want to stop hiking.  I knew he did not want to fall short on his goal of being a PCT thruhiker... he just didn't see how he could go on under the current circumstances.  And quite frankly, neither did I.  


After a good cry and a wonderful conversation with Teddy's sister Dawn, I was ready to hear from Teddy when he called.  My clarity in the situation and faith in Teddy and his mission was restored by Dawn, her Angel cards, and lots of prayers to God.  I was ready to help him turn things around.  I was ready to help him get back on his way.  I prayed that he too, was ready.


He did call, and I believe a hot shower and some food did Teddy wonders.  We got back on the phone and made a plan.   Enter "flip flop".  According to Wikipedia,   flip-flopping can take many forms but is often the term used to describe beginning at one end (on the PCT, usually the southern end) of the trail and then, at some point, like reaching the Sierra, going to the end of the trail (Manning Park in B.C.) and hiking southbound to finish the trail.
With maps in front of both of us, Teddy explained how he would, with the help of several trail angels, get driven up to Cascade Locks, the last town stop in Oregon, about 300 miles up the trail.

He will continue from that point, and hike north into Canada to the Northern Terminus of the trail, and then get back to Cascade Locks and hike the last 300 miles he had to skip due to the freak snow storm that had occurred.  Now, in case you are wondering, YES - Teddy would still be considered a thruhiker.  Thruhiking is a term used in referring to hikers who complete long distance trails from end-to-end in a single trip.  Basically, it does not matter what order you hike it in, as long as it is in the same calendar year, in one continuous trip.  
Ultimately, Teddy discerned that flip-flopping and finishing was more enticing than dangerously moving forward through the remaining 30% of the trail with an uncertain outcome.

Several things had to happen here to make this new plan a success.  I had to cancel his new shoe order, find a boot outfitter up in the next town, and he needed to secure a ride up the trail.  All were a success... confirmation email of the cancellation was received, there is a new pair of size 14 boots (and on sale - yipee) waiting for Teddy in Bend, Oregon and a trail angel named Lloyd Gust, along with Lloyd Miller will travel 45+ miles to retrieve Teddy, bring him to get his boots, packages, resupply and up to Cascade Locks.  

From there, Teddy will hike the Washington section of the trail and then return to finish the remaining 300 miles of Oregon.  Like I try to do in any situation,  let me point out all of the POSITIVES:  Scarecrow will now be hiking with other thruhikers in Washington, he will bypass the nasty storm going on in Oregon, take advantage of the opportunity to hike the rest of the trail without fear of it closing down due to weather, and go back when the weather is favorable in Oregon.  The only down-side to this plan - he will not have completed the trail "in order".  Small sacrifice to make for his safety, and possibly jeopardizing his status as a thruhiker of the PCT.  Anyway, who doesn't like flip flops??

Relieved to be continuing as,
~The Thruhiker's Wife~ 

So Many Angels, So Little Time...

Ok, so the phone rings, with an immediate announcement - "Babe - I have 11 minutes to talk to you, so let me tell you what I need mailed out by Wednesday..."  It got pretty tricky for us, as I was asking a million questions about nothing to do with what he needed mailed out.  I felt it important to find out stuff for the blog - like where are you?? What mile marker did you hit?? How cold is it?  Did you know that there's 28 days until Halloween?? Where can we mail you goodies next?? All those answers, thankfully, came before we got disconnected, and I will share later in the blog.

Teddy was more concerned about telling me what he needed NOW - his sleeping bag liner, more water drops, another pair of shoes (I believe pair #5) and a GPS with all the coordinates of the PCT in the state of Washington inputted and mailed out by Wednesday.  Oh, and the maps printed out, double sided (to save on weight) sent too.

via pcta.org

Panic set in, silently of course, as I did not want to fall apart now, with 1800 + miles under my belt of holding it together, with the confident voice of "whatever you need Honey, I'll handle it" being sucked right out of me.

Enter in, MY trail angels... Uncle Ed - with one frantic phone call to Virginia and a nice conversation, Teddy's maps are being sent out tomorrow.  Just like that.  He has been following Teddy's adventure this whole time - maps are hanging in his office at work, along with pictures of Teddy's adventures along the way for all to enjoy... Little did Uncle Ed know that it would be him that keeps Scarecrow accurately on the trail, and not wandering through the snow somewhere.

via clipart

Another trail angel is my brother Kenn, although at the moment I am typing this, he doesn't know it yet... He will, this evening, have to help me learn how to turn on, make sense of, and program all of the coordinates into his GPS needed to navigate the Washington section of the trail through snow, and then be willing to part with it as I mail it off to my husband, who is expecting it later this week.  Let's hope that Montrail and Eastern Mountain Sports will be just as accommodating to me with my requests for them via phone...

So, Teddy is requesting all of these trail aids, because it is a realistic concern of his now, that the trail will be covered in snow in a few weeks or less, and he will not be able to navigate through without the half-mile maps and GPS.  There were already so many deal breakers for me along his journey that will cause me NEVER to attempt this hike, but the snow covered trail??  that cemented my decision for good...

We were upset to realize that Teddy missed some trail magic of his own sent from our wonderful family and friends... but, the wonderful people of Dunsmuir and Ashland Post Offices have agreed to forward the letter and package (thank you to Uncle Ed Utz and Carole Pentzel) that didn't quite make it there when Teddy did... Scarecrow - I hope you realize just how many people have helped US throughout this journey... trail angels are EVERYWHERE***

via google images

Yet another trail angel of mine, is my cousin Beth Rutkowski Jump.  Her, along with her husband, and children have agreed to open their home to my wandering husband for a day or two.  She will pick Teddy up  when he is about half way through Washington, at Snoqualmie Pass, bring him home, feed him, allow him to shower, sleep in a real bed, experience some family time, and then drive him back to the trail.  If that was not generous enough, she has agreed to accept any packages/mail for Teddy until he gets up there.  Their address is listed below.  Teddy should arrive there anywhere between October 21-26.  I cannot thank the Jump family enough for their generous nature and hospitality towards Teddy, whom they have never met, at a time in the trail when he will need a bit of TLC before the homestretch of 250 miles...

via google images

Teddy was able to call back this evening from a payphone at the Crater Lake Lodge with yet ANOTHER story of trail angels spreading their magic.  It was raining and lightly snowing today as Teddy hiked towards the lodge - that means he was freezing and soaking wet.  He was offered a ride up to the lodge, but because the lodge is actually on the trail, and he being a purist who will not skip a single mile, turned down the ride and continued to walk through the rain and snow.  He heard there was a fireplace and a payphone in the lobby, so he was determined to make his way there.  Upon arrival, he noticed two fully packed bicycles parked, and immediately found their owners near by.

via google images

A couple from Belgium, Collin and Vanessa, came to the United States to bicycle from Seattle, Washington to Mexico.  They got into talking with Scarecrow, and were amazed at his adventure of walking the reverse of what they were about to cycle though.  They shared a trail angel story with him, about a woman who heard of their adventure plans, and went right up to the counter at the lodge and rented them a room for the night.  Simply out of the goodness of her heart, and the admiration of the couple's undertaking - they found themselves with a room for the night.  They, in turn, extended their kindness to Teddy, and offered him use of their shower, and allowed him to lay his therma-rest and sleeping bag on the floor, instead of outside, in his tent, in the freezing rain and snow.

via google images

So, as I come to an emotional close of this blog entry, I will share what I got out of Ted when it was finally my turn to ask the questions.  He is happy.  He is cold. He is strong.  He is tired.  He is grateful.  He is currently at 1,838 miles in, with 812 left.  Any and all correspondence with Teddy should now be sent to him in care of my wonderful cousin:


Beth Jump
18104 NE 110th Way
Redmond, WA 98052

I am so truly blessed and thankful to God and ALL of the angels that have helped Teddy through this amazing journey.  There are many of you that I get to talk to and thank, but just as many that I do not...

via google images

 THANK YOU... THANK YOU... THANK YOU...

~ The Thruhiker's Wife ~