a generous individual or group of individuals that provide acts of kindness to participants of outdoor events, on hiking trails or various biking routes. Trail angels are closely associated with trail magic. "Trail Angels" are commonly referred to in online hiking journals as friends of hikers, relatives or others persons who will often provide food, transportation, etc. to hikers on the trail.
So, we send Ted, his backpack, and walking stick off on a flight to San Diego. Now what. How does he actually begin the Pacific Crest Trail? That's where Trail Angels come in. Thanks to Trail Angels Scout and Frodo, Ted was picked up at the airport, brought to their home, fed, had a place to sleep, and was driven to the Southern Terminus of the PCT the next morning. Who are these amazing, generous people you ask? A wonderful couple who opened their home, shared their story and experience, and gave my husband that last bit of support he needed to begin his hike. I will forever be grateful for their part in Ted's journey.
You can actually read more about them if you are interested by going to: www.trailjournals.com/mann
I spoke with Ted after they dropped him off at the starting point, sending him off after the traditional photo shoot next to the monument. He was excited and ready to begin. I asked how many people were there, beginning their own journey along side him. Not a single other person has signed the log book in days. Uh-oh. He is truly beginning this trek ALONE. Alone with himself, his walking stick, and his ramen noodles.
He would not be alone for long. Ted said he was walking along and heard a rattlesnake. He said it nearly scared the S#@T out of him. We were warned by the post office the other day that they were out and ready to visit the hikers but it was startling none the less up close and personal. No injuries or graphic stories to report thank God.
Unfortunately, Ted has not sent many photos yet, so I cannot post any but this one with this entry. They will be up as soon as I receive them. He will have to get into a town shortly to resupply food and rest the blisters that are apparently forming on his left foot :( so I am sure we will receive them soon.
Until then,
The Thruhiker's Wife
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