September 20, 2013
Hopewell Lake to Mogote Ridge
~30 miles
Another great weather day by the sun! Everything seemed to go right today. Even with getting a later start than yesterday the miles seemed to come easy, partially due to a loooong (but easy) road walk. I dropped down below 9,000' for the first time in a while and saw, as well as smelled, some ponderosa pines.
On the mental side of things, I am definitely starting to feel loneliness creep in. I spend a good portion of my day listening to music or books, and sometimes singing to myself. I also have a tendency to make things a challenge or race in this case. Not that Mexico is going anywhere (at least that in aware of), but I seem to be in a rush to get there.
This is going to sound crazy but I extended my rest breaks from 10 minutes every 2-2.5 hours to 20 minutes and it made a world of difference in my experience. I know 10 minutes doesn't sound like enough, and you are totally right. In fact I bet 20 minutes doesn't sound like all that much either, but it was very nice! This change came about due to a song I was listening to with the lyric, "the secret of life is enjoying the passing of time." This reminded me of what a lady named Mary said to me when in Warner Springs a mere 110 miles into the PCT, "if you're not having fun, you're doing something wrong." Right on, Mary. Right on. Sometimes I just need a little reminder.
alex, You are doing great. As always, i love reading your posts and seeing your photos. I am so impressed with your progress and am envious of your journey. Take the advice you shared: enjoy this time on the trail as the fast pace of life and running when you return home will always be there, but this time is special and many people wish they could be doing the same. You are an inspiration, happy trails.
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