First off, I must apologize for the lack of substantive pre-departure updates. Suffice to say, Ive learned a lot about packing and planning for a month long hike with 4 postal resupplies!
Second, I must publicly thank my Lady Friend who was tremendously helpful and patient as my preparations encroached deeper and deeper into pre-departure time that was supposed to be for relaxation together. Thank you for all your support, it was invaluable; cant wait to hike the Chuo-alps with you in two weeks!
Finally, thanks for the well wishes and encouragement Ive been getting today. Everyones interest and support has done a lot to bolster my confidence as I set out on a hike of this scale for the first time. I appreciate it deeply.
My biggest fear was moving myself so far out of my routine for so long: would my personality survive, or would I peal back the layers only to find the facade supported by a lattice of daily drudgery?
But, looking out on ripe rice fields as I speed towards the coast, I feel the irrational and insatiable optimism that has birthed faith and progress into the world, and I feel that everything is in its right place.
I hope you do too.
Have an amazing ‘journey’, Hamilton. I hadn’t checked your map showing the route you were going to do until today – it looks awesome! Hope it all goes to plan, and good luck!
Good luck. Look forward to the prosaic report when you get back.
Hey. I was reading a few of my past posts, and wondered how you were doing. I hope you’re enjoying your journey, one step at a time, wherever you are. I hope to see your updates when you get to it. Hang in there! Mami