A girl, a backpack, and a macaroon

I recently ventured into the wilderness of good ol' southern California. Let me just say that mountains show no mercy. Most of my party had a goal of summiting Mt. Whitney. My goal was to enjoy myself as a new backpacker and all. (and by 'new' I mean - what am I getting myself into - new). Thankfully, it was a wonderful experience and I would do it again. Granted, I would opt for a few changes like not hiking 12 miles in one day, but that's how it works I guess.

There definitely is a sense of community that backpackers share. Every passing hiker was sure to greet the next and perhaps even stop for a chat about expectations for the upcoming trail. We made friends, shared stories, and God answered our prayers for multiplying our food as a neighboring backpacker offered us an abnormally large macaroon and leftover pasta. God was so evident!

A few notes from a first-timer:

'Not showering for five days/four nights is doable

'Going #1 and #2 in the forest becomes easier as the days pass

'Please don't play tricks by saying, "Uh oh someone is coming", when a friend is #1-ing or #2-ing

'Even if you think you are incapable , you are fully capable

'A worship playlist is needed after 11,700 ft

'There are no expectations for clean hands or clean feet

day one

day two

day three

*along with a friendly marmot

day four

day five was so focused on making it to the car that I don't have any photos. Oops.

Until next time.