Only 11 days on the trail (mi 258) and I need some R&R at Grandma's house! I am glad I'm not the only one who needs to give their feet a break from the relentless abuse from the trail. Several other PCT hikers decided they liked the idea of a zero day at Grandma's in Big Bear. In addition to all of the amazing vistas and peaceful days spent outdoors there is an overwhelmingly positive human aspect to the trail. I just a small fraction of the trail I have meet more amazing people on and off the trail than I can count. Not only the other crazy PCT hikers, but the entire support network ("trail angels") that help get you through a dry desert or a ride to a nearby town for or just a simple smile and encouragement to keep pushing up through the seemingly unending footsteps to reach a goal.
Could not ask for a better group of people to share some laughs and miles with than the Lake Henshaw Resort Crew pictured above (Tweeky, Coolbeans, Scoots, Fudgie, Notbad, & Rome). Oh yeah, my trail name is C-Store! Short for convenience store due to the absurdity of food and beverage items sometimes lugged around in my pack (whole bottle of Sriracha, a cornucopia of condiments, and if the occasion calls for - it a few beers on ice).
It's about the smiles, not the miles!
Cheers!