Cast of Characters
Brooke in Bishop
The amazing and adventurous mom who cared enough to take three dirty hikers from Kmart to the trail in Inyo. Thanks to Brooke, her best friend, her little girls and to Coco.
Josh, Ryan and Cracker
After individually meeting each of these guys along the trail, we found all three lunching atop Mather Pass. We destroyed their peaceful silence, I think, but enjoyed such a nice lunch with them. They generously donated food and chocolate treats to our pathetic food fund, and won solid gold stars in the boys' minds and hearts. My guys will never forget the chocolate, and will forever remember that "three cool guys" gave them TWIX! and HAZELNUT PEANUT BUTTER! All great boys, with good spirits. Hope you made it over ok!
Treehugger and Petunia
Traveling since May from Oregon (!) this couple gave us our trail names, and recommended Jenny's Cafe in Independence. Treehugger also told us some great stories from his camping and adventuring days as a boy. They are an inspiration, and I can only applaud such a mission as the PCT; whole heartedly in awe.
Mustache Man
Helped us along the River Path, and refers to our trip as legalized child abuse. In a supportive way. We saw him again on top of Kearsarge, and he was super happy to see that we stayed the course. Thanks to him for his encouragement and direction.
Judy Palmer
Judy met us on Pinchot Pass, and later became a dear friend. Eternally grateful to her. She stretched the kindness of the trail into real life, and introduced us to a new home in Independence. Independence definitely became the safe in-between worlds hide-out for me and the boys, and we have Judy to thank for showing us the entrance to its rabbithole.
Chris from Switzerland
An adventurer in his sixties, who had climbed 24,000 ft mountains in Pakistan, among many other challenges, and was walking the JMT South to North. He was our angel.
Troop 204
Best group of young men yet! These scouts and their fathers treated us like family and fed us the most delicious fajitas and brownies we have ever eaten. The boys have a new picture in their heads of what a grown boy should be, and I couldn't ask for better surprise mentors. Thank you!
The Llama Guys
Jack, Lord of the Llamas and Mike were sweet enough to let the boys meet their llamas, feed their llamas and learn to love these animals. Who knew llamas were so great?
Super Strong Girls
Two friends, one from Seattle the other from Colorado, met each other to travel the JMT, and met us at Glen Pass. They were each carrying about fifty pounds when we met them, but started at 75 lbs! They were the symbol of strong for us this trip.
Mary and Independence
Our newest and dearest: Mary, Nancy, Judy and Independence friends Annette, Linda, Jenny, Carma, Brian and Naiya (forgive the spelling). The boys cried missing you all, and love you very much.
Party on Kearsarge
Teachers, parents, rangers (one from Cambridge!) all lunched and shared stories on this peak. I don't have a particular person to thank, but I am grateful for the atmosphere created by this trail. The endurance, respect and enthusiasm found in these travelers, allowed for such impromptu parties and meetings, and the momentary connection is worth noting.
Paul
Heard about the boys from the hikers before us, and popped onto the trail just as we needed his help. He gave the boys treats, and gave the boys a hand and confidence to cross a tricky river.
Three Great Guys at Three Rivers Rushing
These guys kept us company through some barren terrain, and helped the boys cross the last of the anticipated, dreadful rivers. Thanks!