Had a very productive weekend. I visited my parents down in the San Luis Obispo area and discussed my PCT plans at length. They are interested in dropping me at the border and meeting me on the trail at a couple of points for resupply. My dad is a real hiker too, so he may meet me at a road crossing and a hike a few days down the trail with me. That would be a welcome treat!
So the tentative plan os for my parents to drop me in Campo, then head into San Diego to visit my grandmother. On their way back home they are going to swing by the trail on highway 78 just outside of Julian. We figure that they can see in the early stages how my gear is working out, and make any last minute changes. They have also expressed interest in a resupply before the Sierras. That way they can bring my ice axe and bear canister. Then there is a tentative plan where my mom may drop my dad on the trail somewhere further slong and have him hike with me until the next major road crossing. I think Tuolumne Meadows to Sonora Pass on Hoghway 108 would be a natural choice, but we will see.
Fortunately for me I also have family spaced out along the trail. I haven't asked yet, but i may be able to get help with resupply from my brother, who is in central CA, my aunt and uncle, who are near the trail in central OR, and my other aunt and cousin, who are near the border between OR and WA. Additionally, I have friends who are generously offering to meet me throughout the NorCal region. I'm excited to report that my resupply should be a breeze with such a strong support network.
This weekend I also finally overcame my aversion to cutting excess straps from my pack. Once I snipped the first bit it became easier, and before I knew it I had shaved a fifth of a pound off my base weight. Not a lot, I admit, but still better than carrying unnecessary weight!
