Rain

At any moment it is suppose to start raining, and continue for the next couple days.  Whats the big deal about rain you ask?

I live in Los Angeles, on a clear day, usually after some rain, I can see the Pacific Crest Trail from my front porch, I think. Most days I can see this lovely mountain range, but every once in awhile, when the air is very clear another mountain appears in the background. I think, that mountain is one that the pct passes over. I like to think so anyhow.. I know it's close, 14 miles as the crow flies, so I can dream I guess. 

California has been in a severe drought and any rain we get is a blessing! It's good for the farmers to the north in the inland empire, and good for our drinking water resources and many other reasons of course.  So, as much as most southern Californians get a little cranky when it rains and upsets their perfect sunny days, deep down we all know we need it.  

I have good/bad feelings towards the rains affect on my thru hike, for selfish reasons of course.  The less rain we get, the less snow I may encounter on the trail.  A low snow year makes for an easier 6 months. On the other hand, the less snow, the less water in streams.  Some people have already reported dry rivers in the desert sections. Snow melt equals water.  Liquid gold to a thru hiker!  The less reliable a water source is, the more water you have to carry.  Water is heavy.  There will be times when I will be carrying 15-20 pounds of water. 

Rain also affects my daily life.  Currently my only means of transportation is a scooter. While I have great rain gear, its still not very fun to drive in the rain. If I book a job this weekend, I will do what I have to do! I have a thru hike to fund and nothing will get in my way! 

Rainy days also mean getting stuff done at home, there is a resupply plan that has been looming over me, never leaving me alone, but I hate planning. No I loath planning. Planning my hike just seems to go against what I am looking for from this adventure, but its a necessary evil. It has to be done. So I guess if I'm stuck at home for the next couple days, I have no more excuses. I have to tackle this. 

I think back to Rain storms in Wisconsin. I have such fond memories of great thunderstorms! Sitting on front porches, surrounded by water pouring from the sky. Seeing amazing lightening and jumping when it thunders. The smells of the earth and concrete when wet.  My sister and I on the front porch of her farm trying to get pictures of lightening. Such fond memories. 

Ok Rain, bring it on...

I'm ready for you.

picture taken from my porch after the last rain. The pct is back there somewhere...