Today is the Susquehanna Super Hike. I did not start. I'm not proud of that but I'm not upset about it either.
All week I've been resisting the voices in my head telling me it wasn't a good idea. Last night I made all the preparations from laying out the gear to setting the alarm. I figured out how to be able to use my small hydration pack and still
- bring a small first aid kit (it's a remote trail);
- pack extra socks (it rained a lot this week and there are several creek crossings)
- stash some emergency nutrition in case I needed it between aid stations
I was even up and dressed at 6 a.m. I was making coffee and toasting a bagel when I accepted that this was a mistake. Between vacation (which I did plan for) and pollen attacks (which I did not plan for) my last hike was July 25. I'd been to the course in early June and did just fine but that was at a time when I was hiking every weekend and sometimes twice in a weekend. I could probably manage the distance today but not the relentless climbs.
It is what it is. Like I said, I'm not proud of it but I'm not upset either. It was the right choice. My registration fee not only gave me the right to hike today (had I gone) but it also extended my membership in the Keystone Trails Association. So it's all good.
Instead I went out and had a very enjoyable two hours at Ridley Creek State Park. I left the phone/camera in the car and just hiked. So no photos today. And now I feel happy, at peace and strong. Life goes on.
-Keep smiling and keep moving
Paula
