Written by John Swart –

From April 16, 2014 – So much to say, but, unfortunately, little time to do so as I must muster my gear together and get to the Pacific Crest Trail trailhead at the Mexican border. Feeling VERY stressed, running on fumes (four hours of sleep in two nights), and flat out fearful.

I realized after arriving in San Diego and hooking up with friends, whom I will start the trail with, how woefully unprepared and naive I have been about this undertaking. Right now I have big doubts about whether it is possible or not, feeling like a deluded foolish old man, who may truly be bipolar (as some have suggested) and out of touch with reality. I guess “more will be revealed,” as they say in 12-step programs, as the next few days unfold.

The plan today is to hike for 21 miles through the desert to the first water source. We will hike for a little over a week and then attend the 2014 Annual Day Zero Pacific Crest Trail Kickoff celebration back at the trailhead. So it will be a while ’til the next blog article.

Just a quick thank you to all the generous folks who are supporting their favorite non-profits. I’m humbled by the outpouring of kindness I have received. A special thanks to HealthForce Nutrionals and Eclectic Institute for providing me with their outstanding super foods—the gold standard in nutrition, according to many. (Please see the videos I did with them.) Also many thanks to the French Broad Food Co-Op for all their help and support and to Tanis (see video) of Chomp Trail Foods.