Third Time's the Charm? (Heidi)

Wednesday evening, April 18, I am thinking about McKenna and where she is on the trail, wishing I could be with her, when I turn to C in our kitchen in Montana and wonder out loud if I can get back on the trail. Nothing more, just a thought. She's out of the desert and in some forests I had been looking forward to hiking. And I miss her.

The next day, C and I rent a backhoe and spend all day cleaning irrigation ditches and clearing up some of the winter deadfall. It's hard work and we're exhausted at the end of the day. But in bed that night, I start thinking about logistics of joining McKenna on the trail.

By Friday I'm 90% sure I'm going to try to meet her in Flagstaff. I let my boss, my client, and the young man that works for me know I'm probably going to take the next two weeks off. Everyone is supportive and encouraging... I am so lucky to have an understanding and supportive work team. C is also supportive; we both know McKenna is struggling on her own. Although he is worried about whether my feet are ready. So am I.

On Saturday I pack. I jump in my truck Sunday morning, heading south to Flagstaff. I've decided to not tell McKenna I'm driving down to meet her, but during the drive I'm plagued with doubts and uncertainties; what if she doesn't want me to slow her down, because I most certainly will.

Monday morning I'm in Kanab, Utah, having breakfast when I get a message from McKenna  wondering when her Grand Canyon resupply box will arrive. I start worrying that she may not take her zero today in Flag, and will take off before I can join her. I give her a call and tell her I haven't mailed her box yet, but will get it out later today, and it should be to the Grand Canyon as planned by the 28th. "Are you not going to take your zero today?" I innocently ask. She assures me she is not getting back on the trail until tomorrow. Whew. I get back on the road and continue heading to Flagstaff.

The closer to Flagstaff that I get, the more nervous and excited I get. As I pull into the driveway I see my girl working with her tent in the backyard. Perfect, she's there, and you've read her post, so you know what happens.

We're back on the trail again, starting at 7045 feet and setting up camp 6 miles and 150 feet later. A nice woodlands hike. My feet are happy. I'm happy.