It's Always About People

I've been trying to be diligent about posting more regularly. I have a full brain to share but I overthink the process and sabotage my efforts. Instead of just getting it out - good or bad - I don't share. So, in an attempt to be more prolific with my posts, I am going to be less concerned with perfection and more dedicated to sharing.

On that note, I've had numerous support for my trip that has come from expected and unexpected sources. These serve as waypoints before the journey and are just as important as the physical waypoints I will have on my OnX map. 

One of those waypoints is Barbara. I met her on a street in Pentoga, Mi. There are only 3 streets in Pentoga and that counts the alley that runs through "town", a term used loosely here. I was on mile 8 of a 10 mile hike in preparation for the Bob. Barbara was walking towards me, and both of us being friendly, said hi. She crossed the street for her divine appointment. 

Barbara loves Jesus and having been witness to multiple miracles of addiction recovery, she was ready to share her love for Jesus and make sure I knew about it too. Well, that took about 3 minutes because Barbara and I are on the same train. 

She asked where I was headed and she quickly asked if she could pray over me. There was never a more perfect prayer said for a backpacking trip. I was humbled and walked away with joy and confidence that God had again shown me His blessing and confirmation for this trip. 

Another waypoint is my husband's friend Mike Spaudling. Without his willingness to drive me from the airport to the trailhead I would have cancelled my trip. This was a real possibility because all shuttles are booked and there are no car rentals available. I prayed to God that if he wanted me to go, I would need a ride lined up before July 1st. Mike lives in Montana and graciously told Joe he would get me to the trailhead. WOW. That's a full day commitment. What generosity to support a woman he has met just a few times. 

And finally, there's Tom Pennington, AKA The Pentoga Blogger, Arctic Professor, Alaska Professor, and all around good man. We struck up a conversation in February sometime, crossing paths on Pentoga Road - he was hiking and we were leaving our cabin in the Nicolet Forest. Tom is a hiker and planning a through trip of the Appalachian Trail next year, in the hopes of being perhaps the 50th septuagenarian to complete the trail. He has been an encourager to me and provided wisdom from his many years of hiking experience in Maine and Alaska, and of course, many other places. 

These individuals have already given me so much — even before I have gone on the journey. And I am so thank-full for them. I hope that i can be one of these waypoints for others on their journey, whether that is surviving high school, a job transition, divorce, or just life. 

 

Me & Barbara in Pentoga. See the joy?!