Well, I’ve nearly done it. I’ve nearly crossed back over into civilized life. 10 nights straight in a bed betwixt cotton sheets, the opportunity to shower whenever the urge strikes (but I can’t say my interpretation of “clean” vs. “dirty” has returned to pre-PCT standards), and the water rinses clear when I wash my hands. I’ve moved back to toast for breakfast and blue jeans for everyday wear – but I’ve kept the habit of my activewear undies because they’re just sooooo comfy. I still struggle with remembering to put on deodorant every morning, but no one has complained of my stinky pits yet, so I’m not too concerned.

I’ve got the next week to finalize my transition back to “real life”, as my summer of frivolity concludes with a new job in Kiel, Wisconsin in mid-October. My idea of packing is now grossly skewed after living out of a backpack; though it isn’t expressly written in my work contract, I’m quite sure they frown upon wearing the same dusty clothes for days on end – I suppose I need to pack an expanded wardrobe. And while I know I can cook meals with just a 2 quart pan, I have grown accustomed again to multiple dish meals. This complicated stuff just makes me miss trail life a bit more keenly – “real life” is way too complicated!

So, after spending my 31st birthday making applesauce, hiking to find caterpillars to rescue, “I Spy”-ing white birch and wild cucumbers, and reliving Galileo’s tests of mass by dropping rocks, twigs, and leaves off the bridge – I suppose it’s time for me to grow up again. But I don’t think any of us really like that part… too bad pocketbooks get involved.

Here we go!