Monday, April 24, 2023
This post is going to start rough, but it gets better at the end.
I am camped in Hauser Canyon right now with a bunch of other hikers. Honestly, I feel sick.
I don’t know if I’m having an anxiety attack or what, but this isn’t fun on day one. I was recently diagnosed with obsessive compulsive personality disorder and I think it is rearing it’s ugly head right now.
I don’t want to worry anyone with this post, but basically I’ve been sick to my stomach since lunch, save the last 3–4 miles where I hiked down to the canyon with a really nice couple from the Netherlands.
I forced myself to eat a bit of a freeze dried dinner, but a lot of it is left in my trash bag for now.
I’m now back in my tent and feeling a lot better after some meditation, talking to my amazing wife on my sat beacon, and holding my little stuffed Biffer that I brought along.
What a crazy day. I’m going to hike up to Morena in the morning (5 miles away, the first two being straight up) and see how I feel. Might spend the night there. Not sure.
Pics from today:
I finally calmed down and got some decent sleep. Not great, but decent. I woke up around 6:30, broke camp, stretched, and headed up the 1000 foot climb out of the canyon. This actually went ok and had some great views.
I’m now at Lake Morena at the malt shop with a bunch of other stinky hikers, waiting on a turkey sandwich for breakfast. I still am not hungry, but I’m going to try and get some calories.
Hoping to get to Cibbets campground tonight, but that’s about 13 more miles, so I may end up calling it a bit earlier.
Mexico to Canada 2023 
You can do this! It may be the build up anxiety from before you started this journey that releases now that you’re actually doing it. That’s a good thing! Happy to hear you encountered some nice Dutch people (I’m Dutch too!) you could join for a part of your hike. I see you’re at the Oak Shores Malt Shop now. Hopefully you’re able to get some ice cream.
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There and Back Again
In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit. Not a nasty, dirty, wet hole, filled with the ends of worms and an oozy smell, nor yet a dry, bare, sandy hole with nothing in it to sit down on or to eat: it was a hobbit-hole, and that means comfort.
Enjoy your adventure Ian the Brown!
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Looks amazing! Some pretty views to start, as I would have anticipated more of a low brush desert aesthetic on the eastern side of SD. Hang in there! Lots of emotions likely overflowing, but I’m guessing it will all settle down as you get into a routine. Enjoy the process. Lucky to enjoy this experience!
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As you know, I once hiked the Grand Canyon rim to rim in one day. Not something most sane people should try. Anyway, the point is: I had altitude sickness the whole way, but it was doable anyway. And ultimately I was glad I did it. Nerves might have played a role, too. I know you can do this, Ian, and I feel sure you‘ll get your trail stomach and trail legs in order soon. I have full confidence in you and I’m excited about all the experiences you’ll have!
Mom
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The first day anxiety is to be expected. You’re kicking off on a massive adventure of unknowns. Take it one step at a time!
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