“Home”

Today was the day to tag ‘The Monument’ on the US-Canadian Border and then start the long journey south. 

It was to be a 18 mile day, 3 more miles than yesterday. 

I walked alone for the first half of the day – enjoying the vista of the Cascade mountains before me. 

Like the plateau of the Cairngorms back home – small bright wild flowers etch out a life amidst the dry scree on the mountain side switchbacks. 

Later Yahtzee caught up with me and we walked together. It’s nice to have a trail friend -she’s easy going and good company. 

At the US – Canadian border we took photos, goofed about and chatted to another couple of hikers. 

On the way back to our tents we stopped to collect water from the river. I realised I’d forgot my water bladder and told Yahtzee: “I’ve left it at home”.

With a massive smile she asked: “Do you think of your tent as home now?”

And I realised I did. 

Apart from loved ones, I have all I need here. 

It’s early days but my tent and this walking life is starting to feel like home.