hiker friendly town

I slept at Fred Canyon Sunday night mile 32 . I left Fred at 5 a.m. climbing 2000 feet of elevation gain over a 10-mile stretch arrived at Mount Laguna, mile 42 before 9AM just as the pine house Diner opened. In that small dining room there were hikers from all over the world and they shared their stories of muscle pain, chafing and blisters .our bodies are adjusting to the environment and the rigors of Trail life.
 

Next Stop Shakedown!
A Shakedown is when you critically examine every item that you carry with the intention of reducing pack weight. I chose to consult the experts at Laguna Mountain sports outfitters .Richard ( hot legs)  was my primary specialist. He encouraged me to let go of Hardware that was holding me back. He shared techniques for using my remaining gear more effectively. it's easy to become attached to even the smallest bit of your kit. Richard was very helpful . several professionals conferred  to make my pack more comfortable. Some of my gear was donated to charity, some went to fellow hikers.The gear that I couldn't part with went to the post office.
The post office clerk was equally helpful getting me the best postal rate for sending my gear up north where I will need it in colder weather. Shakedown is emotionally draining. I rented a cabin at the Blue Jay Lodge with some help from the clerk at the General Store. Every person I met in that town helped to make my stay enjoyable. The cabin rate was $99. I would have paid 100 just for the use of the shower