To assist my job hunt, I started a LinkedIn Account. From what I could surmise, it's basically a professionally oriented social network. Facebook sort of has a place for listing employment history, but this aspect is the cornerstone for LinkedIn. Anyway, I signed up and posted my job history, education, and skills, with the hope that someone may come along and offer me a job. The skills portion really bugged me in that I had only a few skills posted (Microsoft Office, Ubuntu, etc). I had a Bachelors Degree, but few skills to tangibly market to a prospective employer. Mind you, I don't like to think I'm a proud person, so I don't like to pompously boast abilities.
A few days later, I decided to add some more skills, specifically things I did when I was in a club or volunteering. Experience is experience, right? I didn't want my profile to echo the sentiments of a desperate "I can do...stuff." Problem was, I didn't know exactly what to add. I logged on with my iPod and, to my surprise, everything I could think to add (or didn't think) was there under "Suggested Skills." It's like the career gods read my mind and put everything there, waiting for me to add to my profile. I went all out and added everything I could build a case for (volunteer coordinating, event planning, and photography with the Anglo-Celtic Club way back in 2007-08; record keeping and teaching with the Geology Club; research, editing, and social media as a student; experience with a non-profit and Spanish in Ecuador; et cetera). When I was done, I had dozens of skills added, up from a paltry four or five. Even though most of what I had added were acquired as a student or a volunteer, seeing a tangible collection of my abilities on the screen definitely made me better about what I could offer in the professional world.
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Friday, August 12, 2011
My 3DS Review
The Nintendo 3DS is the ambitious new handheld by Nintendo, boasting better graphics and the ability to display 3D images without need of special glasses. With a price point of $250 at launch, it did not sell nearly as well as Nintendo had hoped, causing the company to cut the price of the system by $80 after only five months on the market. To salve any bitterness from early buyers, Nintendo is giving these people 20 free Virtual Console Games (10 NES and 10 GBA). I got my hands on a 3DS and a couple of games for it from Craigslist a few weeks back. After playing around with it for a while, here's my review of the Nintendo 3DS, The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly:
The Good:
The Nintendo 3DS boasts better graphics, faster processing, more memory, blah blah blah. It's a cool system capable of really pretty graphics or memory intensive programs (it can do Netflix!). The button layout is generally the same (D-Pad, four main buttons, L and R trigger, et cetera), but there are some new things added (circle pad, motion sensor, sliders for the 3D and the WiFi, et cetera). It's basically the same set-up which gives earlier system owners some familiarity, but the new stuff may come with a small period of adjustment. Unlike the DSi and the XL, you can actually import your DSiWare from those systems onto the 3DS, so your copy of Cave Story or Shantae: Risky's Revenge won't be lost if you trade in your older system. Not all apps will transfer though, like the web browser or Flipnote Studio as the 3DS is getting/has its own version. The eShop is a great improvement over the previous DSi Shop. Not only can you buy 3DSWare and Virtual Console (GB, GBC, Game Gear), you can also buy DSiWare. The software that's already on the system is a great demonstration of its capabilities and is actually fun to play (AR Games? MiiPlaza? Face Raiders? who knew?). There's also a pedometer (linked to a coin system, getting gamers to go walking with their 3DS) and a decently reliable web browser built right into the firmware. The internet works better on the 3DS with a WiiConnect24-like option to keep your system connected to the internet, even in sleep mode (this option can be turned off). Instead of each game having its own friend code for online play, there's now only ONE friend code for your system. And, of course, Nintendo promised a 3D effect without the need for glasses...and they delivered. It probably won't revolutionize gaming like the Wii, but it is a cool trick with a definite "Wow" factor the first time you try it. The built-in outward facing cameras can do 3D photographs instead of 2D like the DSi. It is a cool trick...
The Bad:
...one gives me a headache after about twenty minutes of use. There is a sliding mechanism on the console to let the user control the intensity of the 3D or even turn it off entirely. However, considering Nintendo is gambling heavily on consumers buying the system for the 3D effect, this is not a good sign, especially since my headaches are, by no means, an isolated incident. Battery life has become a HUGE complaint for 3DS owners. System tests by third parties put battery operation at 3 - 5 hours for 3DS software and 5 - 8 for DS software, versus up to 19 for a DS Lite. This does not bode well for potential transcontinental airline passengers looking to bring their new system along for a trip. The 3DS is backwards compatible with DS and DSi software. However, I have two issues with it: 1.) It makes the games look ugly. I was playing Dragon Quest IX with a friend and the text and general environment looked fuzzy, unlike when I played it on my DSi XL (which only stretches the pixels). There is a special option to make the resolution a 1:1 ratio on the screen. However, this makes the game look really small. 2.) The wireless will unexpectedly go out. Again, I was playing Dragon Quest IX in its Co-op mode and the connection between mine and my friend's system went out randomly. To be fair, it's only happened about 40-50% of connections. However, if I didn't say something about it, it wouldn't be right. Unfortunately for shutterbugs, the 3DS cameras are still only 0.3 megapixels and there's currently no option to upload directly to Facebook like there was with the DSi.
The Ugly:
Overall, it's a good system, but it's not perfect...and its expected to follow a really tough act. The DSwas is immensely popular with great software, tapping into a non-traditional gaming demographic, an area I feel Nintendo is failing to reach when marketing its new system. Sure, you can play DS games on the 3DS, but in the mind of a casual gamer, Brain Age is only $120 away on a DS Lite (game and system), versus $190 on a 3DS. Speaking of software, there currently isn't a lot out there right now. I have The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Super Street Fighter IV, but passed that, there isn't a lot out there to make me drop $30-40 on a new game (on their own, games are expensive...or maybe I'm spoiled). Lastly (and the 500 pound gorilla in the room), Nintendo's competing with the iPhone and other smart phone devices. Every dollar that goes to a copy of Angry Birds is a dollar not going to Nintendo. Every minute someone flings a cartoon bird at a green pig is a minute Zelda's not being played. Nintendo can tout that a $40 epic will satisfy a gamer more than a $.99 shot of gaming. However, quality is subjective and a person can have a lot of fun with a cheap or free game (e.g.: Angry Birds). Also, the landscape is vastly different than it was years ago. It used to be a person was playing a Game Boy when they were looking down at a device. Nowadays, ninety-nine times out of a hundred, it's a smart phone. Even kids have them, where I catch myself thinking, "Is that a DS? Nope...it's a Droid."
Again, on its own, the 3DS is good, warts and all. Not great, but good. It's following a tough act from the DS with pressure from the availability of smart phones. Is it worth buying at $170? Not yet. Wait for more games, unless you absolutely want to play Zelda or just to have another means of watching Netflix (truthfully, the 3DS Netflix experience for me is hit and miss). Nintendo needs to try and retake the non-traditional audience it built with the DS/Wii. It needs the equivalent of Brain Age or Wii Fit to entice customers to buy a 3DS, something a grandmother can play and enjoy...if it doesn't give her a headache within twenty minutes.
The Good:
The Nintendo 3DS boasts better graphics, faster processing, more memory, blah blah blah. It's a cool system capable of really pretty graphics or memory intensive programs (it can do Netflix!). The button layout is generally the same (D-Pad, four main buttons, L and R trigger, et cetera), but there are some new things added (circle pad, motion sensor, sliders for the 3D and the WiFi, et cetera). It's basically the same set-up which gives earlier system owners some familiarity, but the new stuff may come with a small period of adjustment. Unlike the DSi and the XL, you can actually import your DSiWare from those systems onto the 3DS, so your copy of Cave Story or Shantae: Risky's Revenge won't be lost if you trade in your older system. Not all apps will transfer though, like the web browser or Flipnote Studio as the 3DS is getting/has its own version. The eShop is a great improvement over the previous DSi Shop. Not only can you buy 3DSWare and Virtual Console (GB, GBC, Game Gear), you can also buy DSiWare. The software that's already on the system is a great demonstration of its capabilities and is actually fun to play (AR Games? MiiPlaza? Face Raiders? who knew?). There's also a pedometer (linked to a coin system, getting gamers to go walking with their 3DS) and a decently reliable web browser built right into the firmware. The internet works better on the 3DS with a WiiConnect24-like option to keep your system connected to the internet, even in sleep mode (this option can be turned off). Instead of each game having its own friend code for online play, there's now only ONE friend code for your system. And, of course, Nintendo promised a 3D effect without the need for glasses...and they delivered. It probably won't revolutionize gaming like the Wii, but it is a cool trick with a definite "Wow" factor the first time you try it. The built-in outward facing cameras can do 3D photographs instead of 2D like the DSi. It is a cool trick...
The Bad:
...one gives me a headache after about twenty minutes of use. There is a sliding mechanism on the console to let the user control the intensity of the 3D or even turn it off entirely. However, considering Nintendo is gambling heavily on consumers buying the system for the 3D effect, this is not a good sign, especially since my headaches are, by no means, an isolated incident. Battery life has become a HUGE complaint for 3DS owners. System tests by third parties put battery operation at 3 - 5 hours for 3DS software and 5 - 8 for DS software, versus up to 19 for a DS Lite. This does not bode well for potential transcontinental airline passengers looking to bring their new system along for a trip. The 3DS is backwards compatible with DS and DSi software. However, I have two issues with it: 1.) It makes the games look ugly. I was playing Dragon Quest IX with a friend and the text and general environment looked fuzzy, unlike when I played it on my DSi XL (which only stretches the pixels). There is a special option to make the resolution a 1:1 ratio on the screen. However, this makes the game look really small. 2.) The wireless will unexpectedly go out. Again, I was playing Dragon Quest IX in its Co-op mode and the connection between mine and my friend's system went out randomly. To be fair, it's only happened about 40-50% of connections. However, if I didn't say something about it, it wouldn't be right. Unfortunately for shutterbugs, the 3DS cameras are still only 0.3 megapixels and there's currently no option to upload directly to Facebook like there was with the DSi.
The Ugly:
Overall, it's a good system, but it's not perfect...and its expected to follow a really tough act. The DS
Again, on its own, the 3DS is good, warts and all. Not great, but good. It's following a tough act from the DS with pressure from the availability of smart phones. Is it worth buying at $170? Not yet. Wait for more games, unless you absolutely want to play Zelda or just to have another means of watching Netflix (truthfully, the 3DS Netflix experience for me is hit and miss). Nintendo needs to try and retake the non-traditional audience it built with the DS/Wii. It needs the equivalent of Brain Age or Wii Fit to entice customers to buy a 3DS, something a grandmother can play and enjoy...if it doesn't give her a headache within twenty minutes.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Wii Fit Journal #1
I originally bought Wii Fit when it first came out back in 2007. At that time, I was at my lightest weight in my adult life (195). When I actually started exercising, I gained weight, much to the displeasure of the cartoon balance board on the screen, considering my BMI was around 24-25 at the time and the goal was to get it down to 22. Muscle, I thought? Anyway, I continued regularly for about a month or so before quitting, ending at around 205 (went through a break-up during that time, so that might have had something to do with it). Since then, my relationship with my balance board was sparse. Every once in a while, I'd get back on it and work out, but that would only last a few days or so. My main source of physical activity was going hiking and backpacking. I would also do DDR, go running. I tried 5BX and had a few stints with that. Point is, I wasn't playing video games much and I was going outside for things to do. In 2009, I did the Wonderland Trail, a 100 mile loop in the state of Washington. I was definitely in the best shape of my life at that time. I think I was around 200 at that time. After that, I moved to Oregon...and things slowed down. I bought Wii Fit Plus when it came out, but again, it didn't last long. I think I stuck with it for about a week or so. I ran my first 5K race in May of 2010, with a time of around a half an hour. Not exactly blistering speeds, but I was still happy I managed to do the entire race. When my time at U of O started in the Fall of 2010, I was walking and riding my bicycle to school everyday, so I felt like my time with the Wii Fit was done. I know the game isn't meant to make you a Spartan, rather it's a springboard to higher levels of activity. I sold the bundle a few months ago on Craigslist...
...fast forward to this summer. I was having pains in my leg and lower back from bad posture (I partially blame the rubbish seating in summer school, but I digress). Also, I gained 10 pounds since the Winter term (complacent lifestyle, not hiking as much, eating junk, et cetera). I was still walking and biking to school though. Last week, I went onto Craigslist and bought a Wii Fit board with Wii Fit Plus (luckily, I got it cheaper than I sold it for). I had deleted my original file from my Wii when I sold my first board, so the cartoon balance board wasn't appalled at me gaining 10 pounds. I'm resolved to doing an hour of exercise every day (a half hour doing a randomly assembled Wii Fit Plus Routine and half an hour doing the "Free Run"). The idea is that I would do this everyday so that I would get some kind of physical activity if I didn't walk or ride my bike to school. Think of it like "If nothing else...", you know?
My routine burns around 380 calories it's over, so I can look forward to a legitimate pound of fat being burned every 9-10 days (3,500 calories equals one pound of body fat). Even when I'd gained the weight, I thought I was in decent shape. I can still do the push-ups, the plank, the yoga, and whatnot, but it's harder than I remembered the first time around. It definitely got me sweating (a good sign, I think).
Five days later (today), I've lost 3 pounds. I started at 216 and am now down to 213. Most of it is probably water weight though. More importantly, my leg and back pains are substantially less than they were. If nothing else, the Wii Fit has made me more aware about what I put into my mouth as far as calories versus nutrition. For example, if I eat "A" at this time, how might it affect tomorrow's weigh-in or my overall health?
Maybe I'm being vain. It was only 10 pounds since winter and there are folks who are struggling to lose much more than that. Thing is, my heaviest weight in my adult life was 255 and I don't want to go back there.
My last long stretch with Wii Fit was about a month or so. Why should this be any different? Truth is, I don't know if it will. I'd like to lose the weight I gained and adopt a healthier rhetoric when I'm done. However, I think that's a flaw in and of itself. Health is not a goal. It's a journey. The goal is not to get sick or injured. Again, Wii Fit is not meant to make anyone a Spartan or a Coastie. It's meant to get you to be aware of your body, maybe tone up some areas, and act as a springboard toward better health. Who knows, maybe I'll actually take up rock climbing later in life?
...fast forward to this summer. I was having pains in my leg and lower back from bad posture (I partially blame the rubbish seating in summer school, but I digress). Also, I gained 10 pounds since the Winter term (complacent lifestyle, not hiking as much, eating junk, et cetera). I was still walking and biking to school though. Last week, I went onto Craigslist and bought a Wii Fit board with Wii Fit Plus (luckily, I got it cheaper than I sold it for). I had deleted my original file from my Wii when I sold my first board, so the cartoon balance board wasn't appalled at me gaining 10 pounds. I'm resolved to doing an hour of exercise every day (a half hour doing a randomly assembled Wii Fit Plus Routine and half an hour doing the "Free Run"). The idea is that I would do this everyday so that I would get some kind of physical activity if I didn't walk or ride my bike to school. Think of it like "If nothing else...", you know?
My routine burns around 380 calories it's over, so I can look forward to a legitimate pound of fat being burned every 9-10 days (3,500 calories equals one pound of body fat). Even when I'd gained the weight, I thought I was in decent shape. I can still do the push-ups, the plank, the yoga, and whatnot, but it's harder than I remembered the first time around. It definitely got me sweating (a good sign, I think).
Five days later (today), I've lost 3 pounds. I started at 216 and am now down to 213. Most of it is probably water weight though. More importantly, my leg and back pains are substantially less than they were. If nothing else, the Wii Fit has made me more aware about what I put into my mouth as far as calories versus nutrition. For example, if I eat "A" at this time, how might it affect tomorrow's weigh-in or my overall health?
Maybe I'm being vain. It was only 10 pounds since winter and there are folks who are struggling to lose much more than that. Thing is, my heaviest weight in my adult life was 255 and I don't want to go back there.
My last long stretch with Wii Fit was about a month or so. Why should this be any different? Truth is, I don't know if it will. I'd like to lose the weight I gained and adopt a healthier rhetoric when I'm done. However, I think that's a flaw in and of itself. Health is not a goal. It's a journey. The goal is not to get sick or injured. Again, Wii Fit is not meant to make anyone a Spartan or a Coastie. It's meant to get you to be aware of your body, maybe tone up some areas, and act as a springboard toward better health. Who knows, maybe I'll actually take up rock climbing later in life?
Sunday, October 31, 2010
I voted today
Election Day in the US is coming up soon and there's a lot of talk about how this is one of the most important elections of all time (aren't they all?). In Oregon, we vote by mail. We receive our voter's packets in the mail (I got mine about two weeks ago, which included the ballot and a booklet with all of the candidates and the issues), we vote, and then we mail it back. Keeping in line with protocol, ballots must be received by November 2nd at 8pm. I really like this method over traditional voting procedures as we vote at our leisure with the issues in front of us to study instead of making time to go somewhere on November 2nd to vote. Here, the "I Don't Have Time" excuse is a dead issue. Anyway, I'd sent mine in today. I'd meant to get it done earlier, but I was busy with midterms. After I was done, I recycled my voter's booklet so I couldn't go back and second guess. I couldn't tell you who I voted for and, frankly, I'd like to keep it that way for future elections. To me, the names and the parties mean nothing. Good ideas and bad ideas are not politically biased (I voted for Republicans, Democrats, and Independents. Not that I made it a point to do so, but rather the candidate in question had the best ideas for the office he or she was going for). I voted for the best ideas and that's all that matters to me in an election.
Anyway, that's how I feel about it.
Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!
PS: Go out and vote. Make your voice heard!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Wonderland Trail 2009 Journal
Day One:
September 16th, 2009
12 Down, 87 To Go
I left Paradise at 8:30am after a hearty breakfast and blessings of good luck from friends and coworkers. On the way to Longmire, I met folks also on the Wonderland. One gentleman was finishing up the trail that afternoon, filling me with the idea that I could do it too just as he had. When asked about wildlife, he told me it's not a question of "If I'd see a bear, but rather WHEN," adding to my excitement in my endeavor. Got to Longmire around 11:15am. Met up with Hillary as I promised I'd drop by before I set off. She bought me a tarp and this journal. Had my lunch and left Longmire around noontime for the Devil's Dream Camp, my first campsite on the trail. The hike was more difficult than I thought. Having a forty-five pound pack on one's back as opposed to a day bag would do it, I imagine. On the way, it rained a little. I started to think about people who come to the park and call themselves "Nature Lovers" and how a lot of them stay inside during the rainy times. I think a true "Nature Lover" would go out regardless and enjoy the outdoors, be it the bright colors of the flowers in a meadow dancing against a clear blue sky or the smell of fresh rain that mingles with the tall pine. Got to Devil's Dream Camp at around 4:15pm. Along the way, I met some more folks along the Wonderland Trail, each taking a unique itinerary. Some plans were longer and some were shorter. It just goes to show that all people, no matter who they are or what they're doing, head to the same place in the end. My friend Andrew showed up at the camp site about an hour or so after I'd arrived. Company is always welcome on a solo hike for a morale boost, especially when I wasn't going to see a familiar face for a few days, at least until I got to Mowich Lake.
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Day Two:
September 17th, 2009
24.6 Down, 74.4 To Go
Much harder day than yesterday. Started hiking with Andrew at 8:20am. He followed me to the South Tahoma River Bridge where we parted ways at 10:15am. The hike was strenuous, with pleas of retirement, but I pressed on. Had lunch on top of Emerald Ridge. Saw a bear near Klapatche Park, but it ran away after a few seconds. Thought about how aesthetically similar a drop of water on a dry surface evaporates and how bees react when exposed to freezing temperatures. Bees huddle together to protect and preserve body heat for the queen in the center with drones on the outer layers of the circle freezing to death and dropping off, shrinking the circle, as does the drop of water on the dry surface, giving credence, perhaps, that water, along with all things in nature, is a living organism? Got to North Puyallup Camp at 6:15pm. The tent and some of my gear are still wet from last night. I need to get these dried out as soon as possible, else I risk water damage. Also worried about my camera's wonky behavior with batteries. More pressing, however, is my iodine supply. Half of my supply is missing from my pack, however I should have enough to get me to White River. Feeling cold, but satisfied I made it this far. Feeling sore. Hoping I'll "fly" either tomorrow or the day after. Missing Julia. The tent's a little empty without her. Hope she liked the roses. Also observed today that my career choice depends on my mood. A good mood brings about ideas of being a National Park Ranger or a Teacher. Depression brings about indifference. Something to mull over. Thought about the Coast Guard. That one goes either way, as either a step to better things or just something to do. Not feeling so arbitrary for another seasonal job. I would love to go back to school, serve my country somehow, and find a career. However, a lot of folks are saying that I have all the time in the world to find my niche.
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Day Three:
September 18th, 2009
35.6 Down, 63.4 To Go
Officially one-third of the way around the mountain! It was a very short day today. Left North Puyallup River Camp at 8am and arrived at the South Mowich River Camp at around 2pm. I think my body's finally acclimating to the trail. Feeling a little hard pressed to continue the extra four miles to Mowich Lake to meet Natalie and get my Cache early. Deciding to settle here for the night as I'm feeling a little sick. Ate a bad blueberry, perhaps? Interesting how simple or easy something is, there's always an inherent challenge. Such is life, after all. I had lunch at Golden Lakes, the west side's answer to the Three Lakes on the east side at Ohanapecosh. Saw a family of deer on the trail today. The South Mowich River's shelter is the Wonderland's Independence Rock, with a facebook of names of passed travellers throughout the years. It's an honor to be a part of the Trail's fabled history of adventurers. Really happy to be here right now.
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Day Four:
September 19th, 2009
48.7 Down, 50.3 to Go
Rained this morning. The wooden shelter has a leaky roof near the walls, but I slept near the center so I stayed dry for the most part. Lot of gear got wet, but what I kept in plastic bags stayed dry (thank you Steven for the tip). Camera's nearly ruined. It will not turn on anymore. Ah well, since when did you need a camera to enjoy a hike? Met Natalie at Mowich Lake and got my Cache. Great to see a familiar face. Also enjoyed a blueberry pancake that some folks were making in their Westfalia. After Natalie left, I walked around the lake and took photos. Moments later, my camera would act up. I did the Tolmie's Peak Fire Lookout. Now I've visited all four of the fire lookouts here at Mt. Rainier. However, the hike was a lot tougher than I thought. Extra weight of the Cache, maybe? Ipsut Pass is one of those places that reminded me of Machu Piccu, with the rolling green hills and stony cliffs. As such, I was nearly hit by a falling rock on my way into the valley. I made it to Ipsut Camp and found I had Scouts for neighbors, making me evaluate if I've been worthy of "Eagle" as of late. They seem friendly though. Weather forecast calls for nice weather for the rest of the trip, but I think I hear thunder so I got my rainfly up. My poncho is destroyed. Boots are getting holes. Sleeping bag had a broken zipper, but I did fix that. Ipsut is a graveyard for campgrounds. A lot of them were destroyed in the flood twenty years ago. The Ranger's Station had a tree uproot and fall through it, destroying half of the structure. The park was talking about reopening the camp recently with different options on how to deal with the river and its occasional flooding. Nearly halfway through the trek. Had Macaroni and Cheese to celebrate, breaking the routine of Ramen Noodles for dinner. Feet hurt, back and shoulders sore, but great otherwise. Fifteen miles until I'm in familiar territory.
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Day Five:
September 20th, 2009
56.7 Down, 42.3 To Go
Started hiking at a little passed 9am, giving my stuff time to dry. It didn't rain, but the condensation in my tent from the rainfly got a lot of my stuff wet. Really wish my camera was working, because today had some of the most beautiful scenery yet. I saw the mighty Carbon Glacier and its destructive river. Rainier need not erupt to be devastating as it knocked out a part of the Wonderland Trail with recent flooding, so I was forced onto a detour. However, the detour was welcome as it followed near the Yellowstone Cliffs and its awesome sights. Ate lunch at Carbon Glacier and pondered my little Odyssey. In the past 200 years, people my age have panned for gold, fought in world wars, cured diseases, and landed on the moon. I want do to something great with my life, but for now, this is me landing on the moon. I'm sure there will be others, tougher as life goes on, but for now, this will do nicely and the view is terrific. Winston Churchill said to do something interesting while in your twenties. Would this count? Yet, some call the Wonderland the adventure of a lifetime. To them, I say "Go live life more." This is literally just a walk in the park. As I got closer to Mystic Lake, I reached a prairie which I call "Marmot Country" due to the high number of these majestic ground squirrels. Looking to the east, I saw Skyscraper Peak and the Burroughs, trails that Julia and I conquered two months ago. I walked around Mystic Lake and can officially call it the most beautiful lake in the park. The ranger's station has a great view of the mountain. Arrived at the campsite a little before 4pm. Slow day, but not hard. This is the benchmark for the last day. Happy the sleeping bag is fixed because I heard Mystic Camp get cold. Maybe I'll wake up to frost as another party I met had. Officially halfway through. Smelling very bad, but feeling good.
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Day Six:
September 21st, 2009
68.4 Down, 30.6 To Go
Very cold night, but no frost. Left Mystic at around 8am and headed towards Granite Creek. On my way, I saw Mt. Baker for the first time, which made me happy. Met a dude named Kyle who's doing the trail in four days, which blew my mind, until he told me of the guy who did it in twenty hours. Would see Kyle later at camp with a bad knee. Offered him my Ibuprofen. Had lunch at Frozen Lake. Finished the first bag of gorp, making me rethink what I'll pick up when I get my next cache. Talked to a lot of folks today doing day hikes in Sunrise. Some were amazed at what I'd accomplished so far and offered congratulatory praises. I'm not finished on the trail yet. Met a guy with a topographical map and I essentially saw what I'll face in the last stretch of the trail. Tomorrow promises to be difficult, but it looks like nothing I haven't already done this summer. Met up with Natalie, Sean, and Branigan and got my cache at White River about 3:30pm. I changed my clothes. The new socks feel heavenly. We talked, joked, and had a beer. After forty-five minutes, they were on their way. I tried a freeze-dried camping meals. Not bad, but a tad overrated. Chili and Pasta tasted like Chili and soggy crackers. Met up with Kyle and we chatted about hiking and adventure. White River is nice. There's a campsite for Wonderlanders, away from the RVers. We all have access to the running water and flush toilets. One could get spoiled on this after nearly a week of pit toilets and iodine pills. The camera works again! Just in time for Indian Bar. Also celebrating that I'm officially two-thirds of the way through. I've found reasons to celebrate every night, no matter how pointless they seem. Like the day has its trials, there are also reasons to be happy. People should celebrate their lives more as there can be so much happiness to be found in their day to day lives.
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Day Seven:
September 22nd, 2009
79.6 Down, 19.4 To Go
Left White River a little before 8am. Enjoyed the returned use of my camera. The first leg of the trek, between White River and Summerland, went by quickly. 6.7 miles in a little under four hours. Had lunch at the Summerland's stone shelter and took in the vista. The latter part of the day was tough, very steep and rocky. When I got over Panhandle Ridge, I was greeted by a lovely valley and Mt. Adams. It's comforting to see familiar places. Got to camp a little before 4pm. Even though it was downhill from the gap, it was still steep. Indian Bar is a beautiful valley nestling a tiny cabin, which has been called the "Hilton of the Wonderland" due to its four walls and built-in bunk beds. If Indian Bar is the Hilton, I'd wager that South Mowich River's shelter is the Travelodge and Summerland is the Super 8. The grand vistas and the rustic nature make this a popular spot on the Wonderland. The site I put my tent has a nice view. I've officially been on Wonderland for a week now. Has it been that long already? The day after tomorrow, I'll be back at Paradise. I'm amazed I've gone this far as I've never hiked or camped like this in my life. It's almost over. I can do it!!! While Indian Bar is amazing and lives up to its reputation, I think Mystic Lake give it a run for its money. Indian Bar doesn't disappoint, like folks suggest, but I think it's better to let life surprise you.
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Day Eight:
September 23rd, 2009
99 Down, 0 To Go
Finished!!! I left Indian Bar a little before 8am and caught glimpses of the Tatoosh Range within an hour. I began to ponder just how far away from home I really am. More to the point, I wondered if I could make it to Paradise tonight instead of spending the night at Maple Creek, the last site on my itinerary. I told myself if I could make it to the Ollalie Trailhead by 11am, Nickel Creek Campsite by noon, Box Canyon by 1pm, and Maple Creek by 2pm, that would give me five and a half hours of daylight to finish the final nine miles. Well, I got to Ollalie at around 10:30am, Nickel Creek at 11:15am, and Box Canyon at 11:45am. I had my lunch at the Canyon and reorganized some of my gear for lighter and easier travel. At 11:55am, a bus rolled in from Seattle and my friends Cathy and Charina were on it. Again, I was happy to see familiar faces and we talked about the events of the past week. I'd told them I was contemplating finishing my trek a day early. To which, they asked what time they should expect me. I replied I expected to be there at around 8:30 or 9pm at the latest, assuming the worst case scenario of going one mile per hour due to extreme fatigue of hiking an extra nine miles. To which, they replied "Okay, see you tonight." They left on the bus at around 12:05pm. At this point, coming home tonight was almost an obligation, but I missed seeing everyone so I didn't mind so much. I started hiking soon after the bus took off. I arrived at Maple Creek at 1:15pm. With nearly an extra hour of daylight, I was all the more anxious. The Steven's Canyon leg of the Wonderland wasn't hard so much as it felt extremely long, and the fatigue didn't help alleviate conditions. I found myself singing Flogging Molly near Lake Louise to help pass time. Part of me wishes I'd stayed at Maple Creek as my fatigue prevented me from enjoying the Canyon as much as I'd wanted. I still enjoyed the Fall Colors, but some of the majesty and ambiance was robbed. I reached the familiar sights of Reflection Lakes and Narada Falls, the latter of which was the official start of the Wonderland. I had completed the loop. Words cannot express the joy that was shooting through my body. I walked to the edge of the lookout and thanked God for the trip, for the lessons I'd learned, and for the overall experience. It was 5:30pm and I had less than two miles to go. The final leg was long, ending at 6:15pm at the Paradise Inn. I went into the EDR and surprised everyone. It was great seeing everyone again. I had dinner and told stories of my trip. The one of the bear was a popular one. In nature, there are no conquerors, only survivors. I definitely felt stronger and wiser from the experience. I'd landed on the moon and returned to tell the tale. Currently looking for the next moon to land on. The next opportunity to become wiser and grow as a human being. Whatever may come, I hope to challenge it with my head held high, leaving only boot prints and a brighter disposition.
September 16th, 2009
12 Down, 87 To Go
I left Paradise at 8:30am after a hearty breakfast and blessings of good luck from friends and coworkers. On the way to Longmire, I met folks also on the Wonderland. One gentleman was finishing up the trail that afternoon, filling me with the idea that I could do it too just as he had. When asked about wildlife, he told me it's not a question of "If I'd see a bear, but rather WHEN," adding to my excitement in my endeavor. Got to Longmire around 11:15am. Met up with Hillary as I promised I'd drop by before I set off. She bought me a tarp and this journal. Had my lunch and left Longmire around noontime for the Devil's Dream Camp, my first campsite on the trail. The hike was more difficult than I thought. Having a forty-five pound pack on one's back as opposed to a day bag would do it, I imagine. On the way, it rained a little. I started to think about people who come to the park and call themselves "Nature Lovers" and how a lot of them stay inside during the rainy times. I think a true "Nature Lover" would go out regardless and enjoy the outdoors, be it the bright colors of the flowers in a meadow dancing against a clear blue sky or the smell of fresh rain that mingles with the tall pine. Got to Devil's Dream Camp at around 4:15pm. Along the way, I met some more folks along the Wonderland Trail, each taking a unique itinerary. Some plans were longer and some were shorter. It just goes to show that all people, no matter who they are or what they're doing, head to the same place in the end. My friend Andrew showed up at the camp site about an hour or so after I'd arrived. Company is always welcome on a solo hike for a morale boost, especially when I wasn't going to see a familiar face for a few days, at least until I got to Mowich Lake.
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Day Two:
September 17th, 2009
24.6 Down, 74.4 To Go
Much harder day than yesterday. Started hiking with Andrew at 8:20am. He followed me to the South Tahoma River Bridge where we parted ways at 10:15am. The hike was strenuous, with pleas of retirement, but I pressed on. Had lunch on top of Emerald Ridge. Saw a bear near Klapatche Park, but it ran away after a few seconds. Thought about how aesthetically similar a drop of water on a dry surface evaporates and how bees react when exposed to freezing temperatures. Bees huddle together to protect and preserve body heat for the queen in the center with drones on the outer layers of the circle freezing to death and dropping off, shrinking the circle, as does the drop of water on the dry surface, giving credence, perhaps, that water, along with all things in nature, is a living organism? Got to North Puyallup Camp at 6:15pm. The tent and some of my gear are still wet from last night. I need to get these dried out as soon as possible, else I risk water damage. Also worried about my camera's wonky behavior with batteries. More pressing, however, is my iodine supply. Half of my supply is missing from my pack, however I should have enough to get me to White River. Feeling cold, but satisfied I made it this far. Feeling sore. Hoping I'll "fly" either tomorrow or the day after. Missing Julia. The tent's a little empty without her. Hope she liked the roses. Also observed today that my career choice depends on my mood. A good mood brings about ideas of being a National Park Ranger or a Teacher. Depression brings about indifference. Something to mull over. Thought about the Coast Guard. That one goes either way, as either a step to better things or just something to do. Not feeling so arbitrary for another seasonal job. I would love to go back to school, serve my country somehow, and find a career. However, a lot of folks are saying that I have all the time in the world to find my niche.
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Day Three:
September 18th, 2009
35.6 Down, 63.4 To Go
Officially one-third of the way around the mountain! It was a very short day today. Left North Puyallup River Camp at 8am and arrived at the South Mowich River Camp at around 2pm. I think my body's finally acclimating to the trail. Feeling a little hard pressed to continue the extra four miles to Mowich Lake to meet Natalie and get my Cache early. Deciding to settle here for the night as I'm feeling a little sick. Ate a bad blueberry, perhaps? Interesting how simple or easy something is, there's always an inherent challenge. Such is life, after all. I had lunch at Golden Lakes, the west side's answer to the Three Lakes on the east side at Ohanapecosh. Saw a family of deer on the trail today. The South Mowich River's shelter is the Wonderland's Independence Rock, with a facebook of names of passed travellers throughout the years. It's an honor to be a part of the Trail's fabled history of adventurers. Really happy to be here right now.
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Day Four:
September 19th, 2009
48.7 Down, 50.3 to Go
Rained this morning. The wooden shelter has a leaky roof near the walls, but I slept near the center so I stayed dry for the most part. Lot of gear got wet, but what I kept in plastic bags stayed dry (thank you Steven for the tip). Camera's nearly ruined. It will not turn on anymore. Ah well, since when did you need a camera to enjoy a hike? Met Natalie at Mowich Lake and got my Cache. Great to see a familiar face. Also enjoyed a blueberry pancake that some folks were making in their Westfalia. After Natalie left, I walked around the lake and took photos. Moments later, my camera would act up. I did the Tolmie's Peak Fire Lookout. Now I've visited all four of the fire lookouts here at Mt. Rainier. However, the hike was a lot tougher than I thought. Extra weight of the Cache, maybe? Ipsut Pass is one of those places that reminded me of Machu Piccu, with the rolling green hills and stony cliffs. As such, I was nearly hit by a falling rock on my way into the valley. I made it to Ipsut Camp and found I had Scouts for neighbors, making me evaluate if I've been worthy of "Eagle" as of late. They seem friendly though. Weather forecast calls for nice weather for the rest of the trip, but I think I hear thunder so I got my rainfly up. My poncho is destroyed. Boots are getting holes. Sleeping bag had a broken zipper, but I did fix that. Ipsut is a graveyard for campgrounds. A lot of them were destroyed in the flood twenty years ago. The Ranger's Station had a tree uproot and fall through it, destroying half of the structure. The park was talking about reopening the camp recently with different options on how to deal with the river and its occasional flooding. Nearly halfway through the trek. Had Macaroni and Cheese to celebrate, breaking the routine of Ramen Noodles for dinner. Feet hurt, back and shoulders sore, but great otherwise. Fifteen miles until I'm in familiar territory.
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Day Five:
September 20th, 2009
56.7 Down, 42.3 To Go
Started hiking at a little passed 9am, giving my stuff time to dry. It didn't rain, but the condensation in my tent from the rainfly got a lot of my stuff wet. Really wish my camera was working, because today had some of the most beautiful scenery yet. I saw the mighty Carbon Glacier and its destructive river. Rainier need not erupt to be devastating as it knocked out a part of the Wonderland Trail with recent flooding, so I was forced onto a detour. However, the detour was welcome as it followed near the Yellowstone Cliffs and its awesome sights. Ate lunch at Carbon Glacier and pondered my little Odyssey. In the past 200 years, people my age have panned for gold, fought in world wars, cured diseases, and landed on the moon. I want do to something great with my life, but for now, this is me landing on the moon. I'm sure there will be others, tougher as life goes on, but for now, this will do nicely and the view is terrific. Winston Churchill said to do something interesting while in your twenties. Would this count? Yet, some call the Wonderland the adventure of a lifetime. To them, I say "Go live life more." This is literally just a walk in the park. As I got closer to Mystic Lake, I reached a prairie which I call "Marmot Country" due to the high number of these majestic ground squirrels. Looking to the east, I saw Skyscraper Peak and the Burroughs, trails that Julia and I conquered two months ago. I walked around Mystic Lake and can officially call it the most beautiful lake in the park. The ranger's station has a great view of the mountain. Arrived at the campsite a little before 4pm. Slow day, but not hard. This is the benchmark for the last day. Happy the sleeping bag is fixed because I heard Mystic Camp get cold. Maybe I'll wake up to frost as another party I met had. Officially halfway through. Smelling very bad, but feeling good.
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Day Six:
September 21st, 2009
68.4 Down, 30.6 To Go
Very cold night, but no frost. Left Mystic at around 8am and headed towards Granite Creek. On my way, I saw Mt. Baker for the first time, which made me happy. Met a dude named Kyle who's doing the trail in four days, which blew my mind, until he told me of the guy who did it in twenty hours. Would see Kyle later at camp with a bad knee. Offered him my Ibuprofen. Had lunch at Frozen Lake. Finished the first bag of gorp, making me rethink what I'll pick up when I get my next cache. Talked to a lot of folks today doing day hikes in Sunrise. Some were amazed at what I'd accomplished so far and offered congratulatory praises. I'm not finished on the trail yet. Met a guy with a topographical map and I essentially saw what I'll face in the last stretch of the trail. Tomorrow promises to be difficult, but it looks like nothing I haven't already done this summer. Met up with Natalie, Sean, and Branigan and got my cache at White River about 3:30pm. I changed my clothes. The new socks feel heavenly. We talked, joked, and had a beer. After forty-five minutes, they were on their way. I tried a freeze-dried camping meals. Not bad, but a tad overrated. Chili and Pasta tasted like Chili and soggy crackers. Met up with Kyle and we chatted about hiking and adventure. White River is nice. There's a campsite for Wonderlanders, away from the RVers. We all have access to the running water and flush toilets. One could get spoiled on this after nearly a week of pit toilets and iodine pills. The camera works again! Just in time for Indian Bar. Also celebrating that I'm officially two-thirds of the way through. I've found reasons to celebrate every night, no matter how pointless they seem. Like the day has its trials, there are also reasons to be happy. People should celebrate their lives more as there can be so much happiness to be found in their day to day lives.
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Day Seven:
September 22nd, 2009
79.6 Down, 19.4 To Go
Left White River a little before 8am. Enjoyed the returned use of my camera. The first leg of the trek, between White River and Summerland, went by quickly. 6.7 miles in a little under four hours. Had lunch at the Summerland's stone shelter and took in the vista. The latter part of the day was tough, very steep and rocky. When I got over Panhandle Ridge, I was greeted by a lovely valley and Mt. Adams. It's comforting to see familiar places. Got to camp a little before 4pm. Even though it was downhill from the gap, it was still steep. Indian Bar is a beautiful valley nestling a tiny cabin, which has been called the "Hilton of the Wonderland" due to its four walls and built-in bunk beds. If Indian Bar is the Hilton, I'd wager that South Mowich River's shelter is the Travelodge and Summerland is the Super 8. The grand vistas and the rustic nature make this a popular spot on the Wonderland. The site I put my tent has a nice view. I've officially been on Wonderland for a week now. Has it been that long already? The day after tomorrow, I'll be back at Paradise. I'm amazed I've gone this far as I've never hiked or camped like this in my life. It's almost over. I can do it!!! While Indian Bar is amazing and lives up to its reputation, I think Mystic Lake give it a run for its money. Indian Bar doesn't disappoint, like folks suggest, but I think it's better to let life surprise you.
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Day Eight:
September 23rd, 2009
99 Down, 0 To Go
Finished!!! I left Indian Bar a little before 8am and caught glimpses of the Tatoosh Range within an hour. I began to ponder just how far away from home I really am. More to the point, I wondered if I could make it to Paradise tonight instead of spending the night at Maple Creek, the last site on my itinerary. I told myself if I could make it to the Ollalie Trailhead by 11am, Nickel Creek Campsite by noon, Box Canyon by 1pm, and Maple Creek by 2pm, that would give me five and a half hours of daylight to finish the final nine miles. Well, I got to Ollalie at around 10:30am, Nickel Creek at 11:15am, and Box Canyon at 11:45am. I had my lunch at the Canyon and reorganized some of my gear for lighter and easier travel. At 11:55am, a bus rolled in from Seattle and my friends Cathy and Charina were on it. Again, I was happy to see familiar faces and we talked about the events of the past week. I'd told them I was contemplating finishing my trek a day early. To which, they asked what time they should expect me. I replied I expected to be there at around 8:30 or 9pm at the latest, assuming the worst case scenario of going one mile per hour due to extreme fatigue of hiking an extra nine miles. To which, they replied "Okay, see you tonight." They left on the bus at around 12:05pm. At this point, coming home tonight was almost an obligation, but I missed seeing everyone so I didn't mind so much. I started hiking soon after the bus took off. I arrived at Maple Creek at 1:15pm. With nearly an extra hour of daylight, I was all the more anxious. The Steven's Canyon leg of the Wonderland wasn't hard so much as it felt extremely long, and the fatigue didn't help alleviate conditions. I found myself singing Flogging Molly near Lake Louise to help pass time. Part of me wishes I'd stayed at Maple Creek as my fatigue prevented me from enjoying the Canyon as much as I'd wanted. I still enjoyed the Fall Colors, but some of the majesty and ambiance was robbed. I reached the familiar sights of Reflection Lakes and Narada Falls, the latter of which was the official start of the Wonderland. I had completed the loop. Words cannot express the joy that was shooting through my body. I walked to the edge of the lookout and thanked God for the trip, for the lessons I'd learned, and for the overall experience. It was 5:30pm and I had less than two miles to go. The final leg was long, ending at 6:15pm at the Paradise Inn. I went into the EDR and surprised everyone. It was great seeing everyone again. I had dinner and told stories of my trip. The one of the bear was a popular one. In nature, there are no conquerors, only survivors. I definitely felt stronger and wiser from the experience. I'd landed on the moon and returned to tell the tale. Currently looking for the next moon to land on. The next opportunity to become wiser and grow as a human being. Whatever may come, I hope to challenge it with my head held high, leaving only boot prints and a brighter disposition.
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