13 years ago today, I started the adventure of a lifetime

My PCT journey didn’t begin at the southern terminus in Campo. It began on a rock in Malta, looking out over the Mediterranean, desperate for change.

I had walked away from everything I knew. My partner, my career in events, and the apartment I was renting in London months before. I was unhappy with the direction my life had taken and knew I needed something major to turn things around.

What I learned living outdoors for six months changed the way I live today. When you can survive on everything you can carry in a backpack, you realise there isn’t much you really need in life, and that all those extra things create so much physical and mental clutter.

I became connected to the rhythms of nature, the cycles of the moon, the changing of the seasons, and felt as much a part of the wilderness as the creatures who roam it. The only time I ever felt fear was when I got close to civilisation, or when I saw somebody on the trail who didn’t look like a thru-hiker.

Yes, I may have been terrified when a cougar stalked me for 2.5 hours, but not in the same way I feel fear when I walk home from a bar in the middle of a city at night.

13 years on from the trail, I still yearn to be hiking those miles every day. Not for the walking, but for the feeling of purpose, discovery, community, and the healing power of nature.

You don’t need to spend six months in the wilderness to learn these things. Even one night under the stars can have a transformative effect.

I’m excited to be at a point in my life where I can share the lessons I learned with other women who feel stuck and are searching for change in their lives. It’s so easy to make excuses and put things off, but like my decision to hike the trail, I’m forever grateful I took that leap of faith.

If you want to learn more about my new offerings, check out my website: https://www.rozannepilbeam.com/ and be sure to sign up to my newsletter for more real-time updates.

Happy Trails,

Muk Muk 💕

8 thoughts on “13 years ago today, I started the adventure of a lifetime”

  1. As a SingingTreasure Hunting Adventurer, always wondering what’s around the next curve…I happily stumbled upon Muk Muk/Rozanne’s PCT chronicles early in her journey.

    Having followed every word, every step ever since! Feeling inspired by things big or small. Hard or easy. All part of our own “walk”..

    I even just completed her 7 Day Challenge! Here are a few of my thoughts on Day #7…

    Days #7 Report =

    So much could be said at this point. From “Thank you” to “what’s next?”.

    But I will leave it short and sweet… “I get it”

    It is, and always has been, up to me. How I spend my time, my money, my energy, my heart… is MY choice.

    I can honor those around me and their wishes, while still prioritizing my own hopes and dreams. Without feeling guilty.

    The calendar said it was time to hike. The weather man said it was time for rain. The husband had a bad foot. The son had laundry going… Still, I asked “who’s coming along”?

    A few hours and a few miles later… we all returned home wet, hungry and laughing!

    The perfect day. Thanks to to the encouragement from my Mentor/Muse/SuperHero/Friend Rosanne !

    I know tomorrow is up to ME. I have the power, even the obligation, to focus my attention towards my own hopes. My own plans. My own dreams.

    The Choice Is Up To Me 🎶 Bring it on !!!

    As always, Joy to you on this precious day! L

    Happy Anniversary dear friend 🥰

    From Washington State Where Lyndella Sings🎶

    1. Dearest Lyndella, what a beautiful note to wake up to this morning, full of wisdom and inspiration! I love your story about the 7-day challenge, that brings a huge smile to my face! ☺️ Thank you for being one of my greatest supporters over these many years. I can’t believe it’s been 13 years since my adventures on the PCT. Thank you for being there through all the ups and downs since! I’m truly grateful! 🌸

  2. Wow! So hard to believe it’s been 13 years. It’s been a fun ride following your adventures–before, during and after the PCT. Joan and I always look forward to your posts. Love from us both.

    Joan and Dave

    1. Thanks Joan and Dave! I’m so grateful for your encouragement and support throughout this journey. It’s been such a beautiful way to get to know you both! Sending my love and hopes to see you soon! 🥰

  3. I saw your post just now and I realized how much I look forward to those from you. It’s a connection based on the PCT, of course, and yet there is more to that. At my age I value the connections I have, whether they be in person or across the “wire”. Hope you can make it down to work on the project south of Snoqualmie Pass this August!

    Jack

    1. Hey Jack! It’s so lovely to hear from you! It’s incredible how many unique connections I made through my PCT journey, both in-person and online. The community that was created through my blog is one of the most precious parts of that experience, and it brings me so much joy to see how these connections have continued. Thank you for all of your support over the years! My intention is to be there in August! I’m really looking forward to it! ☺️

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