February 20, 2018
This was one of the hardest choices I’ve made in a while! I have loved my ridgerunning job, fulfilling 7 seasons in two different sections of Virginia. I remember one day on the job halting suddenly in a grove of red spruce on the slope of Bluff Mountain saying, “I’ve done it! I’m earning my living hiking!” At the end of that season, I climbed up to a favorite outcrop on Spy Rock, set up my camera with a ten-second timer and raised my arms in celebration of my season. A few weeks ago, a friend wrote asking if she could use that photo as a model for her vision of freely walking in mountains following her knee surgery. What a perfect testimony to the power of that moment for me having walked into my vision! Yes! Ridgerunning has been a fulfilling summer job!
And now, I’ll go back for another season, right? That would make sense, wouldn’t it?
Well, I actually chose differently! This year, some other opportunities are bubbling to the top – taking care of my grandson for two weeks, spending time with grandson number two, visiting my mom in Ohio, offering ForgivenessWalks programs and coaching, and……….walking a chunk of the Pacific Crest Trail! After all, one of the big reasons for choosing the winter seasonal job I have at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is that I would have my summers free for hiking!
So, John and I are juggling all of these things to come up with a summer itinerary that balances trips across the US in a reasonable flow.
It was sad to say no to Ridgerunning for this year! Wish me well in my other choices!
In joy,
Regina
I wish you well, Gina. I remember you saying “I am paid for hiking” when it wasn’t yet a reality. How wonderful that you created this for yourself.
I confess I’m a bit sad that I won’t be wondering where you are on the AT at any given moment…and a bit selfishly happy that we might be able to connect again when you are in Ohio with your mom. Whatever you are doing, I look forward to hearing how your story unfolds!