First two days!

I'm writing from hikertown (http://www.hikertown.com), where we are waiting out the heat of the day (currently 95 and hella sunny). It's been an amazing two days so far!!

Minna dropped Justin and me off at PCT mile 456, where we started our journey. No water for the first 6 miles and we got (very minorly) lost twice. Solid start. We were thrilled to get to San Francisquito Canyon road and find that the rumors of a water cache were true! Under a tree were about 40 gallons of water, stored by the incredible Anderson's, a local trail angel family. We were luxuriating in this newfound water when out first friend walked up! Then, as we were preparing to leave, another two people walked up too. Phew. We're not going to be all alone out here.

We made it to "the oasis" that night, another Anderson-supplied cache. They not only had stashed water for hikers, but also a cooler full of soda and beer, camp chairs, and clown paintings hanging from the trees! Incredible spot to end our first night.

We hiked all the way to the Anderson's house the next day, where we spent the night eating delicious taco salad and meeting fellow hikers. The Anderson's call the house "hippie daycare" and everyone has to wear a Hawaiian shirt (they have a rack with 100+ options). They have been hosting pct hikers for 15 years, and expect to see some 800 people pass through their home this year. Absolutely incredible.

Most hikers have been out here for a month already so are very confused where Justin and I came from, and why we are so clean. And then they've all been extremely welcoming. Fellow hikers have taught us a ton already, including the finer points of blister care (leuko tape!) and hitch hiking (take off your sunglasses and smile huge).

Today's section of the hike was closed due to fire damage, but we got a ride part way with the Anderson's, and then another part with a lovely local couple who are reading "Wild" and wanted to ask us a bunch of questions! It was really fun. Dre - the girl was from calabasas!

Next up: Mojave desert! 4 days walking until our next stop.