Town update. After this last town, we're really starting to realize how important these town friendships are. When all this is said and done, when we're back at home having trail withdrawals, sitting in the couch, not doing the things we dreamed we would do when we got back, who else will understand but these people? No one else even understands the notion to come out here but these awesome people. I want to leave this experience knowing that I have friends to contact when I'm all over the world. That I can just call them up and they will be the free-spirited, anything-is-possible kind of people that we've all become out here. There is a kinship, there is a bond in every acquaintance out here. This becomes more and more true as the trip carries on and people drop out. Injuries, homesickness, wanting to do other things, money, jobs. The people that stick around become that much more meaningful to our town experiences and our lives. It was hot today and we ended up spending most of the day in front of Amarratti's Market in Castella. A lot of people came through today. One of the guys was talking about how he missed other hikers when he was out on the trail alone. It's true and when we get back we'll feel it even more. We'll miss real interaction, real conversation. Openness and excitement for life. Anything is possible. And the people who feel the same. It didn't cool off until late today. Maybe 7pm. It was so tempting to go back into town, but we finally got a ride out with Tom. He had driven up to the gas station and smiled politely, a grin with two missing front teeth, mismatched clothes, worn down shoes, and an old truck. When we asked if he was heading North and if he'd be able to drive us to the trail at the next exit, he didn't even hesitate. Of course he'll take us, but so sorry for the layer of dirt in the back. He wa from Modesto, headed for the Tri-Cities in Washington. When we got out and said our thank yous, he was thee first person we felt expected no tip, no monetary settlement. He asked if he could pray for us and we listened intently as he said a lovely prayer for our journey and we wished him all the best on his. The best meetings come in unexpected packages, no? The world is an awesome place. We're back on trail, perched half a mile up the mountain and can hear the freeway noise. Tomorrow, we'll be in the quiet of nature, but tonight I'm enjoying the simple sound of people, making their way back and forth. Exactly 100 miles to Etna, then Seiad Valley (home of the pancake challenge), and then Ashland, Oregon!!! Looking at the map of waypoints, it's getting exciting. We're getting somewhere now.