Day 11, 2022 - Etna and a Zero Day for the Bird

June 10, 2022

Etna, CA (credit Peggy)

We both had a better night’s sleep than we’ve had for a while. Me, for not worrying about what’s going on out there in the forest at night. For Runningbird, not worrying about being a meal in Saran Wrap for whatever lurks in the night. Or having her and her tent blowing away in a storm (think Wizard of Oz), or waking up being covered in snow. All of that and knowing there was no urgency to do anything in any great hurry today. It’s a Zero Day. And maybe the first of a few.

After taking Beau for a potty walk I made first coffees and we went into town for second coffees. We went to the bakery and bought another loaf of bread (olive) and Peggy decided I needed a cookie, a scone, and a croissant because I‘ve been burning so many calories. Ha! Actually she said it was because I’m on vacation. Anyway they were good. We met another hiker who skipped out off the trail some miles back to they didn’t have to hike the section Runningbird went through the last couple of days. I spoke to another couple yesterday that skipped ahead as well. With our coffees from the cafe we enjoyed a sit at the sidewalk table and Peggy found a book at the little free library. She did go into the Dollar General yesterday and asked the young clerk if they had any paperback books. He looked at her like he had no idea what a “paperback” book was. Maybe online learning has completely taken over here. We bought a few things at the “Guys Food Place - Employee owned” including a bag of ice. Back at the trailer the Bird emptied the ice into a bucket, added water, and shoved her feet in.

In the afternoon, probably after my nap, we’ll go back downtown and visit the “Outfitters” shop and the brewery. At the moment the plan is for another Zero day. Or two. There is another storm set to come through this weekend and I do have an obligation back home next week so we’ll piece that plan together over the next couple of days. Oh, and another thing - everyone here in this little town seems so happy and friendly. I asked a woman watering the flowers in front of her second hand store why everyone here seems so friendly. Her response - ”because we aren’t all so stressed out like you city folks”! Well, Thank you very much.

Etna Wall Art, Etna, CA (credit Peggy)

We stopped at the Etna Brewery and picked up a few beers. They had a great variety and the smoker was going outside. Looked like a good place to eat if you’re into meat. From there Runningbird went up to the Etna Outfitters and got some gloves to protect her hands from further sun damage. The owner of the shop was from Oregon, moved to Etna some years ago and loves it. It really is a cute town and they also have a small town movie theatre. Saturday they are showing ”The Princess Bride”.

Runningbird is feeling much better and will be comfortable getting back on the trail after another couple of Zero days. It is supposed to rain on Sunday so we’ll hang here a couple more days.