October 18
2106 – 2118
Ramona Falls in the morning: just spectacular. The forest is getting that deep mossy feel. On the advice of one single Guthooks comment, I took the long-ish detour on the Timberline Trail. It was like a magical rain forest. I was a little worried that I might be heading for a long in-and-back hike. But it turned out to be a fantastic morning full of mushrooms and moss and waterfalls and streams. A Dr. Seuss world of funny cute mushrooms.
So many hikers on the trail with me. I guess they’re all from Portland. This many people on a Thursday, what are these trails like on the actual weekend? Lots of nice dogs out.
I camped on the Bull Run side of the trail, in Portland’s watershed. My apologies to the other hiker at that space. It was a little steep to find another flat spot that late. I’m just as uncomfortable hearing the squinch of your inflatable mat, knowing you can hear mine. So personal.
Spinstera 
Watch out for the pink/reddish mushrooms. Could be an amanita – very poisonous. Do not touch. I am not an expert but do know about them. Oregon is such a beautiful state. It made me fall in love with the Northwest in the early 70’s when I lived on Mt. Hood and the reason I am here now. Enjoy the beauty.
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Hi Gretchen. You are making such progress! I am with your mother and Joy and her sister in Barcelona. I have instructed her not to give me the latest update so that I can enjoy your posts. Thinking about you every day and what a monumental trip you are taking!
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