Our friend, John Rachuy, one of Stephan’s Assistant Scout Masters with BSA Troop 400, suggested that since his new trail name is Mission, then that makes those of us tending the home fires Mission Control. I like the sound of that. And there is plenty to keep us busy at Mission Control. Granny Hat took a little excursion down to the San Juan Post Office to mail the next re-supply box. She hesitates to give a shout out 
to that Post Office location because it is one of San Juan Bautista’s best kept secrets, always a joy to walk in, never a wait unless its the week before Christmas and the staff there is so helpful and interested in Stephan’s adventures. Hopefully the box will get to Big Bear City in time. 
It includes his next set of topography maps with a wealth of information about the trail, water supply along the way, detours etc. 
And Mission’s dad included his Primary Election Ballot so he can vote while on the trail. Even vagabonds can be responsible citizens.
Mission conquered Mt. San Jacinto Peak today and sent us these amazing photographs.
Mission Control added a PCT progress map today. For those of us who drive back and forth from Central California to Southern California many times a year, it seems like he is taking forever to get out of there. But the mountains are steep and the PCT is narrow with no short cuts. Granny Hat thinks this is a pretty big accomplishment for 1 week.
“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings.” John Muir
Granny Hat 
Gary still talks about the difficulty of the stretch Stephan is now walking. I am impressed with his tenacity. I love the coined title of Mission Control! 🤗
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Yes, Stephan said some of the days this past week were the hardest he has ever hiked!
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