About the Author, Yvette Beetley “Mtn Minnie”: I am a 45-year-old, single woman who loves the outdoors, gardening, my dogs, photography and wine! I have lived in New Mexico for a majority of my life and recently discovered that I need to adventure more around my own state! I have one son (25 yrs old) and two dogs – a Pomeranian (8 years old) and a Chocolate Lab Mix (4 months old).

To see more from Yvette, click her name above!

I woke up with a horrible cramp in my leg where the mosquitos made lunch of me and I’m hobbling around. I’ve used some Icy Hot and have been trying to work it out with my small tennis ball and a Benadryl chaser. I really hope this is not the end. I will be so sad and disappointed!! We’re gonna get moving and dry our tents and see how it goes. Stay tuned!
Made the tough decision to stay another night. Right now I am so disappointed in myself…my feet and legs are failing me and I’m sitting here thinking of all the hours and miles of training that right at this moment do not feel like I’ve done either- the tears well up and I want to cry. My son tells me ….”it’s ok mom! Remember you told me the trail will always be there! We can always come back. I love you Mom.” A mother always needs her Kid!
Rookie mistake of not sitting still yesterday and losing a day is costing us a day today. I’ve drained my blister and wiped my tears. This has been tough!
PS: always carry a small tennis ball! It helps to work out kinks!
6:29pm here I stand looking at the view from the bike ranch telling myself….This Trail will not beat you because you are strong! You’ve been through and succeeded through things bigger than this!! You got this! All things happen for a reason!! Then…I hear my son’s laughter from the distance- he and Jeffrey are back  – my pep talk is over. Kicking trail ass tomorrow!