Solo for the last time. It’s been over 6 months since I’d written those words, and even more since I’ve been on the Appalachian Trail. My plan of retiring from work and resetting my life by walking in the woods for six months, fell short by 1750 miles. Not exactly a success by most standards. … Continue reading Solo for the last time Part 2
Author: paonthetrail
Solo for the last time Part 1
First I'd like to apologize for the length of time between posts. I have experienced some technical difficulties with photo placement and other issues because of my inexperience with the software. This post took place last October 19th thru the 25th from Erwin Tennessee to Hot Springs North Carolina. My journey on the Appalachian Trail … Continue reading Solo for the last time Part 1
A full day of experiences, interactions and decisions
I usually awaken each morning in darkness but remain in my sleeping bag until I sense first light. I could tell the temperatures had dropped significantly overnight. I stayed inside my warm bag for another hour. It was 9:00 o'clock before I had eaten breakfast and packed up. Not a great start but today though … Continue reading A full day of experiences, interactions and decisions
Hallelujah, On the Trail again…
I have faced several setbacks on my Appalachian Trail adventure. Nevertheless I haven't been deterred in the least bit. In fact amazing things have taken place in my life despite the disappointments. My eyes and mind have remained on why I started in the first place. All my goals are still in front of me … Continue reading Hallelujah, On the Trail again…
Smoky Mountain Retreat
Hopefully I'll be on trail soon. This stopping and starting is not what I had planned. I'll admit it has shaken my confidence a little. But I've got two things in my favor. One is, I don't give up easy. My old basketball Coach used to say "Winners never quit and quitters never win". I'm … Continue reading Smoky Mountain Retreat
How do I think this hike will be different?
I was having lunch with a friend and hiker the other day. A question was proposed as to what I think might be different this time around? Immediately I thought of what gear changes were planned, trail conditions, diet, and weather. All the physical things. I could tell by her expression that I hadn't understood … Continue reading How do I think this hike will be different?
It’s time to go hiking again!
I have to be honest. This has been a great summer. The disappointment of leaving the trail was put to rest rather quickly. Thanks to the encouragement I received from all my friends. I also think my focus on mindfulness helped. I left the negative thoughts behind and focused on the experience of living on … Continue reading It’s time to go hiking again!
Highlights and health report
My foot is healing and if I have no further issue I plan to be on the trail early September. Due to the season winding down and no chance to make Maine this year, a new option is shaping up going forward. I will star where my daughters dropped me off last April. Heading southbound … Continue reading Highlights and health report
Why am I off the Trail and What’s the Plan Now?
Virginia is rocky at times That's where I started that morning I guess a better question is could I have continued? I probably could have but for how long? Other things besides my feet were also flowing through my thoughts. I had lost 30 lbs. I didn't feel bad but others had noticed and had … Continue reading Why am I off the Trail and What’s the Plan Now?
50 miles to Harpers ferry
The decision had been made to return home, recover and take care of some scheduled dental work as well as process what I had experienced. That will be in my next post. Harpers Ferry lay ahead and I was excited to reach this historic town. It also is home to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. I … Continue reading 50 miles to Harpers ferry
Pa on the Trail 