The trail life is a steep learning curve. Seems that my mornings always contain some delay whether that is an equipment issue or simply me forgetting something. Today leaving Angels rest after a nice breakfast in Pearisburg I felt rushed to get on the shuttle and left my trekking poles at the hostel. No Collar … Continue reading Day 4-7 First Sunset/First Fall
It's late but I won't be able to post again until Easter weekend. First of all thanks for your interest and support. Many times each day I use that as motivation to keep moving north. I'm not sure what form these posts will take. I'm still learning how to navigate the days I get to … Continue reading Day 1-3 Pearisburg
This is a list of what gear I'll be taking to start my hike. I didn't list the brand in most cases. If your curious email me and I will share. Shoes are an exception as they are probably the most important piece. 5 million steps ain't no joke. It is also a good example of … Continue reading What am I taking
It's been almost 3 weeks since I retired. It is less than 2 weeks until I take the first step on the Appalachian Trail. It was and is quite a mix of emotions. The last 3 weeks felt like 3 months. Thanks to all my work friends for the support and encouragement not just for this … Continue reading Last preparations
My grandson Jack had an idea for a podcast and I wanted to assist him and provide encouragement. (The link is found below.) It sounded like a good way to answer the many questions people have asked of me. I suggested I could be his first guest. So we went into the studio and recorded … Continue reading Jack ponders life finally online
I've had some pretty serious blogs about the journey to this point. This time I'd like to have some fun! Often the quiet peace of nature is what I seek. Other times conversation with others can fill the lonely hours in a vast wilderness. And yes there will be plenty of time to mix in some music to restore … Continue reading Music on the Trail
I hesitate to call this journey a pilgrimage. There is the adventure and challenge aspect, along with hopes and expectations of friendship and trail community. Yet most assuredly there is a spiritual significance to this hike. When I first started planning, my hopes were to duplicate what what I'd experienced on shorter ventures into the … Continue reading #1 Reason / A Pilgrimage
