StinkyKD

to help guide me . . . .

2008-10-24T10:13:00.007-05:00

Here is a close up of Rhett filling in the color and the finished product. I had been thinking about another tat for years but never had something that meant that much. Accomplishing the AT (with everything that I went through) justified it. If you remember the very begining of this blog - the moto for the journey came from an Eddie Vedder song lyric, "gonna rise up, find my direction - magnetically" (and a close friend had that engraved on the back of my ipod). The compass is high up on my back - to look over my shoulder and always make sure my life is going in the correct direction. I chose to only call out the N - as a reminder that I was a NOBO on the AT (actually never slackpacked - so went North 100% of the time - which was important to me). The daisy in the middle - reminds me that I should always center myself with nature and the environment. Orange and Navy Blue are two of my favorite colors (and yellow just looks good with orange). The daisy is white - but still had some blood seeping through so it looks a little pink - that will change with time. I LOVE it!

getting new ink done!!!!

2008-10-24T10:04:00.003-05:00

Here is Rhett (from The Illustrated Man) outlining the new tat. He had sketched it up for me that morning - and let me make several small changes - but overall I loved what he had come up with. He had heard my story and knew how important the meaning was. He has also done quite a bit of hiking and snowboarding when he lived in Colorado so he was able to relate - and loved what I was doing.

cleaned up with professional help

2008-10-23T08:12:00.004-05:00

Well - been back for 3 weeks. Still don't have a job - but ok with that. Friends have helped out by letting me stay on the couch. I have a second interview with a local gear shop - hope to know more next week - it is really where I want to be. I remember how Katie (the girl from another outfitter) helped excite me and talked me into hiking (as well as helping me with my pack selection and starting the ball rolling). I want to do that for someone else. I want to change their life, like Katie changed mine. I have also found an apartment that is only 1 mile from the retail store. I will be able to ride my bike to work and to the grocery store - which is very important to me. Our environment should be the #1 concern of our next President. Each of us can do our part - but we need a strong leader to make massive, and quick changes. Feeling pretty good with my life right now, had to get a new cell phone (found out that 6 months in the woods is hard on them.) Bought a laptop - so with those 2 things I am highly mobile, which I love. If I can get a small (under 700 sq ft) appt and ride a bike to work - I will be in a very happy place. Simplify, Simplify, Simplify. Hope to purge a lot of stuff when I move - be checking Craigs list! I set up a Facebook account to keep in touch with everyone - and the best part about having a professional photographer as an ex wife - is being able to get a great head shot for free! Thanks Amy (well, actually David - he gets photo credit - he created this image a couple of days ago). Quite a bit better than my handheld shot up against the bricks, standing outside of a Panera (borrowing Internet). I am leaving in a bit to go get my tattoo! I'll have pictures uploaded of it soon. Probably will post pictures of my apartment as well - will be the first time I have ever lived in one (always had a house, and lived in the dorms at college). After that, don't know - everyone might just have to wait till Hoot or Freebird call me and talk me into hiking the PCT! Peace.

I'm not crying . . .dammit - and if I was . . . lots of men do

2008-10-22T18:51:00.007-05:00

well - here it is - me summiting at K! So thankful that Sundance was there to capture it on film. Good news - its tough to see my crying as I walk up - and you can't see me when I put my head on the sign - so if you can't see it - then I wasn't crying! : ) granted - Hoot named the CD "Blazecry". Thanks Hoot. Listen closely and you can hear me say "can I just touch it" which is an easy "thats what she said!" I also let you know how I feel about ticks. That moment - it was so amazing and life changing - and everyone cheering me on - well - it just hits you pretty hard. I remember it like it was yesterday. Over the last few days - I have gone through my entire blog, from the beginning at Springer, probably 3 or 4 times. Hard not to keep looking at it. Some days I am amazed that I made it. Some days its sureal, like I wasn't even gone for 6 months. And yes - I want to do the PCT in a couple of years - so keep me in mind. Enjoy the closure. Its weird to think that the SOBOs are still out there - some are tyring to finish by Thanksgiving, others by Christmas. Godspeed to them all.

I believe the expression is . . . shaved

2008-10-15T15:26:00.003-05:00

Well - here you go - a picture of me all smooth. I'm not going to lie - I was pretty skittish for the first couple of days that I was back. Driving on the highway was a bit much. I freaked out on the second day - I was still wearing the same clothes that I hiked in, and still had the facial hair, but I was no longer Blaze. I got up early the next morning and shaved which made me feel a lot better. I know that I am no longer Kevin, but I am no longer Blaze either. Have to find out where on the spectrum I am. Because of that - I am not making any major life decisions till Feb or March of 2009. I let my Leave of Absence run out - so I am no longer at my previous company. Maybe again someday, but the fluorescent lights and cubicles were freaking me out when I went down to save my hard drive and see friends. That's a tough transition from the trail. They are having a "welcome home, see ya" happy hour for me tomorrow night. For not having a job - I have been really busy! Figuring out bills / insurance, spending time with friends and family, and getting my truck running again - its filling my days. Miss the quiet solitude that the timber provided. Miss the trail a lot. Already. I've looked at my blog several times. If Hoot mails me the video of my summit - I might add it. Need to watch it again and then decide. Have been in email contact with a lot of hikers - seems like everyone is in the same place. Not sure what to do - and already missing aspects of the hike. Had a job interview today for some seasonal work, and am trying to get on with a local gear shop - I need to be close to the people and the gear for awhile. I'm passionate about it - so should make my soul happy - which is my only objective right now. Happy and a little bit of cash - as the medical bills are daunting - even with insurance. Just going to bounce around with friends till spring. Then, who knows, maybe still in KC, maybe Portland, maybe Austin, and researching several cities in Colorado. Note - AT Thru hikers in those areas - email me and I will come out to see you / sleep on the couch / work for stay. : ) Oh - and I met with a premier tattoo artist this week - shared my journey with him, and came up with an idea for a new tat. He should have sketches done next week - and of course I will put the pictures on my blog. If you want me to post pictures of me sleeping on friends couches or floors - just let me know. : )

Go get some sun on your face. Peace

I'm back!!!!!

2008-10-02T14:31:00.003-05:00

Summited on the 30th and Brahma and Sweet P had rented a minivan to drive back down to Virginia. They were dropping Hoot and Sundance off in NY and offered to drop me off in Boston - so we made a little road trip of it. Didn't want to pay for a room - so just went to the airport and slept on the floor. Pretty nice to carry your bed with you everywhere you go. Since my ticket was for the next day (the 2nd) I couldn't go in - so I just laid down right by the front door. Didn't get much sleep - they kept buffing the floors and people walked by all night. Got up at 4:00am to switch my flight to an earlier one - and, well, here I am. I am Kansas City right now!!! Getting ready to go sit outside and decompress for a bit. WAY to much to jump back into when you have been in the woods for 6 months. Hope to add a few more images and the clip of my finish - so you can make fun of me for crying. Peace to all - and thank you so much for following my journey - I couldn't have done it without the support of friends, family, and everyone that I met on the trail. Your first question, I'm guessing, is would you do it again? I'm glad I did it, and it has changed me, a lot - but no - once is enough. If I had the time and money I would go hike the Pacific Crest Trail (Mexico to Canada via California, Oregon and Washington). But honestly would like to just do some short weekend hikes or hell - even car camping! Now what? Not sure. No money, no job, no house. Anyone interested? Clearly have shown commitment, desire, persistence, strength and the ability to deal with logistics of a large project. Email me. I could also be a cabana/pool boy for a Cougar - this is the one time in my life I think I can pull off the tight, white shorts! I need to get away from this for a bit - like I said - I'll add some more - but kinda freaking me out to still in the library when it is sunny outside. Feel free to email me with any questions about the hike - or take me out for a drink and I'll talk your ears off. Plan to shave the poor attempt at facial hair in a day or two - and might upload a new picture. I don't even remember what I look like! Go get some sun on your face.

just burn the damn things

2008-10-02T14:29:00.001-05:00

well - it took 6 pairs of socks and 4 pairs of trail runners to hike the 2,176.2. I retired these into the trash and slipped my crocs on for the journey "home".

the "after"

2008-10-02T14:27:00.002-05:00

I really don't want to re-post the "before" picture - you can go back to the old one if you want to see it - but would say that the AT transforms you - mentally, emotionally, and certainly - physically. Can't wait to jump on a scale - betting that I lost another 20 lbs on the trail (after the 40 that I lost in training). Can't let myself get back to that again.

no loitering

2008-10-02T14:24:00.001-05:00

check this out - almost 20 of us - and someone kept coming up every 30 mins or so and we would all scream for them. No one wanted to leave. The kicker is - well - you finish at the top of a mountain - so you still have to hike those same 5.2 miles back down - but this time, with no adrenaline. Probably set up here for an hour or more - just couldn't walk away yet.

good looking summit photo

2008-10-02T14:21:00.002-05:00

what a turn of events - to be able to summit with so many friends. from left to right - Sundance, Hoot, me, Sweet Potato, and Brahma Bull. Weird how the world works. 6 months ago I had never met them, then hiked with them in the Smokies for a few weeks, then got way ahead, then got sick, then saw them in town, then would catch up, then fall behind, then catch them, then fall behind, then finally caught them - and here we are. Gotta love it.

Hiker Trash!

2008-10-02T14:19:00.002-05:00

Had packed up a bag of chips, a chocolate candy bar, and a now luke warm Bud. Tasted so good. Hoot had packed up some party hats for us - can it be any better?

those pesky rocks

2008-10-02T14:18:00.001-05:00

yep - still had the pebbles in my pocket - carried them all the way from Springer down in Georgia. I left one there - hoping a SOBO will take it back down to Springer, and one I kept.

Blaze wins the AT!

2008-10-02T14:13:00.002-05:00

And here is the sign that I had been chasing. Took 184 days to make the summit - but I did it. I was number 366 to sign in at Baxter but know there is a pretty big group still behind. Sundance was able to get my summit as a movie clip and is going to send it to me - which I will add to the blog. It is raw and emotional - I was crying enough that I almost made everyone else cry. It was so great to finish - back in Vermont, in the hospital - I didn't know if this day was going to happen - but it did - and even with taking 24 days off for my sickness - still did it in just 1 day short of 6 months. 4/1/08-9/30/08. Class of '08. I am an AT Thru Hiker!!!!!!!

the final yards

2008-10-02T14:10:00.003-05:00

This was crazy - the summit was socked in - but you can see the outline of hikers and the sign (if you zoom in). I was almost running up these stone stairs by this point. With about 20 yards to go - I could hear everyone yelling "Blaze" and clapping. It really hit me and I lost it. 2,176.2 miles and this was it - here was the end. What a way to finish!

so finish already

2008-10-02T14:07:00.002-05:00

Here I am at the spring - only 1 mile left. Clearly I teared up again - it was real at this point. I could hear hikers yelling and screaming as they hit the summit and was ready to finish this thing. The last mile is actually kind of graded - and has some nice stone steps - so it was easy on us from this point.

2 mile rock scramble

2008-10-02T14:05:00.002-05:00

the next 2 miles get a little harder - here we are going up the rocky ridge line, as soon as we cleared that false summit - the trail became a huge rock scramble - mostly hand over hand - more climbing than hiking. It was so much fun - as I was running on pure sugar (danish, pop tarts, carnation instant breakfast) and adrenaline!

between the clouds

2008-10-02T14:01:00.002-05:00

don't get me wrong - I was doing big days to catch up to my friends, however - was also trying to dodge the hurricanes for summit day. We had heard that we had one good day - the 30th, and then another storm was coming in, that would bring 4-5 more days of rain. From down at the base - everything looked socked in. The first 2 miles are nice and easy - just warming your legs up. As we started to climb higher - we got above the clouds - but still more clouds above at the summit. Pretty cool picture to be both above and below cloud line.

only 5.2 miles to go!

2008-10-02T13:58:00.003-05:00

Yep - only 5.2 miles to go, and up to 5,267'. Check out the sign in register - Blaze on 9/30 will become an AT Thru Hiker!

This is the end

2008-10-02T13:20:00.002-05:00

Made it into camp around 9:00 and the Ranger took me to the Birches. Reserved for NOBO Thru hikers only - and only 5 miles from the summit! Ate and went to bed as quickly as possible - some of the hikers were getting up at 2:30am to try and catch the sunrise - no thanks. I got up at 6:00. Couldn't sleep well anyway - kind of like Christmas Eve at this point. Was doing ok with everything till I rolled and put my tent away that morning (the 30th). It finally hit me - this was it - in 3-4 hours I would be at the top and it would be over. I just sat down and cried a bit - sure you can see that my eyes are puffy in the picture. Hard to see it end.

work it, work it - now show me, pissy!

2008-10-02T13:16:00.002-05:00

Good news, bad news. The good news is that I had a note left for me at the Abol Bridge camp store. I had caught up to Brahma, Sweet P, Hoot and Sundance! I was 2.5 days behind - but was able to close the gap - and they went in town for a day due to weather. I would be able to summit with them! Bad news - it meant that at 4:00, with 14.5 miles already hiked, I had to hike another 10 to be able to summit on the 30th. Sun sets at 6:13 at that point - losing 3 mins of daylight a day - but after 4-5 nights of night hiking (with a couple in the rain) - didn't really matter any more. Check it out 14 miles to go!!!

from the bridge

2008-10-02T13:15:00.002-05:00

Standing on Abol Bridge - best view of K we have had - though the summit is socked in - much better angle to see the ascent (now on your left) - over 4,000' of elevation gain in 4 miles!

Fall is so on!

2008-10-02T13:10:00.002-05:00

if there was ever a reason to have a spinal tap and lay around for 24 days - it is to hike Maine in the fall (glad it slowed me down - though would have rather had another reason!) Amazing contrast as the maples change to red, yellow and orange - set off against the green of the pines. With all those pines - the water we drink everyday is yellow - from all the tannins that seep into the soil and to the springs.

Moose Deuce

2008-10-02T13:05:00.002-05:00

I have to admit - hitting the 2,000 mile mark - with it spray painted on the street was pretty amazing. However - check out the 2,100 mile marker made out of moose poop. I have no idea how so many hikers got giardia! I didn't even get to see a moose in Maine - I think almost everyone else did - but I did a ton of poo!

There she is!

2008-10-02T13:02:00.001-05:00

Here was the first view of K - still a couple days out from her at this point. We actually would end up walking around her which you will see in one of the next pictures - but we climb up the right side.

oh yeah!

2008-10-02T12:59:00.002-05:00

speaking of the hurricanes - after hiking in solid rain for 2-3 days- you get pretty tired of this entire trip. Wake up wet, hike wet, chafe, set up your tent in the rain - thus getting wet, slide your soaked clothes off to get into your dry camp clothes - only to get up and do it again. Putting on cold, wet socks and underwear in the morning when you can see your breath in your tent - you can only imagine what that feels like. Made me not want to get out of my bag and start hiking. When you see a message like this on the trail - makes being wet a little bit better.

river fording

2008-10-02T12:53:00.003-05:00

13 of the 14 states that the AT travels through - they have these wood or sometimes wood and metal structures that we can walk across the rivers on. I think they are called bridges?!? Not in Maine - they pride themselves on making it harder on us. Of the 9 fords that I had to do - this was the deepest by far - check me out - knee deep and I stopped to take a picture. Hum - is the water cold, in Maine, at dusk, in the fall - YES. Water levels weren't bad - the SOBO's that had the 20 days of rain (when I was in the hospital) would have had it pretty rough. I did have one that I had to take an optional high water trail - it was raging and would have needed a kayak - those pesky hurricanes kept dumping water on us! I found it easier to just take the pants off (vs unzipping the legs), throw on the crocs and you are ready to go.

the "dreaded" 100 mile wilderness

2008-10-02T12:48:00.002-05:00

Check out the top of my pack - can't even barely get it to shut with 7 days of food and all my winter gear - crushing my hips. Entering the 100 mile Wilderness and you can see that we are not to enter without 10 days of food - minimum! I carried 7, and ended up doing it in 5.5 days (granted that was with all the 20+'s to catch up to Brahma, Sweet P, Hoot and Sundance). Oh - there are roads all through the "wilderness" and people were slackpacking it - so it isn't very "wild".

Getting close

2008-09-24T08:51:00.002-05:00

Well - this is the final leg. Made my way into Monson - last town on the trail - and picked up a hip crushing 7 days worth of food. Stayed at Shaw's hostel with about 12 other hikers. Wanted to catch Brahma, Sweet Potato, Hoot and Sundance - but they are a full 2 days ahead of me. I can't believe that I only have 112 miles left!!!! Getting ready to go into the 100 Mile Wilderness - they warn that you need 10 days of food - but I don't know any NOBO's that need 10 days to go 100 miles. I'm taking 7 so I can zero in the woods if I want to - will likely be at K in 5-6 days. Supposed to have rain for the next 3-4 days which I'm not looking forward to. I WON'T summit in the rain - will sit at the base for as long as it takes to have a nice day. Nights have been getting down to 32-34 degrees but supposed to warm up a bit - hence the rain. Would rather be cold, than wet - or worse - cold and wet. Physically in a good place, knees still hurt a bit. Emotionally - not sure. I am really ready to be done. I have been out here for 178 days, so ready to come "home". Don't have a job and will be terminated on the 7th if I can't find one, as my leave of absence runs out. Don't have a place to live, but friends have offered to let me stay there for a bit. I can live out of my pack for awhile and love doing work for stay! But at the same time, not ready for it to be over. In 6-8 days, it's done. Then what? Hitch to Millinocket, take a bus to Bangor, take a bus to Boston, then back to KC. Need some time to decompress from this current world and the home that I have known for over 6 months. Weird to be ready to be done, yet don't want it to be over. Not sure how to articulate it any better than that. Well - gotta go. Doubt that I will have cell service in the Wilderness - and the next post from me - should be from the top of Katahdin! This has been amazing. Peace and Godspeed on your journey as well.

Stroke, Stroke, Stroke

2008-09-24T08:47:00.003-05:00

He can take 2 hikers over at a time, but there were 15 of us - and I was the last to get there - so I got to go solo. Took him an hour and half to get all 15 of us across. Pretty cool part of the hike.

Never off trail

2008-09-24T08:45:00.001-05:00

They even put a white blaze in the bottom, so we are never off the trail. Keeps us from trying to ford it I guess.

take a number

2008-09-24T08:40:00.002-05:00

Had to get up early to take the ferry across the Kennebec River. This is the most formidable unbridged water crossing on the AT. The dam is upstream and can let out huge amounts of water at any time - raising the level by over 4 feet. In 1985 a hiker drowned so the ATC added a canoe ferry service (free of charge) to get us across. Here waiting in line for the canoe. Saw a lynx or bobcat this morning - and going into town, Caratunk. Stayed at the Northern Outdoor Center. Rafters, hikers, a microbrewery, bunks, they took credit cards, and a 20 person hot tub. What a night! Gotta love town days.

2000 times better than the mile high club!

2008-09-24T08:33:00.002-05:00

I'm not going to lie - this pretty much makes me a stud! Hopefully, after another 176 miles - that status will be moved up to thru hiker. This felt amazing - to know that I have actually hiked 2,000 miles and still going strong - can't wait to touch that sign! It's real now. Only two towns left - which is a little depressing. I LOVE town days. Food that doesn't come in individual foil packets is great.

I know, I know

2008-09-24T08:29:00.002-05:00

You would think that I would get tired taking pictures of me overlooking bodies of water - but I just don't. Here I am enjoying Flagstaff Lake (the one you could see from Avery Peak). The topo has been really nice lately. The great thing about hiking around lakes and ponds - is that for the most part - they are "flat". Nothing is really ever flat - but have just been soft, rolling hills and water is always available for view. Still haven't seen a moose yet - and if I was a moose - this is where I would be hanging out.

Avery at sunset

2008-09-24T08:24:00.003-05:00

I just couldn't let this last 4,000 footer go. Stayed up on top to catch the sunset - night hiking down a mountain may not be the best idea in the world - but it allows for some amazing sunsets.

There she is!

2008-09-24T08:22:00.002-05:00

You will have to zoom in - but the mountain right in the middle - off in the distance - with the flat top - is Katahdin! Seen from Avery Peak - it's about 60 miles away via straight line, but 180 miles away via the AT. They always say that the longest distance between any two points - is the AT.

the last of the 4's

2008-09-24T08:14:00.003-05:00

Everyone had been talking about how hard Saddleback and the Bigelow's were going to be. Guessing that I different perspective since I had already made it through the Whites - I didn't think that they were that tough. Had good weather - which does help. Several big peaks all back to back - Spaulding @ 4,000', South Crocker @4,040', North Crocker @4,228', Bigelow West Peak @ 4,145' and Bigelow Avery Peak @ 4,090'. This is the last 4,000'+ mountain in Maine (except K which is 5,268'). Kinda sad to see them go - there is simply nothing like the views that you get above treeline. This is Avery Peak as seen from West Peak, as well as me at the top.

Ford?

2008-09-24T08:10:00.002-05:00

Out of the 9 or so river fords - I had been lucking out - little rain so most I could cross on boulders or rocks. Here they had placed a board across. Not sure about putting my entire weight on an old 2x8 but made it across safely.

perspective

2008-09-24T08:05:00.002-05:00

here is what I was talking about - totally different perspective when you see it from the shoreline and can splash around in it with your feet.

Maine - everyday

2008-09-24T07:57:00.003-05:00

This is pretty much what Maine looks like, everyday (when it isn't raining of course!). I take back about how hard it is, that was just in the south, and I was upset about all the rain. Now that it is dry - how can you not love this. If you have been following this at all - you know how much I love lakes and ponds. Pretty much at the base of every mountain range - there is a pond or lake. This was looking back from the trail head on ME 4 - opposite of Saddleback Mtn. Several tourists had stopped to take pictures from this vantage point. It actually made me a little upset - because I knew that this was the only perspective they would have - they wouldn't see if from the top of a 4,000 footer, nor would they see it from the shoreline. It really becomes beautiful when you see it from all three perspectives and you earn it. I know I shouldn't feel that way - not everyone wants to earn it, or cares about the 3 different views. Just how I was feeling that day.

Riff Raff

2008-09-24T07:51:00.002-05:00

This is what I love about the trail. Was hiking through the rain when I saw a laminated piece of paper attached to a tree. It gave phone numbers and was called the Riff Raff Friendly. Basically, 4 former thru hikers got together and rented this appartment. They would come shuttle you, and the only donation you had to make - was to buy beer for the fridge. I hitched into Oquossoc and they came and picked me up. About 16 hikers there! Took me back to 17 and I hiked to ME 4. They picked me up again! Stayed the night and then took a zero as I was picking up my winter bag and down vest in Rangeley on Monday. Long nights - but good times had by all. They were so well known - that while I was there - the AT Companion (my guidebook) called them to see if they wanted to be listed! Great group of people. Gotta love this trail.

mudslide anyone?

2008-09-24T07:46:00.002-05:00

After doing my first river ford (Sawyer Brook -only shin deep) I put my hiking shoes back on and started to climb Moody Mtn (2,920'). Midway up - there had been a giant mudslide - from those 3 weeks of rain that I watched from Vermont - and a huge chunk of the mountain slid down, right across the AT. It was dry at this point so not that big of a deal to do the reroute - but would have hated to do this in the rain - just rocks and tree roots to grab on to.

14th and final!

2008-09-10T22:34:00.004-05:00

well - I made it to the last state - which when I was laying in the hospital - didn't know if it would happen. Last day in NH was nice and easy hiking - think they were throwing us a bone after the Whites. Maine - on the other hand . . . . I think I'm going to replace the "the way life should be" with "Welcome to Maine - Seriously?". Because pretty much every climb or descent - I just stare at it and say - seriously? and with a pack? Fell hard the other day - right on the tail bone - that makes the tenth time. The trails here are straight up or down - all on slick, smooth rock, with water running on it. Neat. My water filter quit working - but was able to borrow some drops from Snackies. I called the outfitter and ordered some to Rangeley - but after taking it all apart and cleaning everything - got it working again. Won't hurt to have back up. Topo has taken a toll on mileage. First day was 9 miles. Wanted to get through Mahoosuc Notch (the hardest mile on the trail - all rock scrambles the size of cars - go over, under, and through!). We had to decide if go through in the dark or wait till the next day with 100% chance of thunderstorms. We chose the rain - and as soon as we got to the Notch - it opened up. Fun in the beginning - basically a giant 1 mile adult jungle gym. With everything being soaked and getting dumped on in the rain - got old after a while. (would love to do again without a pack and in the dry!). The Mahoosuc Arm was actually worse 1,600' of gain in a mile and half - after tired from the Notch. Took me from 8:00am to 3:00pm to go 5 miles!!! Soaked - stopped at a shelter at Speck Pond. Ended up getting down into the low 30's - and the decision to not change out to my winter sleeping bag - was a bad one. Had everything that I owned (and that was dry) and not enough. Left a message at home to send 10 degree bag and down vest - only going to get worse. Did a huge 15 miler today to make it to town - Andover. Wasn't planning on coming in - but wanted to dry out and needed more food - hadn't planned on the short days - so not enough to make it to Rangeley (and it is supposed to get below freezing tonight). Staying at a hostel and will hike out some time tomorrow. Might have to zero in Rangeley - depending on when my bag gets in the mail. Not smart to hike without it. Maine is tough so far - but understand it gets easier as we go north - well - until K. Have 9 stream/river fords coming up - should be nice a cold for those. Hope to get some pictures. Mad that I didn't get any in the Notch - too much rain - there was even a Moose that got in there last year - and couldn't get out - bones are piled up next to a boulder with prayer flags above it. (check out www.walkingtomaine.blogspot.com for pictures). Doing well 257 miles left to go. Peace.

um - better get going

2008-09-10T22:29:00.002-05:00

well, well - is it just me - or is it turning to fall up here in the Northeast?!? Actually - making the trail pretty. This was one of my last views getting out of NH. Funny - as we run into SOBO's they say "thank God we made it to New Hampshire". The NOBO's are all saying "thank God we made it to Maine". Um - guessing both states are tough then - as I know I was looking forward to getting out of the Whites and into the last state.

another death

2008-09-05T17:25:00.002-05:00

Third pair is dead after 612 miles and the beating that the Whites gave them. I am in Gorham, NH - with just 297 miles left to go! Going to take a nero, zero to let the knees heal up. Have heard that south Maine is harder than the Whites - lovely. REALLY starting to set in that this journey is almost finished - just one state to go. Freebird left me a message that he finished on the 2nd - I would have been there with him. Love that he is done - he has earned the status of thru hiker - and I hope to be right behind him. Should be 3 - 3.5 weeks to the sign. Have my last pair of shoes ready (bought them in Rutland and broke them in while hanging out with the ol' Lyme disease.) Still seeing people that I know - and meeting new ones every day. The Whites were amazing - and glad my journey didn't end in that hospital bed - they have been by far the best views. The hut system would be a good option for you to see the Whites, while not carrying much food/gear - and still have a warm meal and a bunk every night. You should look into this. I can't believe that I am almost in Maine! Gone by so quickly. Getting scared to end it - to touch it - to have to walk south - to start the next journey. Body and mind are in good shape - trail legs back in order (though the knees are torn up). Not a lot of small towns in Maine - so not sure how much access I will have - hope to update you a couple more times - don't want you to just jump to the picture with me on top of Mt. K. That wouldn't be fair! Might have to wait to add that till I get back . . . . and get the tat . . . . Godspeed.

Washington in the Clouds

2008-09-05T17:22:00.002-05:00

Here is a picture of the top of Washington as it normally is - socked in with clouds. I am midway up Wildcat Mtn. 3 hours to get up to the peak - just a little over 2,000' of elevation - but straight up rock scramble. We are going in a big horseshoe - and back the other direction towards Gorham.

just me and the clouds

2008-09-05T17:18:00.002-05:00

Sitting at the top of Mt. Madison (5,363'). Crazy good view and still good weather. At peace with everything. Hiking down Madison and to Pinkham Notch has been the hardest hike so far. 7 miles, started at 9:00am and finished at 4:00pm. All rock scrambles and losing over 3,000' feet of elevation. Taking a toll on the knees.

better?

2008-09-05T17:14:00.001-05:00

I mean - does it get better than this??? Sunset at Madison Spring Hut. Didn't have the straight view to the horizon that we had at Lakes, but think it made a nicer effect - having it peek through the clouds and over Mt. Adams. Starting to hit me that this is almost over.

air support

2008-09-05T17:11:00.002-05:00

For the huts - some stuff is brought in by helicopter (cans, propane tanks, etc) the rest of the produce is brought up every other day on wooden packs by the croo members. As I was walking down to Madison Spring Hut - a chopper was making a few deliveries and starting to take things out for the end of the season. Way cool.

top o the mountain to ya

2008-09-05T17:05:00.002-05:00

Home of the worst weather on earth! 55% of the time the summit is covered in clouds and 300+ days they have hurricane strength winds. Gusts up to 80 miles an hour today - but I only got hit as I was going down. (I think that deal with Mama Nature and the tick worked out to my advantage - considering 3.5 weeks ago it was raining every day. Isn't it neat how things work out. Locals were coming out of the woodwork to see the Summit - as the weather was unheard of. Over 140 people have died climbing this mountain - the weather just changes so dramatically due to the elevation and location.

Whatzup!

2008-09-05T15:28:00.001-05:00

and here I am at the top - cold and windy - but Mama Nature gave me clear sky's and 100 mile visibility!

sunset at Lakes of the Clouds.

2008-09-05T15:23:00.002-05:00

Big mountains mean shorter days (10 miles a day is considered good), I am usually doing 12-14 miles tops (and that includes about four 4,000'-5,000' peaks). Stopped at the base of Mt. Washington to spend the night at Lakes of the Clouds hut (5,012'). Above treeline so you really don't have any other options. The croo was fantastic and check out the sweet sunset. If you zoom in on the sign - you can see just 1.4 miles up to the summit (and another 1,200' of elevation!)

um - great view?

2008-09-05T15:19:00.001-05:00

Hiked an impressive 2.7 miles to the Galehead Hut. Everything was white out with fog and supposed to stay that way for 2 days. I downed 3 bowls of soup (all you can eat for $3) and 2 pieces of chocolate cake (all you can eat for $1) and decided to stay (did my work for stay the next morning). High pressure system was supposed to be moving in and pushing all of this out. Wanted to give myself the best chance for getting a view from the top of Mt. Washington. Mama Nature owed me one after the tick incident.

above tree line

2008-09-05T15:17:00.001-05:00

We spend a lot of time above treeline here in the Whites - so they build rock cairns (piles of rocks) to show where the trail leads. Here I was able to get a picture of both the cairn and a blaze. Very few blazes up here - get covered with snow, so the rocks work better.

Does it get better?

2008-09-05T15:10:00.002-05:00

This was my favorite day - and I am of the opinion - that if you aren't a purest - just skip everything south of New Hampshire! This was next day - climbed Little Haystack (4,800'), Mt. Lincoln (5,089') and Mt. Lafayette (5,249') back to back to back (the Franconia Ridge Trail). This is the view from the summit of Mt. Lafayette. Looking down below - you can see the lake of Lonesome Lake Hut - and if you zoom in, you can see a little silver spot - that is the hut itself - about 9 miles away. Just as I got up there - clouds rolled in, and a small airplane brought a glider up and released it. (a lake and a mountain view - I don't think I can top this!)

The Kinsman Mtns

2008-09-05T15:04:00.004-05:00

The biggest difference about being in the whites - is that you can see what is coming up - and what you have just climbed. Here - looking back from North Kinsman (4,293') you can look back and see South Kinsman (4,358') and Wolf Mtn (3,478'). Ended up staying the night at Lonesome Lake Hut - my first "hut" experience of the Whites. There are 8 huts (basically four sided cabins - $80-$100 a night and includes breakfast and diner). They are off the grid - generating power from solar and wind - and composting all left over food scrapes to make new top soil. Thru hikers are allowed to do "work for stay". Basically we do the chores of the "croo". Sweeping, dishes, setting the tables, cleaning the bunk rooms after the guests leave - in exchange - we get to sleep on the floor - and get all left over food. Sometimes enough food for everyone, sometimes not. Good to be there around 5:00pm or so (too early and they ask you to keep hiking). Works out well for all.

Kinsman Notch

2008-08-27T12:19:00.002-05:00

Ended up staying at The Hikers Welcome Hostel in Glencliff the other day after doing a 20 miler. Had taken it easy all week (15 to 17 milers) so wanted to stretch out the legs a bit. Feet are still chewed up. Ran into a ton of hikers that I knew so instead of taking a zero - hiked 10 miles the next day - over Mt. Moosilauke and through the Kinsman Notch - the "welcome to the Whites". The mountain itself isn't bad - its getting into and out of the notch. Pretty much straight up and straight down - all over boulders. Took me 8 hours to hike 10 miles - and that was without taking a lunch break and without pumping water! Check out these wooden steps that are attached to the mtn with rebar - they work - but a little scary commiting your full body weight to them. On the way down - hiked next to a waterfall/cascade for 1.5 miles. Very pretty - but a little scary to be that close to it. Check out the sign the SOBO's got (so I saw it after I was finished). The NOBO's had a basic sign that just said - "be careful in slick and wet conditions". Not quite the same warning. Took a shuttle to Lincoln, NH to stay at a hostel - "One Step at a Time" with the owner - Chet. Taking a zero to let the feet heal up a bit then back to it tomorrow. Caught up with all my friends - but they are slackpacking so will get out in front again. I am starting to think they are trying to lose me . . . . .

2008-08-27T11:54:00.003-05:00

Might be too windy on the video (you can see it actually blow me over a bit as I pan around!) - but wanted to try making one with my camera to see how well it would turn out - they take forever to upload but let me know what you think (do you feel like you are here with me?). The view with the human eye was way better than what the camera can capture - best I can do unless you all want to chip in to buy me some better gear (if so - it better be light weight!)

looks what's next

2008-08-27T11:51:00.001-05:00

See what I mean about different topo! Much bigger mountains up ahead. It is so much harder to get up them - but the view is worth every step. Only going to get better and better from this point north.

topo has changed

2008-08-27T11:42:00.002-05:00

Well - made it to the Whites - and man has the topo changed! I see now why all the SOBO's were happy to be done with this section. We were welcomed to the area by climbing Mt. Moosilauke - the first time we have been really above tree line. I was hiking up in shorts and a short sleave shirt - but as soon as we popped out of the trees - it got crazy windy and really cold. I zipped on my pant legs, and put on gloves, a hat, and 2 more layers. While zipping on my pant legs I took this shot. And here I am at the top!

Live free or die

2008-08-23T11:29:00.002-05:00

Made it into New Hampshire today! We had a 2 or 3 mile road walk - so no "welcome to NH" sign on the AT. Crossed the Connecticut river but didn't take a picture. Went to the PO and then met some hikers for breakfast at "Lou's". As we were setting there - people kept walking by and taking pictures of our packs (that's mine on the far left). Thought I should take one as well. Funny how nice everyone has been so far considering the state motto of Live Free or Die. The AT passes right through the center of downtown and across the campus of Dartmouth. Some of the Fraternities allow you to stay there - and you can camp on the soccer field - but I'm just going to grab lunch and then hike out. Picked up winter gear (hat, gloves, wool long johns, heavier shirt/jacket, and pants). Pack is heavy again. Kilt was mailed home - sorry ladies - no more checking out my legs and wondering if I was wearing anything under it. I'm going to keep my 35 degree bag vs switching back to my 10 degree bag. Saves almost 3/4 of a lb. If I get too cold in the Presidential's - can have it mailed later. Only 2 states to go and down to 442 miles. Will be in Glencliff in 3 days, then it is into the Whites - so you won't hear from me till I get to Gorham - but I should have some amazing photo's - especially after climbing the 6,200' Mt. Washington. Peace.

best spot in VT

2008-08-23T11:22:00.002-05:00

When it isn't raining, Vermont really is beautiful. Here, someone carried up a green Adirondack chair to soak up the views. Tough to beat. There was an apple tree just to the left - but the fruit wasn't ripe yet. Sitting here, I realized, that I may not make it to Katahdin before winter sets in. They will close it on Oct 15th or any time before that if they believe it isn't safe to climb. I should be there by the end of Sept - but the changing tree's had me worried/thinking. I realized that it's ok if I don't touch that sign. I have had an amazing trip, and I am getting from the trail what I needed. I have changed. I will live a different life when I return. Don't get me wrong - I want to touch the sign, I want to be a thru hiker, I want to be part of the 2008 class - but I understand now that I don't need to. This has taken a lot of pressure off of me - and allows me more time at views like this. This is what hiking the AT is about. It is a journey and not a destination.

ol' man winter

2008-08-23T11:16:00.003-05:00

Beautiful day - but what is that in the center- um - the maples are starting to turn crimson for fall. Winter will be here sooner than I wanted (had planned to finish on Sept 1st). Temps are a little cooler in the morning (making it harder to get out of your bag), but the big change is the amount of daylight. Used to be able to hike till 9:00 - 9:30pm before having to put on your headlamp. Now you pretty much need to be finding your camping spot by 7:15, as the sun drops fast after that. Need to get a move on, but the upcoming Whites and my out of shape body - well, neither say "go fast".

all alone

2008-08-23T11:11:00.002-05:00

On my second day out - I stretched the legs out to 15.5 miles. Felt pretty good - though the hips and shoulders are bruised from the pack - and the backs of my feet are chewed up. I have clearly lost a step. Used to take my first break at mile 6, now I take it at mile 2. Need a break about every 2 miles - but still better than laying in a hospital bed. Feels good to have the sun on my face again. This was the first night, since I have been out here, that I was completely alone. I stealth camped by myself - and it was an amazing feeling - just me and the timber - no one else. Found a great spot in a grove of pines - forgot how good it is to sleep with pine trees. A pile of dead pine needles rivals many beds.

moo

2008-08-23T11:08:00.003-05:00

Just a nice view - check out the cattle down in the lower left. Vermud has changed - now that the 4 weeks of rain are over (the northeast was dominated while I was in town - rain everyday) Northern Vermont has become beautiful. (those are PUD's to the right that we had just hiked over before coimng to this pasture - see how they roll one after another - with no view - just up and down, up and down).

Lakota lookout

2008-08-23T11:00:00.003-05:00

One of the very few views between Killington Mtn and New Hampshire. Some private land owners let hikers climb up on top of their cabin for a view. Since it was nice out, I took the 0.2 mile side trail - glad I did. Way off in the distance, the first big mountain with the flat ridge line is Mt. Moosilauke - the start of the Whites.

this one is for Freebird!

2008-08-23T10:54:00.003-05:00

This shot is for Freebird - I am demonstrating "the ol' hubba trick". When we were hiking - we were between groups - and so usually had the shelters to ourselves. We both had MSR Hubba 1 man tents - which take up no more space than we would normally - so we started setting them up in the shelters. Stay dry and no mosquito's. Some how we started calling it "the ol' hubba trick". This was my first day back on the trail. I only did 10.5 miles, killed me to stop at 2:30 in the afternoon - but knew better since I had taken 3.5 weeks off. Big day back - tons of back to back 400' - 600' PUD's. Not easy on me - but a good way to get back to conditioning. about 10 people that night - including Keychain, Zen, and Thinker (haven't seen them since Georgia). Felt good to be back home.

that's one big tick!

2008-08-23T10:49:00.002-05:00

ok - kinda gross - but very funny! They made me a giant tick cake - complete with licorice legs, and a raspberry center - that oozed red when I cut the head off! I have come to like carab - could almost, almost give up chocolate. All the hikers dug in and we destroyed it pretty quickly. What a great experience.

send off

2008-08-23T10:45:00.003-05:00

The members of the 12 Tribes had a big send off for me (I was practically family by this point). All the hikers and the community members had a big breakfast together before I strapped the pack back on. Again - a huge thanks to the community for taking me in, and letting me work for stay. I would not have been able to complete this hike without them. It was also really cool to see a community of people living toghether - sharing everything - the world could benefit if we looked at this - vs having to have all of our own stuff.

old friends

2008-08-19T13:42:00.004-05:00

Chainsaw, Sweet Potato, and the one and only Brahma Bull. Hoot and Sundance hiked out before I was able to get a new picture - so good to see them again - and they took me out for sushi (www.wayfaringnorth.blogspot.com). The Bulls are going to stay a few days - and they took me out for pizza (www.walkingtomaine.blogspot.com). Pixie and Hollar rolled in as well - so going to hang out with them tonight - and then tomorrow I'm HIKING AGAIN!!!! Ideally - the next time I post something - I will be in New Hampshire. I bet Freebird will be done in a week - I'm right behind you buddy! Mind, body, soul - all in a good place.

and its out!

2008-08-18T16:28:00.002-05:00

look at phatty - laying in bed, eating, with no hiking for 3.5 weeks - looks like I put some lbs back on! you can see basically where the line traveled to - it was 37 cm and set right above my heart. They want me to wait 24 hours to make sure that the hole clots before I do anything physical. I could hike out Tuesday afternoon - but going to wait till Wed morning - might as well get a good breakfast and have the entire day - not sure how the body is going to respond to having a pack on again. Tons of friends are rolling in - hope to upload some pictures tomorrow of everyone. Getting REALLY excited to start hiking again - and to touch that sign.

PICC is coming out!

2008-08-18T16:21:00.003-05:00

Monday at 3:00 - visiting nurse came to pull my PICC line - last antibiotics at 10:00 this morning. Thought I would show an action shot - of her slowly pulling it out of my arm. WAY easier than putting it in!

I know the E is backwards - thanks for pointing it out

2008-08-13T14:52:00.005-05:00

yep - this is what happens when you get bored, have a Wal-Mart nearby and the place you are staying has a T-Shirt press. Actually its kinda funny that the E came out wrong - since Meningitis is a swelling around your brain. (For what its worth - I had to do it upside down and backwards - and it was my first time). Under a week to go - which is pretty exciting. Brahma Bull, Sweet Potato, Hoot, and Sundance should all be getting here soon. Have seen two more movies - Mama Mia and Pineapple Express (only thing left is Space Chimps and Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2). If you don't live in Kansas City - you should walk outside and light your ticket money on fire vs seeing these two. Or hike part of the AT and use it as fire starter - just to watch the looks on a thru hikers face. If you do live in KC, walk down to the plaza, to the Barnes and Nobel and give it to the homeless guy that always asks for a down payment on a cheeseburger. Both movies are that bad. Went to Rutland Art in the Park festival last weekend (think Brookside Art Fair) and this coming weekend is the Long Trail Festival - so I'm keeping pretty busy. Read a book by local VT author, Bill McKibben called "Deep Economy". It is life changing and you should read it. Talks about how we have screwed up the economy and our planet - as we have gotten too efficient - replaced man with machine - and can ship produce to any where in the world. Too reliant on fossil fuels, and "more" is no longer "better" - we simply have too much stuff. We have to make changes now to save this planet. Growth is no longer the answer (if India and China live like the US - the planet can't handle it). Hits close to home when you are with Mama Nature everyday (I miss her by the way). I liked it so much I purchased another one called "Enough" - and so far it is just as good. Talks about issues of nanotechnology, robotics and changing your child's DNA before they are born via genetic engeneering (i.e. increasing their IQ). Should we be even looking at these technologies? Can we control them if they grow at their current speed? Should finish in the next day or so and plan to read one more of his called "Fight Global Warming Now - taking action in your community". He lives about 30 miles from where I am staying - emailed him to see if we could have lunch - and he replied that he would love to but is currently traveling. He thinks highly of thru hikers. I realize now that I was supposed to come to Rutland - granted would have liked another signal than the Lyme, as I was planning on going into Killington, not Rutland. I fell in love with a book that talks about how we should get back to small communities, and raise a lot of our own local food - interesting that I am staying with a group that does just that. They live in a community and have a fully self-sustaining farm in Virginia - completely off the grid - and even make their own biodesiel fuel for their vehicles. Not sure what I am supposed to do with this new knowledge yet - but was clearly supposed to meet the members of The 12 Tribes - see in action what Bill talks about in his book. I have to make a difference (beyond just changing the bulbs out to CFL's). Wait - I am lowering my carbon footprint - maybe living in a tent is the answer . . . . . (since I don't have any bulbs to change out!). This part of my journey has taught me how to relax - though I am ready to hike again. Talking to new hikers every day has been good for the soul. Feel free to contact me - I hit the library every day. Peace.

another update

2008-08-09T09:08:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to check in with everyone. Went to the Dr. yesterday - and good news to report. Everything looks good - and no more blood work or tests are needed. After I push the last of the antibiotics through (10 days) the visiting nurse will pull my PICC line out - and I can immediately start hiking again! He said the nose should go back to normal over time - not sure why its still numb - but as long as I gain feeling again - great. If not - I'll have a couple of good souvenirs - a little finger that doesn't work, and a numb nose. Probably will make a T-Shirt that says "Hiked the 2,176 miles of the AT and all I got was Lyme Meningitis." Actually one of their top hand surgeons looked at my finger while I was in the hospital and she said no damage and in a year should be back to almost normal. For super-overkill - the Dr. went ahead and gave me some of the oral antibiotics that they started me on. If I get bit again - if you take them right away you can head this off at the pass - and clearly I know what the symptoms are. Have had a blast working at the cafe - I have cooked diner for the hikers and the community a couple of times - and I know how to close the restaurant so I organize the hikers every night. My old buddy The Breeze took a bus into town to come see me. I love seeing all of my old friends - just wish I could hike out with them. Time is going by pretty quickly and I will be on the trail soon. Haven't seen any more movies - started reading a book instead. Feeling good - but getting fat again. Weighed in - and I have put on 3 lbs in 2 weeks. guessing that will come of quickly when I hit the Whites. Tough to go from burning 5,000 calories a day down to 7. Metabolism doesn't know what to do. Oh - and edc cl - nice touch that one of the twins is a nurse - that will come in handy. I still have a couple of chapters to write - before I can worry about the last one. My kilt hem line is pretty long - but you can tell them 1.5 inches difference. That should solve the equation and likely result in a phone call! Peace.

update

2008-08-07T10:01:00.005-05:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that I am alive and doing well. Every day feels a little bit better - though my nose and part of my lip are still numb. Going to the Dr tomorrow, and the nurse brings me some more meds tomorrow. Injecting them has become no big deal. Under 2 weeks to go! should be hiking again in the 18th or 19th of Aug. Have been working a lot in the cafe - which feels good to give back - and helps to keep me from being so bored. Usually busing tables, moping, sweeping, prepping food, rolling silverware - all basic stuff - and allows me to have 3 meals a day and a roof over my head. Simply couldn't be doing this other wise. One good thing - is that I am seeing a lot of people that I used to hike with. Last night - Sunny and Share rolled in - I met them on my very first night camping. Day 1 - so we learning to cook, throwing a bear line for the first time, and checking out each other's gear. We hiked together for 3 days - then at Neels Gap - they were having a shakedown on their packs (seasoned hikers going through and telling you what you don't need) and looking at new shoes - so I hiked on. At one point they passed me, and then I passed them - never seeing each other till last night. It was fun to see how skinny all of us were - and to get caught up. They are going to be moving to a farm in Virgina when done with the trail - and I'm hoping I can fly out and see them at some point. Have also seen 3 movies - Stepbrother, The Dark Knight, and Wall-e. Email me for reviews. I think today I am seeing Mama Mia. Small town and I'm running out of movies. Likely will go buy a book soon - almost through all of the magazines at the library. Brama Bull and Sweet Potato called this morning - they had heard from some SOBO's about me - and are planning on stopping by in a week or so to see me. I just wish it was 2 weeks instead of 3 for the treatment - so I could hike again with all my old friends. I don't see any way that I can make up that kind of time. It's hard enough catching up a couple of days - let alone a couple of weeks - and I don't think we have the mileage left for me to catch up - since you have to do their mileage plus 4-5 more miles a day. Spirits are good, and I think I'm putting on weight - eating 3 good meals a day plus no hiking - yikes - I might end up weighing more than I did at the start! I check email everyday and will probably post again next week after I talk to the Dr. Feel free to contact me. Also - not sure who edc cl is - but I love your comments - and now that we are talking about twins . . . well I might start running as soon as they give me the go ahead to hike!!!

Blaze - now in HD!

2008-08-04T08:12:00.002-05:00

Check out my inputs! I think I can get a converter at Radio Shack to convert these from IV to HDMI - so I can start getting HD signals! Ha. Thanks to everyone that called, emailed, text'd while I was laying for 5 days in a hospital bed. The night they told me that I had lyme meningitis and that it would take 21 days of treatment - I cried. Not because I had the lyme -but because I thought I was going to have to quit. I appreciate everyone not asking me - I just needed some time to think about it. I figured if I came "home" to get better - that I would just end up flying back out here to finish - so less money and easier logistics to stay. Plus it really is just part of my journey. I am exactly where I am supposed to be right now. I can't thank the 12 Tribes community enough - they are letting me stay at their hostel for the entire duration of my treatment (21 days total - I have 15 left!). They are letting me trade out work for stay at their cafe - so I work about 3-4 hours a day - sweeping, mopping, busing tables, moving stuff, dishes etc - in exchange for 3 organic meals a day and lodging. This would not be financially possible if I was in a hotel. Planning on going to the library a lot. Went to see Stepbrothers yesterday and plan on seeing The Dark Knight today or tomorrow. Weird having this much interaction with society again. Trying to walk around town to keep some kind of conditioning for my legs. Afraid I'm going to lose my trail legs right before the Whites. It is what it is. Once a day I do my meds - flush both lines with saline, then over 5 mins inject 20ml of Ceftriaxone - then flush again with saline. If you zoom in - you can see the blue catheter going into my arm. It runs up my arm in a vein, turns the corner under my shoulder, goes past my collar bone - then turns again and goes down to my heart. Allows the drug to mix with a lot of blood quickly and isn't so hard on my veins, and I don't have to have an IV jabbed in every day for 21 days. Not going to lie - took 3 people, a long wire, a big needle, and ultrasound to get it there. Not the most pleasant procedure - especially when turning to get to your heart - vs going up into your neck. But WAY better than the spinal tap or lumbar puncture as it is also referred to as. I'm feeling better every day - didn't get to spend my birthday on trail like I wanted - but oh well. 34 is going to be an exciting year for me. Thanks again for all the emotional help as I have gotten through this. Actually pretty happy with how I handled it. The trail has taught me how to flow. Can't imagine I will have much to post over the next 2 weeks - but will let you know when I am getting back on trail.

feeling better

2008-08-04T08:08:00.002-05:00

Here I am feeling a little better - as soon as they switched my antibiotics I started feeling better every day. Had to get out for a bit of fresh air - hard to go from hiking 20 miles a day - to laying in a hospital bed for 5 days - with the lights out and the blinds shut (light was bothering me). Really thankful that this happened close to a hospital and really happy with the care I received from Rutland Regional. Is it just me - or am I rocking that gown, scrubs, crocs combo? I think since I had crocs - they were affraid to give me the scrubs top - for fear that I would try to escape - looking like a nurse.

f'n ticks

2008-08-04T08:05:00.001-05:00

Here I am getting my ass handed to me by the bacteria. Check out the room - they put me in the kids wing - because they didn't have any other beds available at the time. I had glow in the dark stars on the ceiling - just like camping.

barkeep - I'll take a vodka with lyme.

2008-07-30T08:31:00.004-05:00

well - you haven't heard from me for a while - and I'm guessing that some of you picked up the spelling that I used for the title. When I left Manchester Center, my knee pain was gone - I had however started a bit of a headache. I rarely get headaches and with 800mg of advil 3 times a day for the knee, was surprised that I would have one. Assuming it was just from caffeine since I had been in town for 3 days. I hiked on. As each day passed - I felt worse. No appetite, no power, very lethargic, my neck started to tighten, and then the headache got out of control. Would normally be a 7-8 out of 10, then every few mins would jump up to 12 out of 10 and I would wince out loud. Advil all day helped take the edge off of it. Was trying to hike to Rutland VT to get to the hospital. Of course had to go over the tallest peak in the state (Mt. Killington) to do it. : ) Was able to call a trail maintaineer to come get me and drop me off at the hospital. Myself and 2 Dr's all felt it was Lyme Disease. By this point I had a large rash on my left foot (the rash and headache are the key's). They drew blood and sent it off - takes a few days to get results back. They were worried that it might be Lyme Meningitis - so they gave me a CT head scan - and then - oh yeah - got to have a spinal tap. (not talking about the kick ass band with amps that go to 11). Spinal tap showed 10 white blood cells - should be none, but kind of a rounding error. As the next day went on, my nose and lip became numb, my right eye dropped and swelled, and I couldn't control/use all of the muscles in the right side of my face. They brought in a Neurologist for some tests and we upped my Lyme antibiotics to an IV based one vs the oral one. Just got the results back - it is Lyme Menegitis. Going to have to have a Pick Line installed as I am going to have to be on the IV meds for 3 weeks. Have met with a social worker to look at housing options - or might fly home. Have put about 12 bags of fluid in me - took 4 or 5 before I had to pee the first night - so I was very dry! Fluid and food - feeling better - but the moment the pain med wears off - my headache comes screaming back - so something is still causing inflammation of my brain. I'll be honest, didn't exactly plan on this. Several people out here have gotten Lyme - but they have been able to take pills and keep on hiking - everyone knows that when I do something - I go all out - so why not have it attack my brain! The hospital is great and have let me borrow a laptop so I can check in with you and let you know what is going on. No game plan yet and please don't ask me about the million dollar question - I'm not making decisions for another day or so. Spirits are still high, but also understand reality. Just part of my journey right now. Kind of ironic though - I'm dealing with the heat, cold, rain, topography, physical challenge, and even mentally holding my shit together - and it might fall apart thanks to a creepy crawly smaller than a freckle. I'm at Rutland Regional Medical Center 160 Allen Street, Rutland Vermont, 05701. room 212 802-775-7111

double zero - knee pain

2008-07-24T19:14:00.002-05:00

Just a quick note to let you know that Freebird and I are still in Manchester Center - ended up taking a double zero. Weather has been bad - flood conditions for last couple of days - supposed to break on Friday - trail is like a stream. I have had intense knee pain for the last two days (on my days off!). Right knee - pain is about an 8 or 9 out of 10 unless I have 800mg of advil in me (which I'm eating like candy right now) and icing it. The pain travels up the side of my leg and into my glutes - which makes me think IT Band - I just don't know anything about that. The side leg pain isn't as bad - mostly centered under my kneecap. I know the dr would just say rest, ice, and oh - no hiking. I took two days off - best I can do - unless I can't walk in the morning. There is a shelter 2 miles from town - so will head there and then decide. I think the reality of hiking over 1,600 miles is just simply wearing my body out.

75% done!!!

2008-07-23T16:05:00.003-05:00

Freebird and I cleared the 75% mark the other day - but neither of us were feeling well - mind and body are not in a good place. Skipping that diner really had an effect on me - and to be honest - this is getting old - just grinding me down - the body isn't meant for this. No, I'm not quitting - it's just getting really hard - and the Whites and Maine will not take it easy on us for sure. We decided to take a non planned zero here in Manchester Center, VT. Got in yesterday and stayed at Suttons Place, but today are staying at a brand new hostel that opened last week. IT IS AMAZING HERE. Check out the sign Jeff has as you walk in through the door - just 538 more miles to go! Going to rest up and eat as much as I can - when I come off trail I am usually weighing 145 right now, then after a zero get back up to 150 - must be pretty dehydrated normally. Note - haven't weighed 145 since 1992 - when I graduated high school! I'm telling you - if you want to lose weight - the AT will strip it right off. Will be back on trail tommorrow and ready to finish up Vermont and tackle the Whites. Up to 11 or 12 SOBO's now - so its just a matter of time. Peace.

you know me and my lakes . . .

2008-07-23T15:59:00.004-05:00

It simply doesn't get old - here I am overlooking Stratton Pond (at the base of the mtn where Benton MacKaye came up with the idea for the AT). Yes it is starting to get cooler - will be picking up additional gear as soon as I get to New Hampshire. Please take the time to get out here and take some of this in - it changes you - makes you appreciate everything so much more. Oh - and I saw my first Moose - a younger one - came walking down the trail at me - turned and went the other way - no way to get a camera out in time - but still way cool.

birthplace

2008-07-23T15:52:00.002-05:00

It was from this spot that the LT and thus later the AT were conceived - wanting a trail to follow the spine of the entire mountain chain. And look - it actually quit raining for abit - for me to climb the fire tower and get a couple of pics. Pretty cool to know that this is where it all started.

or should we call it Vermud

2008-07-23T15:43:00.003-05:00

June was the end of "mud season" here in Vermont - but you couldn't tell me. The trail gets a ton of use (since both AT and LT) and tons of rain. Most of it looks like this - muddy - and you sink down 2-3 inches in it (unless they have the boardwalk system in place). tough to hike in. Has rained every day - and not just sprinkles - HUGE thunderstorms. I got caught in one the other night and had to climb Glastenbury Mtn (3,748') in the dark and in a thunderstorm. Very scary. Supposed to put your poles and pack away from you due to lightening - but I wanted to get out of that situation. Was soaked - and headlight just reflected back in your face - so had to hunt and peck with my poles for the trail. not going to lie - this was the scariest moment I have had out here. Got to the Goddard Shelter late and was shivering - so skipped dinner and went to bed. Horrible idea - not enough calories - couldn't get up and going in the morning and had to take a quick nap during the day - really ran the body down and couldn't get caught up. Getting wet every day is getting really old. Nothing ever dries out - and body doesn't react well to hiking in wet clothes for 12 hours a day - every day. Not doing well at this point. Ready for it to be over.

Vermont or Bust

2008-07-23T15:39:00.001-05:00

Day 110 made it to the first of "the big 3". Meeting tons of people - as the AT follows the LT(Long Trail) for about 97 miles before it heads up to Canada). Shelters are packed - but fewer mosquitoes.

top of Mt. Greylock

2008-07-23T15:34:00.002-05:00

Climbed Mt. Greylock - here is the monument at the top. at 3,491 feet - the highest point in the state. Had planned on climbing the night before - but heard thunder for a bit and didn't think aluminum poles, being on the highest peak, and a storm went together. Glad I ducked into a shelter that night because HUGE thunderstorm came through not long after.

good point - Mr Thoreau

2008-07-23T15:29:00.002-05:00

In case you can't see it - the rock is engraved - "It were as well to be educated in the shadow of a mountain as in more classic shade. Some will remember, no doubt, not only that they went to college, but that they went to the mountain." Well said - sir. The trail teaches you about yourself more than any class can. I'm amazed that the AT humbles you every single day - day in and day out. There is simply never an easy day hiking out here.

did you get your tickets?

2008-07-23T15:21:00.002-05:00

To the gun show - baby? Who is that rockin' the classic Muscle-T? Rolled into Dalton, Mass and was passing Tom Levardi's place (can't miss it - has Leki trekking poles lining the walkway). He invited me to stay - and glad I did - as he is a staple on the AT in Dalton. For years he has allowed hikers to camp out (the trail goes right past his house). There were about 10 of us there - the night before was close to 30! He let us shower, sleep inside anywhere we could find a horizontal surface, had bikes so we could ride to the PO and laundry, shuttled us for food - and had thrift store clothing - so we could wash everything we own. I rocked the Muscle T for 2 days - as I took a well deserved zero. You'll remember this is the town with the mean library. Thanks to whomever left that note about the sexy librarians being at Katahdin - looking forward to that. Muscle T and Kilt - does it get much better than that?

lakeside table

2008-07-23T15:17:00.002-05:00

don't get me wrong - I love climbing a mtn on a sunny day and having a view for miles. but for me - coming out of the timber to a lake is one of the best treats of the trail. Typically try to just hang out or have a meal overlooking the water (if the mosquitoes don't carry you off).

Race Mtn

2008-07-23T15:08:00.003-05:00

Here are views from the top of Race mountain (again I highly recommend this as a dayhike). I thought it was better than Bear Mtn because you walk along the exposed clif side - longer views than just the summit. Here are a couple of pics from the ridgeline - have to admit - so cool to be above treeline - to be the tallest thing on the mtn at that time. this would be a great taste of the AT - camping at Sages Revine and climbing Race Mtn - plus you could be in two states. Doing 20+ everyday through these states to bang them out.

and yet another one.

2008-07-23T15:05:00.002-05:00

Massachusetts here I come. (this was at the bottom of Sages Ravine Brook).

tons of water

2008-07-23T14:58:00.003-05:00

Connecticut has had tons of water which has made carrying it easier. They also have between 600 million and 800 million mosquitoes per square foot of trail (have heard that a large portion of their bats died off this last winter). Absolutely drives you mad - when you stop to pump water they just swarm on you - and while hiking they attack your elbows, back of your arms, and the tops of your shoulder - they know you can't get to these areas easily while holding trekking poles. These images are of Sages Ravine Brook - absolutely beautiful. pictures don't do the area justice. I would recommend this area for a day hike - easy to get to by car - and right on the border - easy location to climb Bear Mtn, and Race Mtn. (Race was my favorite and will show it next).

great view

2008-07-23T14:50:00.003-05:00

Conneticut has had some pretty sick ascents and descents - the one coming out of Kent was killer - and having a few beers with dinner was not the best idea for it. Can't remember if this spot had a name or not - but we came down out of the timber to this clearing - on a beautiful day. Days like this remind me of why I am putting my mind and body through all this.

Library Nazi

2008-07-17T11:15:00.004-05:00

Got into Dalton, Mass yesterday with an easy 12 miler (new definition of nero) after doing a week of 20+. Taking a much needed day off - haven't had a good, relaxing zero for over 500 miles (last one was in Harpers Ferry). Sure I took one in Port Clinton, but that was after "creating" it with a night hike till 11:30pm - then closing out a bar till 3:30am. Then running around - so wasn't relaxing. Staying at a Trail Angels house - Tom - lets us shower and sleep anywhere on the floor - and has bikes for us to get around town on. Amazing hospitality. Can't work on the blog - as the librarian here was incredibly strict on 1 hour limit (even though no one else here and 6 computers, and can't plug in USB card reader - she thinks that I'm putting something on the computer.) I have found that most small town librarians are old and mean - not wavering on the "rules" no matter what. Have yet to come across the tall, brunette, with the hair up in a bun, glasses in the mouth, type - that let their hair down when you come in. Always old and mean. Finished up NJ, NY, Conn, and almost done with Mass. Will be in Vermont in 2 days! Have seen 4 SOBO's now - so it is getting real. The end was so far off that I didn't have to think about it - now its probably only 6-7 weeks away. Yikes. Every step I am taking is north bound, but after I touch that sign in Maine, every step after that will be south bound. Not sure I can deal with that yet. The Journey will be over. This journey anyway. Have several good pictures to show you - but alas - society has placed "rules" on me. Might be a week or two before I can update. Next time you are in your local library - please give a mean scowl to the librarian for me. Still about a week ahead of my original published schedule. Note - I will be through Vermont in about half of the time from what I originally planned - likely making it to New Hampshire by the first few days in Aug (my 34th bday is Aug 2nd) vs the second week. thanks and Godspeed.

number 9!

2008-07-11T13:43:00.002-05:00

Entering state number 9 - rolling into Connecticut on day 101. Can't believe I've been hiking that long - and have only taken 8 days off. And this is a choice. Been getting up early to beat the heat everyday - makes for a long day - but easier on the body. Sitting at the Library in Kent, Conn. Have just covered 1,451 miles! Should hit the 1,500 mile mark in a few days - and will be under 700 to go. I know that still sounds funny - 700 miles to go - but considering what we've been through - it feels good to say it. Looking forward to better views here in the New England states - as we go back up to 4,000-6,000 feet all day. Taking a zero in 6 days - so will check in then. Still averaging about 20 miles a day - but will probably be slowing down a bit soon due to topo.

all aboard!

2008-07-11T13:40:00.002-05:00

the trail actually has a train stop on it - could take it right into NYC. Chose to walk 0.6 of a mile to a deli for a well deserved sandwhich and 3 hour break. Hiking in the hot afternoon isn't fun.

quiet contemplation

2008-07-11T13:35:00.002-05:00

Heat is getting old really quick - last week all above 90 and the humidity is worse than KC. Nothing like being in wet clothes for 10 hours a day. Climbed Bear Mountain - by the time we got to the bottom - the Zoo was closed. Would have been weird - seeing animals in cages that I have been seeing just several yards away. If the zoo had been open - would have gone down to the AT's lowest point - 124 feet. Instead - took another path - and then over the Bear Mountain Bridge. Heat is taking a toll. Mind and body are ready for a zero. Planning one in Dalton, Mass. Currently hiking with Freebird, Beatbox, Butters, Barefoot, Hotwheels, Shutterbug, Bear Pack, Bear Bait, Pacer, Snake Whisperer, and Shelter Monkey. Big group.

First SOBO thru hiker!

2008-07-11T13:28:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I met my first one - the first southbound thru hiker. His name is Flashdance and he started on May 29th in Maine. Covering 800 miles in 5 weeks is rocking!!! Especially since the last 3 states are considered "the second half". Elevation swings will be huge again. I read in the journals that he had not taken a zero yet - but was planning a week off - he deserves it after that. I'm not going to plan on being done in 5 weeks. Will wait to meet the 2nd SOBO to get a better idea of when I will finish. I am currently 6 days ahead of my original schedule. Assuming I will finish 1st or 2nd week of Sept.

good morning

2008-07-11T13:22:00.002-05:00

8:00am on a Monday morning - Freebird and I set overlooking a lake - one of the best camping sites I have had so far. We talked how everyone must be getting ready for work - and all we had to do was take in the serenity. After waking up at Carol/Geoffrey's - we ended up hitting trail magic again that night! Met a guy named Paddy-O that has been taking care of hikers for 8 years. Mats to sit on, gator aid, hot dogs, calzones - and his own creation - the "trail bomb". Very similar to the Irish Car Bomb if you are familiar with that. He pours you a Guinness, then you drop in a shot of half whisky/half Irish creme - then slam it all down. Couple of those felt good - and made this next morning easier to take our time. Honestly - I don't drink all the time - but the added calories and carbs do come in handy. I'm like a furnace - food is just fuel to me at this point.

taking in a stray

2008-07-11T13:17:00.002-05:00

Hiked into Vernon NJ for the 4th - but fireworks were to be on the 5th - everyone knows how much I love fireworks. So - passing into Warwick, NY - Freebird called his cousins. Carole and Geoffrey came and picked us up, let us shower and laundry, and treated us to an amazing dinner and breakfast! Lisa and Jay are getting married in a couple of weeks - best wishes to them both. Jay - "Jaywalker" was a past thru hiker as well - and was able to share stories with us. Eating and drinking well - I tell you - this is hiking!

another one bites the dust

2008-07-11T13:12:00.002-05:00

I want to wake up - in a city that never sleeps. Here I am at 1,351 miles - passing out of New Jersey and into New York. That is pretty wild - that I am in NY - and I didn't fly - I walked! Had hoped to see the skyline from one of the peaks - but has been hazy and 90+ degrees everyday - did pass within 30 miles of the city - which was cool. NJ was great hiking and fantastic views from the ridges - NY is kind of like a minature version of Georgia - they welcomed us with rock scrambles and lots of hand over hand climbing. Reminds me of "the roller coaster."