tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-204425342012-01-26T15:40:33.194-05:00Fulfill Your Hiking Dream! Here to help fellow hikers by offering wisdom, ideas, and lessons learned.Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.comBlogger1401100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-87993659887083430172012-01-25T11:17:00.001-05:002012-01-25T15:28:29.108-05:00

With hikers gearing up for the spring hiking season, the question comes forth regarding mail drops and the postal service. This blog post is not about the pros and cons of mail drops or what to put in your drops - I will blog on that at another time - but logistics for mailing them out. Fellow hiker Len B. (trail name 4eyedbuzzard) has some good advice.    For terminology sake - a "bounce box"

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-28056872126350846252012-01-21T12:18:00.001-05:002012-01-21T12:30:26.712-05:00

Trailer for the documentary by Pete Bell Review If you've ever wanted to see what the John Muir Trail entails in all its scenic wonder as well as some of its hiking challenges, this documentary is for you.  Filmed by skilled videographer Pete Bell, it follows in the footsteps of six teen guys who backpack the famous trail, some on their very first backpacking adventure.  The filmmaker uses

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-73365356205412724192012-01-17T20:16:00.003-05:002012-01-25T20:59:14.160-05:00

A little preemptive duct taping never hurts Not long ago I posted a first aid list on White Blaze and thought I would go ahead and share here as well. Many are planning their lists for hikes this coming spring and summer. Homemade kits vs ready-made? Many outdoor shops sell the "Adventure Kits" and other ready-made first aid kits. I have an adventure medical kit and except for the band-aids

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-59444897564603634932012-01-05T21:01:00.002-05:002012-01-06T13:59:06.669-05:00

Being a frequent contributor to the hiker forum White Blaze, I have seen the map debate time and time again. And time and time again I see the same reasons crop up as to why hikers choose not to carry maps or even find them an essential part of their gear list -   Common arguments against taking maps on the Appalachian Trail -  -          The trail is blazed white and easy to follow. You can’t

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-63732159130621487072011-12-29T22:05:00.000-05:002011-12-29T22:05:57.601-05:00

Wow, what a year! From finishing the Appalachian Trail southbound to hiking the wilds of Shenandoah National Park to a hiking adventure in Yellowstone and Great Sand Dunes, to day hiking in Bermuda, this was a great year for hiking. As I ponder my many adventures, I always wonder what lies ahead in 2012. I can try to plan my way, but I sure don't know what will really happen. I do hope you will

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-38746346750815225122011-12-21T15:29:00.000-05:002011-12-21T15:29:58.373-05:00

Appalachian Trail Over Unaka Mtn, North Carolina Blissful Hiking wishes you and your family, friends, and hiking buddies a most wonderful Christmas celebration. I look forward to sharing many more adventures and trail tips with you in the coming New Year!  Some topics I've been thinking about -  - 2011 hiking year in review - ticks and Lyme, not just for summer anymore - how to share

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-41386993387330767992011-12-08T20:30:00.008-05:002012-01-06T13:54:15.323-05:00

Who's to say a simple trek in the woods can't be glorious, especially on the heels of a fresh snowfall? Come see what I discovered on my little trail adventure up the Pass Mountain Trail (as you may know, I am endeavoring to hike every trail in Shenandoah National Park) and see what I discover as I climb in elevation. Walks in snowfall are amazing. Especially if you can make it out right

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-50128806520613593512011-12-02T10:28:00.000-05:002011-12-02T10:28:07.448-05:00

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Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-46080132103364820432011-11-28T21:07:00.001-05:002012-01-06T13:54:53.565-05:00

Some inspiration today to go for your dreams. You never know what the future holds...  This was given to me when I was planning my first hike of the AT. And I went for it. I hope you will, too.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-72395062182843215932011-11-22T23:08:00.001-05:002012-01-06T13:56:51.874-05:00

At a speaking event at REI Richmond with my gear display The holidays are upon us and so, too, are those great long distance hikes planned for next year. I thought I’d go ahead and post my typical gear list for a March start in the south along the Appalachian Trail and then some places that have done me well in purchasing gear. PackingULA catalystSil nylon or Sea to Summit pack coverGarbage

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-40752244531298514102011-11-08T21:15:00.008-05:002011-11-08T21:35:46.474-05:00

I'm currently editing my book on my trail adventures both north and south and the inspiration I gained from the experience.  Waiting for transportation to White House Landing in Maine While editing my journey from last summer, I came across these sentences that speak to what the trail and hiking is really all about -  Tackling the Chairback Range, Maine "We are all from different backgrounds

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-83513734918779935512011-11-07T15:14:00.000-05:002011-11-07T15:14:36.678-05:00

This past Saturday (November 5, 2011) I spent a lovely day in Shenandoah National Park to finish a day hike of the southern section. I had begun this part back in my backpacking trip late in August but wanted to complete to Swift Run Gap, approx. 16 miles with the side trail. Just last week I took the trail around the Loft Mtn campground (upon completing another wander within the Big Run

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-44136747749930935132011-10-30T23:19:00.000-04:002011-10-30T23:19:36.200-04:00

View from the ridgeline Nearly the end of the month - but I wanted to share another of my hikes I've enjoyed this past year. I had the opportunity for a day hike in June along the crest of the Massanutten Range in Virginia, that is, the southern section, about 16 miles. I started at the old Massanutten Visitor Center off Rt 211 which is now closed. Originally I was trying to get dropped off at

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-32722256016823948092011-10-27T20:25:00.000-04:002011-10-27T20:25:52.138-04:00

I thought it might be fun to blog a little about the common phrases one hears in AT circles (AT as in Appalachian Trail). I am including an unofficial official glossary of the more frequent terms or phrases you'll hear said on the trail, in a hostel or shelter area, or even online in hiker forums. 2,000 Miler - one who has hiked the entire length of the AT , no matter how long it takes AT -

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-83926379155169110302011-10-24T19:59:00.002-04:002011-10-30T23:44:57.638-04:00

Fishin' Fred has a new site! For those who know him or who don't, he creates super hiker craft items - jewelry, plaques, stickers, and much more! Harmless Hikers Production website has just opened, and he is offering FREE SHIPPING until December 1st!  Great time to stock up on some unique gifts for the hikers on your list! You can also find selected Appalachian Trail books as well as music.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-76097507693033766542011-10-24T09:57:00.000-04:002011-10-24T09:57:47.155-04:00

Why doesn't one finish the hike they had planned? Following up on an earlier blog I wrote on a similar topic, I wanted to share this very insightful post from a fellow hiker on White Blaze. There are some good insights to consider.  "This spring I set out to do a 6 week section, and didn't make it as far as I wanted to. So I guess I'll talk about why I quit. I actually quit twice, went

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-28157303343332767912011-10-20T21:14:00.000-04:002011-10-20T21:14:28.101-04:00

Going up from Lehigh Gap, PA Thought I'd post some pictures I took of various and interesting white blazes of the Appalachian Trail discovered along my 4,000+ mile wanders. In Mahoosuc Notch, Maine In New York for the 4th Bad Hair Day in MA On the Dover Oak in NY - largest oak tree on the AT On a building - trail through Mountain Crossings in Georgia On a good tree to rest by in

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-56062456433780907172011-10-17T20:04:00.000-04:002011-10-17T20:04:06.992-04:00

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Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-74847467793667133242011-10-09T20:50:00.000-04:002011-10-09T20:50:03.199-04:00

One unhappy hiker. Me on the trail  in '07 with a calf injury  Inevitably it happens. You are hiking along. You trip over a root. Down you go with an agonizing pain in your ankle. Or knee. Or calf. I can’t begin to tell you how often it has happened to me. In the picture above I am on my northbound hike of the Appalachian Trail with my son, and I felt this sickening pain in my right calf. I

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-34366951773960021572011-10-07T10:51:00.001-04:002011-10-07T10:52:09.327-04:00

I just updated my speaking page with clips taken from the two presentations at the REI in Richmond. Great fun, great audience and looking forward to returning on November 2nd! If you need a speaker for your outdoor group, place of business, etc. let me know and we can talk about it. 

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-80521300982132147822011-10-05T19:01:00.001-04:002011-10-05T19:02:19.835-04:00

My son "Paul Bunyan" surveys our traill ahead over the "Humps" of NC Check out pocket village and their travel adventure search engine where I guest blog on "A Trail of Dreams."

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-44353812348358553462011-10-03T13:12:00.002-04:002011-10-24T14:59:55.958-04:00

"Keep Movin' Nana"takes her granddaughter to Dark Hollow Falls, Shenandoah National Park I really think trails and kids go together. There is something special about taking them on the trail that adds a whole different perspective to the adventure. For me as a hiker who is goal oriented, sometimes I need a little munchkin (as my hubby used to call the little ones) to help me see the bigger

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-16181975856567302712011-09-26T13:31:00.000-04:002011-09-26T13:31:13.115-04:00

There is still room in my class on Women's Long Distance Hiking at the REI in Richmond, Virginia.   To be held this Thursday, September 29 from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Information and register If you would like me to share on this topic or other topics in your area (I am located in VA), please e-mail me for details. I also can guest blog as well. Email:   blissful63(at)gmail(dot)com

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-1555279115489713722011-09-25T23:34:00.000-04:002011-09-25T23:34:10.798-04:00

Chances are, if you have ever hiked for any length of time,you have developed the annoying and many times painful issue called blisters. Blisters develop under the stress of friction or rubbing for a prolonged period of time. It can be exasperated by heat and dampness. I have had blisters in many different places. I have also had blisters that forced me off the trail until they either healed or

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-64827712084700721312011-09-20T21:27:00.000-04:002011-09-20T21:27:13.944-04:00

Each month I will bring you my "surprise" hike of the month, that is, a little known trail or an adventure I undertook that really inspired me. I kick off the "feature" with this unique day hike I found in Shenandoah National Park, in the southern section (PATC Map 11 - Shenandoah National Park South District) - a hike to Lewis Peak. In the video I mistakenly call it "Lewis Mountain" but it is

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-10795224934376596162011-09-16T20:13:00.000-04:002011-09-16T20:13:02.024-04:00

I'm a little early, but since I will be away from a computer and Internet on the actual anniversary date, I wanted to share my summit video taken when my son and I finished our northbound hike of the Appalachian Trail, September 18, 2007 at Katahdin in Maine. A thirty-year dream at its completion. Also, my Trail Journals entry that day.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-6108403942017637592011-09-15T11:47:00.000-04:002011-09-15T11:47:34.346-04:00

The mountains called, and so I went. With the plans waylaid this summer due to unforeseen circumstances, health, weather, and otherwise, I decided on a short Appalachian Trail section through the Three Ridges northbound into Shenandoah National Park. I had not done this part northbound in a number of years, so I thought it would be nice to revisit. Monday, August 29, 2011 From Crabtree

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-76378045969487267122011-09-12T10:38:00.000-04:002011-09-12T10:38:25.408-04:00

Whenever I heard of hikers doing some kind of long distance hiking in one day, I thought they were crazy. I'm not talking about the standard 20 miles one sometimes puts in (in fact I did it a few weeks back on my short section hike I will report on later this week). I'm talking long mega distances like over 30 miles a day benchmark. I thought it was crazy. I knew it would never happen to me. I'm

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-41109016529719478742011-09-08T14:01:00.003-04:002011-09-16T21:10:58.268-04:00

Flooding in Duncannon, PA 9/8/2011 courtesy of Trail Angel Mary Just to let you know, I have ongoing updates of trail conditions as I hear and see them online. They are posted under the Hurricane Irene status by dates. NOTE - Duncannon had severe flooding with clean-up underway as does the Cumberland Valley of PA.   

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-25607260464175543482011-09-05T09:41:00.005-04:002011-09-05T19:29:55.732-04:00

I photographed this bear in a tree in Great Smoky Mountains National Park On hiker forums, questions about eastern black bears always seems to crop up. This year Shenandoah National Park had a bear rip up a hiker's tent at Bearfence Hut. The bear was accustomed to human food in a tent, so even though the hiker did not have food inside, the bear came and tore it up. There were also reports of

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-67247058850681999522011-09-02T16:08:00.001-04:002011-09-02T22:55:35.440-04:00

Appalachian Trail current record-holder Jennifer Pharr Davis shares her passion for the trail - a journey she also calls "a walk in prayer."

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-55209423981031897812011-09-02T13:30:00.008-04:002011-09-30T14:34:44.323-04:00

Hikers: A statement has been issued on 9/1/2011 temporarily closing Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont due to the Hurricane damage. No hiker entrance permitted. This would affect both the Appalachian Trail and the Long Trail. See links below - Green Mountain NF Closure Notice  Green Mountain National Forest Status Report of damage and closures to roads and facilities  Other updates (9/

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-85883977673164274662011-08-28T18:28:00.001-04:002011-08-28T18:31:20.839-04:00

A major blow down on the Appalachian Trail back in 2010 The trail corridor from Pennsylvania to Maine has been pummeled by Hurricane Irene and its associated winds and rain. For sure the trail will have major blow downs, limbs about to fall down, high water in places, and muddy, slick travel. In venturing out, use the utmost care to avoid injury that could sacrifice your time in the

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-66389509107725447772011-08-26T15:07:00.027-04:002011-09-16T21:15:31.969-04:00

8/26/11 14:00 Just saw on White Blaze that Hurricane Irene is closing down the trail. The White Mountain Natonal Forest is closing the entire trail system and so is the AMC huts and other shelter areas. Baxter State Park is also closed at least through Monday. There will be high winds, torrential rains, flash floods and afterwards - blowdowns and trail damage from upper PA through to Maine.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-10997909856506133602011-08-25T21:15:00.005-04:002011-08-26T10:20:47.381-04:00

Blissful in the fog of PA before descending down to Palmerton I felt like tonight I should blog about rain, since the great thru hikers out this year are going to encounter some rain. And not just any rain, but major rains from a tropical system this weekend. It will likely be downpours and strong winds. Heavy stuff. There isn't much weather protection that can keep you and your gear dry

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-125094772534918882011-08-21T22:46:00.004-04:002012-01-26T10:45:10.239-05:00

The Appalachian Trail crosses the busy Bear Mountain Bridge in New York State Just recently the hiking forums received the disturbing news that the body of a thru hiker "Stonewall" had been found near Cow Camp Gap shelter in Virginia. The authorities deemed it "suspicious" but nothing else has been brought to light yet. And so I was in church today and several came up to me, asking if I

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-33608180373797609682011-08-19T12:26:00.000-04:002011-08-19T12:26:06.617-04:00

Getting used to becoming a bit more techno with this, but I have finally posted my video finish at Harper's Ferry, West Virginia on You Tube and can share it here.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-5485355405897797092011-08-16T09:33:00.002-04:002011-08-16T09:39:16.396-04:00

Into the woods Along a portion of the Continental Divide Trail Yellowstone National Park  adventures abound. On a rainy day at the Mammoth Hot Springs Visitor Center, my husband asks if I wanted to check out the backcountry camping office. I was surprised as I figured we would not be doing any further hikes after the Sangre de Cristo trip. But the park ranger offered us something we

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-6549627043753023492011-07-31T19:39:00.002-04:002011-08-14T21:45:05.174-04:00

Jenn Pharr Davis at Springer Mountain, GA  At 3:26 PM this afternoon, a true Olympic athlete was born. No, she will not get the gold medal, stand on a podium or have the National Anthem sung in honor of her accomplishment. But Jennifer Pharr Davis is still a champion, having completed an epic journey. As a supported hiker, she posted the FASTEST time EVER to finish the Appalachian Trail,

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-55446117545344622532011-07-26T20:26:00.004-04:002011-08-14T22:27:36.956-04:00

The Sand Ramp Trail wanders from Great Sand Dunes to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains As I mentioned in my previous blogs, we saw our plans to tackle both the John Muir Trail or the Long Trail scuttled due to health concerns. But we both still liked to backpack and wanted a one to two day adventure during our trip out west this summer. A fellow hiker, Mags with ultralight backpacking, told us

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-70805689398744433172011-06-30T20:55:00.001-04:002011-08-14T22:09:14.560-04:00

A picture of my son taken the last time we went to Yellowstone back in 1997 Destinations change. Plans change. As much as we want to set things in stone, they are more in clay that can easily get washed away at the first rainstorm. When I was out hiking the AT, I knew better than to try and map out my day to day progress ahead of time. Inevitably something would come up, usually when I

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-85252236027187706992011-06-20T09:45:00.003-04:002011-06-20T15:25:32.202-04:00

I have been looking through this PCT blog to see what others are struggling with as they head through the snows in the Sierras this year. This hiker has some great video clips and photography, having just come through Forester Pass and Mt Whitney.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-67150888062154652802011-06-10T22:38:00.007-04:002011-08-14T22:25:28.800-04:00

My son, Paul Bunyan, hangs out at one of our resupply points NOBO in '07 - the Post Office at Unionville, NY Resupply options vary greatly northbound vs southbound. Which is why its better if you have a good plan and a good trail guide to help you out. I used the ALDHA (Appalachian Trail Long Distance Hikers) companion to assist with my resupply points both north and south. It contained

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-4209851490816496962011-06-07T16:31:00.000-04:002011-06-07T16:31:45.870-04:00

Plowing Tioga Road, Yosemite National Park, late May 2011. They still don't know when the road will open as of June 7th. Our destination for this summer's hike starting July 7th was slated to be the John Muir Trail, the most scenic trail one can do, spanning the high Sierras in California. We set up for it way back in January through the Yosemite National Park lottery system (which had to be

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-18796328576749576532011-05-30T22:18:00.000-04:002011-05-30T22:18:23.710-04:00

Hikers stopped by at our annual picnic held at Smith Roach Gap in Shenandoah National Park to enjoy some food and relaxation on a beautiful summer day.   Here I am with my hubby, Steve "Papa Bliss" as we served up food. A good many hikers stayed with us all afternoon. One said it was like a Sunday to her, and that meant a lot to us! We enjoy hosting this event every year for the hikers and

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-60272229254517923762011-05-20T09:55:00.017-04:002011-11-22T23:04:58.131-05:00

Here my feet straddle two states. I have had three sprains on the left and two on the right over the years. And I still hiked the trail in my Brooks Adrenaline ASR trail runners. Ankles seem to be a big cause for concern out on the trail. Either receiving a sprain on the trail or having "weak" ankles from a previous injury or sport. I have had both. I suffered a severe ankle sprain, both what

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-61659952811105093312011-05-17T09:17:00.006-04:002011-05-17T09:33:44.049-04:00

Yesterday up at Beagle Gap in Shenandoah National Park, I had the honor and enjoyment of sharing in my hike with WVIR Channel 29 News out of Charlottesville, VA. Here I am with news reporter Jennifer Von Reuter who came with a cameraman to conduct it, film me walking the trail at Beagle Gap (yes, it was raining! What is the AT without rain!) and also grabbed some shots on the front porch of

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-69157654216644442572011-05-08T20:37:00.006-04:002011-05-08T20:55:38.370-04:00

What began as a section hike in Shenandoah National Park southbound in the fall of 2008 has turned to a completed hike of the trail from Maine to Georgia! The hike was done over the course of several spring and fall hikes, culminating in 70% of the journey hiked in the summer and fall of 2010, including the summit of Katahdin in July 1 and a summit walk of Springer Mt in Georgia in early

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-77030758957678976802011-04-13T15:42:00.005-04:002011-04-13T15:54:40.779-04:00

This sign on the AT says it allHeading south once more, this time starting in Delaware Water Gap, PA where I left off last fall before heading to southern VA. Heading on this trek to Harper's Ferry, WVA to complete my southbound of the entire Appalachian Trail. I am keeping an online trail journal, but not certain how often I will be able to update it while hiking.So new adventures waiting and

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-87613868964485303762011-03-27T21:55:00.009-04:002011-03-31T13:07:07.794-04:00

Picture from last year's Hiker Picnic we held up in Shenandoah on Memorial Day WeekendBelieve it or not, there is an ongoing battle right now on White Blaze with regards to Trail Magic and Hiker feeds. Some are vehemently opposed to giving food to hikers on the AT. They say they are on "vacation". They don't need people giving them handouts. They say there are people starving and that we should

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-35022094045947543112011-03-02T22:13:00.008-05:002011-03-02T22:25:26.775-05:00

Some photo memories of our start at Amicalola Falls State Park, March 5th, 2007 On Springer Mountain, Georgia, northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-27623404463959104372011-02-24T14:11:00.010-05:002011-07-27T10:43:16.229-04:00

Day One on the Approach Trail to Springer Mtn, GA March 5, 2007 Yes, there is nothing like the solitude of a wilderness experience. The flora. The fauna. The views. The fresh air. The ability to leave homes and cities, and smog and Internet and live free with just a backpack and a few bare essentials. But there are people. Yes, the trail is still filled with people. People of all walks of

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-77862637383985562622011-02-20T22:05:00.010-05:002011-02-28T19:00:41.479-05:00

(last update Feb 28, 2011)As I write this, several areas in Virginia are burning due to the extraordinary conditions yesterday of high winds, dry conditions, and litter and limb debris. These wildfires are forcing the closure of the Appalachian Trail in two areas so far - Catawba to Dragon's Tooth (just north of Roanoke) and in the northern section of Shenandoah National Park (check the NPS

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-64748356094806257412011-02-18T21:35:00.006-05:002011-02-18T22:21:12.238-05:00

Everyone has their reasons for hiking. I go for relaxation. To accomplish a goal. To ready myself for that next BIG long distance hike in my future plans. These were all on my mind as I ventured out today on my weekly hike (I have been trying to go hiking up in Shenandoah National Park weekly to prepare myself for my upcoming hikes this April and July). Today I started out near Skyland, heading

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-39823512351097151402011-02-07T21:32:00.010-05:002011-02-17T14:50:09.301-05:00

Some of our supplies we used in '07 for our food maildrops.Food glorious food. Hot sausage and mustard. Yeah, that kind of food would be good for a hungry hiker. And hikers do get HUNGRY. Its the nature of the high level of activity. Your body is using lots of calories, and in colder weather, calories to stay warm too. Muscles are getting torn to shreds by constant abuse and the need of good

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-17125732299938609442011-01-26T21:29:00.007-05:002011-02-08T22:16:11.706-05:00

Okay, so what DO you bring for a sleeping bag and sleeping pad when starting a Southbound (SOBO) in late June or July? Or Northbound (NOBO) in early March? One thing about the AT you need to know. One must be prepared for the unexpected. Unexpected temperature changes. Precipitation, anywhere from snow and sleet in March NOBO to sleet, hail, and t-storms SOBO. I have seen many hikers on forums

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-85425918005965942312011-01-14T20:46:00.021-05:002012-01-18T09:54:30.276-05:00

Beginning the AT Southbound, via the Abol Slide Trail, at Baxter State Park, Maine 2010 Welcome! I've decided to kick off 2011 with a Appalachian Trail (AT) series on Southbound (SOBO) vs Northbound (NOBO) hikes. Since I have done both and will finish my SOBO hike this spring, I felt it a good idea to share some thoughts about each area that I hiked, as well as gear selections, food, prep, the

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-23531967242429220402010-12-31T21:48:00.009-05:002010-12-31T22:14:09.278-05:00

Wow. 2010 saw me on a wild adventure AT-wise I did not plan to do. I had begun section hiking the AT in my home state of Virgina, as you can see from previous posts here on this blog and on trail journals. But some writing projects fell through and the time opened up for me to tackle a major portion of trail southbound this past summer and fall. So by May I quickly had to put things in gear for

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-61548981125048761322010-04-07T21:22:00.005-04:002010-04-07T21:29:23.459-04:00

My life has opened up right now for me to try a southbound attempt at the AT starting at Katahdin in Maine, July 1 (I completed a northbound hike of the entire At in 2007). I am currently hiking all of Virgnia in the hopes of finishing this venture by mid November in time for my hubby's birthday. But everything is contingent on ankle and knees cooperating, along with the mental aspects, etc.To

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-46636843947980301652010-03-05T21:07:00.002-05:002010-03-05T21:23:17.853-05:00

Three years ago this evening I was holed up in my tent near the Springer Mtn shelter, battling 40 mph winds, the first night of what was to be a six month adventure on the Appalachian Trail. See my trail journal entry that marked the beginning of the journey which tried spirit and soul, and yes, legs and back. Although I must say, we had a beautiful day to ascend the mountains to the southern

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-51993326233224896172010-01-22T20:54:00.008-05:002010-01-22T21:43:07.832-05:00

I realized I had not yet updated my fall section hike on the AT to include the latter part I decided to finish a week later after recuperating from foot injuries. Here is the report of the hike, taken from my written journal.October 21, 2009From: Rockfish GapTo: Campsite south of Humpback Rocks Picnic area13.2 milesI was going to finish the hike of this section on the weekend, but with bad

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-26308480036634371912009-12-08T14:08:00.003-05:002009-12-08T14:20:59.047-05:00

Bluebird says - "Life isn't over till you're six foot under, and if you're on this side of the dirt and breathing, you're alive! So, for God and your own sake - LIVE!"Wow! Powerful words to begin this book that chronicles a journey along the Appalachian Trail. I followed Bluebird's journal in 2006-7 as a precursor for my own Appalachian Trail hike, and I was thrilled that she decided to publish

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-78139631478786179862009-10-16T10:24:00.009-04:002009-10-16T10:57:27.178-04:00

At the start - James River, elev 735Rocky Row area overlooking James River, elevation 2992October 11, 2009James River to Rice Mtn13.1 milesOkay, so I thought I could get away with another section hike on my pair of trail runners that I knew were close to biting the dust. Hoped to do James River to Rockfish Gap. Trip started okay Sunday, though being out of shape with hiking is quite evident when

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-29862849496000292102009-10-10T11:44:00.006-04:002009-10-10T12:17:49.568-04:00

This late summer ramble took us up the Red Creek Trail in the Dolly Sods Wilderness of West Virginia. Though most trail junctions have sign posts, after that, you are on your own with a map and compass (you can get a trail map published by the Army Corps of Engineers for free at the Seneca Rocks Visitor Center). At times it proved to be interesting navigation-wise as we tried to locate Little

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-51823287305547801922009-09-16T20:09:00.007-04:002009-09-16T20:23:47.291-04:00

Putting a pebble from Springer Mountain, Georgia on the sign atop Mt. Katahdin, MaineThis Friday, September 18th, marks the two year completion of the entire Appalachian Trail for both my son and myself. To mark the occasion, we got together before my computer and finished writing the book that chronicles the journey. I need only spell check and revise it, but I hope to have it out for eager

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-64715639075142125542009-09-15T20:42:00.008-04:002009-09-15T21:14:33.700-04:00

At last I am updating my hiking blog to include a review of my summer, 2009 rambles. While the one I highlight in this post is not a backpacking venture, I was able to see parts of the Pacific Crest Trail and spent the day climbing a snow covered Lassen Peak while discovering the challenges, and yes, the fear of an ice-covered trail. This was new for me. Not that I haven't done a snow-covered

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-84481622602483385672009-06-03T19:23:00.005-04:002009-06-03T21:56:24.206-04:00

For the first time this year, hubby Skipper and I decided to host a "Hiker Picnic" to welcome thru hikers to Shenandoah National Park at Smith Roach Gap (near Hightop Hut), not far from the park entrance at Swift Run Gap. We cooked up hot dogs, beans, had chips, brownies and cookies and got to meet 18 hikers out doing the trail or sectioning. Heard plenty of stories and shared some stories of my

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-10027073381666497552009-05-13T22:38:00.009-04:002009-05-13T23:19:36.106-04:00

April 14, 2009Cove Mt Shelter to Wilson Creek Shelter13.7 milesOvercast, mistHad a pretty good night with only Signage and me in the shelter. Rained most of the night, so glad we were safe inside. Woke to overcast, foggy conditions with a light mist, but all part of the AT adventure as are the sunny and bright days too. Donned rain jackets and pack covers and trekked onward. Only had a few short

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-33546760532374236942009-05-04T21:46:00.007-04:002009-05-04T22:18:42.835-04:00

Signage and Blissful ready to embark on our week long section hike of the AT. April 11, 2009James River to Marble Spring Campsite7.9 milesCloudy, windWe picked up Signage from her car at the Daleville Kroger and drive to our starting point at the James River footbridge, a unique structure built solely for AT hikers to cross the wide James River instead of sharing a bridge with busy traffic. The

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-52109477065398768262009-03-04T10:30:00.003-05:002009-03-04T10:47:43.422-05:00

I was getting ready to head out on my own "adventure of a lifetime" (to quote the title of one of my favorite hiking books - Ed Garvey's original). March 5th is the actual date, but since tomorrow I will be gone most of the day, I thought I would pause and reflect on that monumental time when I forsook all to venture along some wilderness path marked by white blazes. If you ever have the chance

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-49279808291983066262008-11-15T15:15:00.005-05:002008-11-15T15:40:02.565-05:00

Oct 25, 2008From Smith Roach Gap to Loft Mtn campground; 14 miles With my hubby serving as the gear guy, Mercy and I decided to slack today in the rain. Used a day pack with a rain cover, but it got soaked anyway (forcing me to realize I need a new pack cover for it). Skipper hiked with us for the first few miles then turned around to fetch the car and secure a campsite at Loft Mountain. I met up

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-32525790997400548442008-11-10T21:54:00.009-05:002008-11-10T22:46:41.847-05:00

Thorton Gap and Mary's RockOct. 22From Pass Mtn Hut to Hawksbill Gap; 14.3 milesVery windy night last night - hard to sleep. Awoke at one time to find the back of my tent had blown down. Had to crawl out of the tent and pound the stake back into the hard ground. Still, was able to get an early morning start. On the way to Thorton Gap, a determined doe blocked my path. She would not be dissuaded

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-41097428564812093232008-10-29T14:46:00.010-04:002008-10-29T21:43:40.238-04:00

I had the great opportunity to hike with fellow White Blazer Mercy from the Florida Keys in what began an eight day adventure section hiking Shenandoah National Park. I must admit I was a bit apprehensive as this would be the first time I would carry all my own gear. What follows is a day by day journal of the events, divided into north, central, and south districts.October 19, 2008From Rt 522 to

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-57099642781500546742008-10-17T10:35:00.005-04:002009-01-06T15:08:39.682-05:00

It's that time of year - the hikers seem to be massing near Shenandoah to enjoy the brilliant fall colors - and yes, I will too. A fellow hiker and I will thru hike Shenandoah coming up, taking it all in and enjoying each and every day. I will post about our day-by-day experience when I return. But I had the opportunity yesterday to have breakfast with a thru hiker I met on the trail back in '07

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-29589726702469167022008-10-12T19:35:00.005-04:002008-10-29T15:26:07.514-04:00

The annual Gathering put on by ALDHA has come and gone, and we were fortunate to attend this years events, held near Pipestem resort in beautiful West Virgina. I had heard about the event via the White Blaze forum, but did not really know what to expect. Come to find out, it's really like a glorified hiker's conference. It lacks some of the silliness and good ol' time at Trail Days in Damascus

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-52927444659024863992008-09-21T20:53:00.009-04:002008-09-21T21:53:47.663-04:00

We journeyed to Ramseys Draft for a planned two night, three day backpacking trip. The last time we came here, I had just recovered from an ankle injury and found the terrain difficult with hard river crossings and a multitude of blow downs to negotiate.Not this time! We found the river nearly completely dry, which was hard to imagine. The crossings were nonexistent (rocks in a dry bed), and we

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-58165778203851807262008-09-18T09:30:00.001-04:002008-09-18T09:35:53.306-04:00

One year ago today, Paul Bunyan and Blissful completed a lifelong dream, hiking the entire Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine, 2,175 miles. We ended this day atop Mt Katahdin in Maine on a beautiful, crisp, clear day. The memories are great, the goal complete, and now the future awaits.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-56749628953033874142008-08-27T11:25:00.005-04:002008-08-27T11:40:50.402-04:00

Thought I would bring you up-to-date on what is happening newsworthy-wise, and it's exciting.Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine has a clip from one of our trail stories about hypothermia in their September issue. Scroll down until you come to "Mountain Madness". On the left side there is also a picture of the three of us. And yes, that is Skipper in a sportkilt which he loves to wear hiking in hot

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-54909242744618948202008-07-23T20:47:00.010-04:002008-11-15T08:52:58.768-05:00

Skipper and I took a few days to enjoy backpacking the Dolly Sods region of West Virginia.Blueberries were ripe and the temperatures were downright cold for it being July (in fact, down below 40 degrees one night!) But it was a beautiful time to enjoy a region unlike much of what you see in the south, reminiscent of places farther north.We hiked to Red Creek where Skipper took the plunge down a

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-34531797500549330772008-05-13T15:24:00.003-04:002008-11-15T08:52:59.011-05:00

I just discovered that a new article on our hike is now up online, published by the Greene County Record.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-69313564008673625992008-04-29T19:30:00.004-04:002008-11-15T08:52:59.488-05:00

Well, there is no reason to have hiked over 2,000 miles and not at least share about it! And that is just what we did at our neighborhood library last week, giving a ninety minute presentation complete with over 200 pictures of our AT odyssey. It was a great deal of fun, and we had a lot of interesting questions and comments. It made me realize that all those little talks we gave at the AMC huts

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-67797241564110026832008-03-31T16:18:00.005-04:002008-04-08T15:40:59.680-04:00

Wow, do I love photos, especially of the trail. I am getting a folder of pictures ready for a presentation on the trail at the Greene County Library in Stanardsville, Virginia on April 24. It's fun reliving the adventure through the photos I have taken.To the right I have posted the photo album for the next section of the AT we hiked last year - from Unicoi Gap to Erwin, TN. Lots of pictures, but

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-1808274025855737142008-03-22T15:16:00.002-04:002008-11-15T08:52:59.928-05:00

Being Easter weekend - Happy Easter! - I wanted to share this photo I took just off the Appalachian Trail in northern Pennsylvania during our hike. A gentle reminder of the great love God has shown by way of the cross and now the miracle of the resurrection. And a powerful reminder even in far away places that God is there.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-66887600668385731962008-03-04T13:21:00.005-05:002008-11-15T08:53:00.267-05:00

Hard to believe that a year ago to this day, we were heading to Georgia to begin a six month adventure on the Applachian Trail. Then the start on March 5, 2007 - on a clear crisp Georgia day. The stories are many as are the memories, and ones we will very much cherish. To see my entries marking that day, check out my trail journal.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-49469835272075255072008-02-13T13:54:00.005-05:002008-11-15T08:53:00.487-05:00

Any AT hikers out there - long distance, sectioners, thru hikers, if you need anything like the mail drop listing I have posted here on my blog or other information on services, gear, etc. I will gladly send it via e-mail. Just let me know by e-mailing me via my profile page. Some have tried to copy the information and are running into difficulty. Sometimes it helps to get info (and yes,

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-48653704210738712232008-02-06T20:17:00.002-05:002008-11-15T08:53:00.731-05:00

Paul Bunyan resting in front of the Unionville Post Office after receiving our mail drop. While many long distance hikers choose to buy along the way, Paul Bunyan and I did a combination of mail drops and buying (like cheese, bread, chips) which fit our needs well. At times my husband, Skipper, delivered our boxes to us. We chose a combination to help supply nutrition and to mail necessities (

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-23144802612346893002008-02-02T15:54:00.002-05:002008-11-15T08:53:00.969-05:00

The View from Springer Mountain, Georgia Okay, I am getting it bad. SPRINGER FEVER. I was out today running (I have been getting into a running program of sorts to try and maintain a little of the conditioning I gained on the trail). The weather is sunny and pleasant. Birds are singing. A waft of smoke from a neighbor's chimney tickles my nostrils.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-48728736843486712242008-02-01T09:23:00.001-05:002008-11-15T08:53:01.148-05:00

Paul Bunyan feasting on the special hiker lunch at Mountain Meadows Lodge, VermontVermontBennington - we did not stay here but Paul Bunyan was able to hitch into Bennington for supplies. Many hikers do use this town. Manchester Center - a tourist town with lots of tourist type shops, outlets, etc. We stayed at Suttons Place which worked out fine (no Internet or laundry). But there is no AC in

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-47679494121208713402008-01-31T21:17:00.002-05:002008-11-15T08:53:01.285-05:00

"Church Hostel" - Delaware Water Gap, PAVirginia - Part BSince we were close to home and also did this section with my husband at other times, we did not use the services. But we have heard of some excellent services along the way to Harper's Ferry that you might consider.Blue Ridge Parkway - many hikers rave about the Dutch Haus B&B that offered a free lunch to hikers last year and reasonable

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-54687734992360876802008-01-21T20:58:00.002-05:002008-11-15T08:53:01.480-05:00

The "Hiker Hostel" Dahlonega, GeorgiaI was reading on White Blaze of a request for a listing of places where hikers enjoyed staying along the Appalachian Trail. I decided to go ahead and post the places where we stayed, along with comments on services, etc. This post will cover Georgia to Virginia.GeorgiaDahlonega - The Hiker Hostel - bunks, great breakfast included, laundry for a small fee,

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-36592486424383286972008-01-18T22:02:00.000-05:002008-11-15T08:53:01.662-05:00

What does a handwritten piece of paper have to do with the love of writing?It is a simple, homemade sign I made at the completion of my hike atop Mt. Katahdin, giving honor and praise to my husband who stood by me through it all. But it reveals something more as well. Besides walking with my feet, I must also acknowledge the author side of me that thinks and writes. I have written and published

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-2733565452704053772008-01-14T19:29:00.000-05:002008-11-15T08:53:01.910-05:00

I just celebrated my birthday back on January 12th and although I did not have a birthday on the trail, my son, Paul Bunyan did. The day before his birthday was an absolutely awful day for us. We were crossing Baldpate Mtn in Maine with the worst weather of wind, rain, and fog. The rocks were so slippery it took us forever to cross them, it seemed. I felt so bad for him as he was scared and so

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-9362310915420627852008-01-08T20:55:00.000-05:002008-11-15T08:53:02.061-05:00

I write this with a heavy heart. I, among many other hikers, are mouring the loss of one of our own - a young hiker, out for a walk on New Years Day in Georgia near the AT, only to be senselessly killed by a deranged man. It's really hard as we like to think of a trail like the Appalachian Trail, carved among the wonders of God's creation, safe from such horrific evil. But it is not. This is

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-23519053217798428142008-01-02T22:04:00.000-05:002008-11-15T08:53:02.286-05:00

Okay, I will admit it. I shed tears when the hour drew to an end.What a banner year 2007 was for me.Completing the Appalachian Trail with my son.A multitude of published books.Good health. Great friends. Awesome God we serve.Just to name a few. Of course, I always wonder what the new year will bring. I hope to sell a few more books this year. Complete a book on my trail journey. We have already

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-41465974421996999622007-12-27T21:30:00.000-05:002008-11-15T08:53:02.480-05:00

Well, it was a different Christmas for us. The night of December 24th, I developed a horrific stomach flu that lasted until the afternoon of Christmas Day. Needless to say, I spent the holiday in bed. I have never done that in my life. But as I was there, very sick and uncomfortable, a vision came to me, of the picture above. Why this picture in particular? It was taken after a similar occurence,

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-71724546875581071112007-12-24T12:47:00.001-05:002008-11-15T08:53:02.596-05:00

A Merry Christmas scene from the trail. There was nothing like seeing the pines frosted over by newly fallen snow along the Appalachian Trail. Even though the calendar read late March, I did feel like I was strolling through a winter wonderland in mid December. It's wonderful reflecting on the time we had hiking the trail this past year. And I can't help thinking what the years ahead may yield.

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-44939690402522882482007-12-12T20:43:00.001-05:002008-11-15T08:53:02.704-05:00

Could this be us...in the future?WHAT?Well, we just got a great idea last night as we talked. I have been moaning to Skipper how much hiking the trail would help him physically, etc., and how I wish he could have hiked the whole thing with us. I have seen my back helped. I have dropped three dress sizes. And I guess with the warm weather we've been experiencing, I was thinking about my start last

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-86794297574663036842007-11-21T12:09:00.000-05:002008-11-15T08:53:02.822-05:00

Wow, do I have so much to be thankful for in 2007. This has been a blesed year what with the completion of the Appalachian Trail and also four books that have been published. But in reality it's more than that. Without knowing Christ, the strength of God in my life, none of these things would have come to pass. So all these blessings, these avenues of thanksgiving, really boil down to the

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-40381759768566867522007-11-18T12:41:00.000-05:002008-11-15T08:53:02.965-05:00

I just read the blog of a writing friend I had met at a writer's conference a few years back and how she is now suffering with a malignant brain tumor. The news is not good. It made me consider death. Surrounded by family and the things of this world, I found death to be frightening and unable to be understood. Maybe because I lacked a deeper understanding of my Creator who made me. But when I

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20442534.post-48643989922982576412007-11-04T16:34:00.000-05:002008-11-15T08:53:03.168-05:00

Good news- today an article on our hike appeared in the Sunday Daily Progress Lifestyles section - the newspaper in Charlottesville, Virginia. Except for a minor error on the "white triangles" of the AT - (yikes!) I thought the reporter did a great job. Wish you could see the pictures that went along with the story (we had two pages worth) but you can at least read the article here. The picture

Lauralee Blisshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11923463083025047230noreply@blogger.com0