Attack, Attack

Who says one can't get attacked?

I feel like I am. First it's been recurrent tendonitis in my ankle I hurt two years ago. Then a person close to me who doesn't understand at all why I am doing what I am doing with my life (and who I dreaded telling in the first place - but it had to be done). And then a bad case if sciatica last night that prevented sleep. Along with the internal jibes of - you REALLY think you're gonna hike this whole thing? You spent money on food prep, gear etc and it will all be wasted. You won't even be able to do the Approach trail to Springer let alone the entire 2000 mile plus AT!!

And then came a very simple but wise answer on a post in White Blaze - a forum for hikers. It was amazing, really, from WandererKMK.

"Blissful - My Beautiful tiny Round Irish Grandma used to say you know you are on the right path when the devil trys to lead you astray.... Every time I start to worry my gear isn't right, my training is too slow or the little daily worries try to pull me down - I think about her. "

So all I could think was - this MUST be the right path. I have a confirmation of it...from getting attacked. And so I can rejoice and have confidence, even in the midst of trials. And continue on, with perseverence, the race marked out for me, keeping my eyes focused on Jesus, the author and finisher of my faith.

Gear Comments

I spent a blustery cold day on a trail last weekend while the guys were on a BSA camp out. Yes, a day hike but with a loaded backpack. I try when I can to walk with the backpack and get my system used to the idea that this is the way it's gonna be for five and a half months. Hubby went to get me a few other packs by Granite Gear for me to try - those didn't work either with my finicky back. So I am still planning on taking my Lowe, but will endeavor to keep the interior pack weight as low as possible. I'm happy though with the clothing I've chosen, esp trying out gear on these walks and hikes. Glad, for instance, I will be taking a balaclava after nearly being swept off the mountain in the biting cold wind and feeling my face and neck grow numb. And tried my Yak Trax walkers in the ice and snow and they worked like a charm. While my gear load will be heavy to start, I'm happy with it but will be all the more glad to shed it all by Damascus.

Food Prep Work in High Gear

Well, prep work is in high gear here. Skipper, my hubby, gave me a great cookbook to begin food prep - it's called The Appalachian Trail Food Planner which he bought from the ATC ( Appalachian Trail Conservancy). In there are great ideas for drying and preparing foods so one doesn't live on mashed potatoes and Stove Top Stuffing. The recipes are nutritious and easy. Our countertop is filled with all kinds of nuts, whole grains, fruits etc to make the energy bars, granola, GORP varieties, and other recipes. We've been drying beans, peas, carrots, carrot shavings, dried beef, beef paste, chicken. And the freezer is getting full with everything I've baked. And hubby will take up the reins and continue making goodies and mailing them to our drops. I know with healthy food out there we will have better energy reserves and a better chance to succeed, which is the ultimate goal.

Another Year....

Another year, another birthday, but a nice day with my family who treated me to some great hiking gear and dinner at the Olive Garden. I received maps of Maine, NH and VT which I was lacking, an AT data book, a book for planning meals on the AT, a AT license plate cover, a wicking AT shirt, my Mont Bell thermawrap jacket, and a warm weather sleeping bag. Great stuff! Not to mention the wonderful wishes from family and friends to round out a great day. :)

A Bummer

Well, just as I am revving up for the thru - doing long walks (up to 4 miles), getting my gear together, planning drops, I get completely sidetracked by the worst case of a respiratory illness that I have had in a long time. Boy it was bad. Here I got a flu shot and then end up in bed with a fever, coughing, a severe sore throat, chest pain, weakness - man, why did I get the flu shot anyway? A real bummer as I so want to continue getting ready. Thank goodness I was able to get my two Christmas novellas sent off to the publisher before it hit. Today I am a bit better but still real weak. All I can hope for is that this is building up my immune system real good before I hit the trail.

But a piece of great news - a fellow hiker made me a small little hiking sack pack that I can carry around town- is mailing it to me today. An early birthday gift! I was so thankful for that, really did brighten up an otherwise totally punky and depressing weekend.