morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2007-05-15
To: 7 days to go...
Miles today: 0.0

I have 7 days to go...I wrote the last entry on a Sunday night late...somehow the 10 was 9 and now a day after the last entry I have 7 days. I think me being out of school for the last week has really made my mind stop thinking. So Now it is really 7 days...NO REALLY!!!!I went and got a few things I forgot about, and I have to send off my package to Millinocket. (AT Lodge)Well to the rest of my insanity I guess it will be all gone on the trail.Watch out for me. If I seem lost or confused about my mileage then, just rest assured that I¢ll figure out what I need when I need it..Thanks¢¦Later¢¦
Date: 2007-05-20
To: 2 DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

I'm at two days, and I think I have over used myself. I have not stopped since Thursday. Not for Trip stuff, but for doing things with friends. I had a big Graduation Party to go to for Mel, someone I've come to have great respect for in the last 14 years. She has truly grown into a beautiful spirit. I went Kayaking all day Sat. with a group of friends who I have helpped see the beauty in the backwaters of Mississippi. I was supose to have dinner with a friend, but he never called back so my Bestest Friend Mallisa took me. I went out to the club to see myself off, with some friends. Today I went rock hunting with Nell and Alice, two of my best kayaking buds. It was my first time to do this, but it was a blast. Both of these ladies are amazing I am truly thankful that I met them while kayaking my first time(ok I think it was like 1999 or 2000). Tonight it is off to church (I go to an alternitive church that loves everyone)to send myself off. Tomorrow I have lunch and dinner with friends and that should do it. I'll only have to get last min. things together. Call all my things to make sure reservations are still on track. Put mystuff together for my trip up on the train. And last Clean Up My Room (this is important). Well Later....
Date: 2007-05-22
To: Bye Bye
Miles today: 0.0

Today is it. I leave at 5:44 pm. It feels just like yeasterday that I was hearing about the Appalachian Trail, and now I get to hike it. I don't know what to expect, but I know it will be amazing. I did here the trail up Katahdin was not yet open, and may not be when I get there. I might have to hike south, and come back a day it is open. Also I realized something? I have never, and I mean never put up my tent in the rain. I have put up the dryfly and made sure it did not leak, but not everything. I guess I'll learn as I go. I also found this cool way to get the slack out of the Slapstraps, they tend to make you sink closer to the ground as the night goes on. I'll get a picture of it when I'm out there and you'll see. Well thanks to everyone: Toi (sis), Bette (sis), Shandy (bro), (family) grandma, Aunt Kathy and Uncle Bill, Aunt Susie and Uncle Marty, Uncle Chris and Aunt Dianne, Uncle Bill and Aunt Sharon, Aunt Pat and Uncle Larry, Buffy and Christine, Darla, Ryan and Kris, Mike and Danielle (your in my prayers), Audrey and Scott, Chad, Tricia and Troy, Aunt Peggy, Gail, Cheryl, Jamie, Ray, all the kids (friends) Thobias, Mallisa, Pam, Mary, Mary, and Mary (lol) Donnie, Preston, Hollis, all my SHFC Family. (Hikers) TJ, Jamie, Amazonwoman, Don, WB, everyone who sent me a kind word....THANKS. If you'd like e-mail me at jkashley1234@yahoo.com to keep in touch. Later
Date: 2007-05-24
To: In Sandusky
Miles today: 0.0

Hello!!!!! I got to Sandusky this morning at 3am which was 3hrs late. This was good though. I had to call around to find a hotel because I don't leave here until 4 in the morning tomorrow. At first I couldn't find one to take me that early, but a really nice lady told me to check with Comfort Inn- I then used my very awesome BlackBerry phone to surf the net and found this one (very nice people 2 only charge me for 1 night). I went to Cedar Point and rode almost everything in 4 hrs. So now I'm back at the hotel relaxing, and updating my journal on this awesome phone.(I just hope it stays that way). I'm off to Boston in the morn, so I'll see you ....Later!!!!
Date: 2007-05-26
To: boston south station 
Miles today: 0.0

after a long train ride I made it to Boston. I was on the train from 7am on the 25th until right now at 3am on the 26th. Now its a wait for the bus at 8am. (or 545) if there is room????It was a nice train ride though, except for the fact I couldn't stop eating. It was all crap, but there was nothing more to do. I met some really great people on this one. A group of people in the lounge car talking religion, a guy (forgot his name'but cool) on his way to see about his future career. It made me think about what I'm in for when. I get back. (if you read this sign my guestbook, so I can say hello). I also met a great lady named Betty, she is one of those prole in the world who is trying to make a differance. Well ill let know how Portland is when I get there.oh yeah, did I tell you that my package with all my gear has still not made it to the AT Lodge??? Thank you USPS for scaring me at this point, I mean its not like my whole life for the next 6 months is not in that box!!!!! God will work it out! LATER.....
Date: 2007-05-27
To: Portland
Miles today: 0.0

I made it to Portland yesterday. Now I'm at the bus station about to leave to Bangor. Portland was really nice. I would love to live in a place like this. Everyone has been nice. I did go out to a local club last night met some really nice people who offer to help me out if I ever need it up here in the north. I have 4 days now!!!! Later.
Date: 2007-05-27
To: Bangor
Miles today: 0.0

I'm in Bangor now. It is a nice litte town. I could see myself leaving somewhere like this or Portland they are really beautiful. I went to Sea Dog for lunch and had Crab Stuffed Haddock. It was really good, but the tast of the haddock tasted like eggs. LOL. I walked around town for a whilel and went to Epic Sports, really cool place. The hotel I'm at us right across the street, The Charles Inn, if you ever go to Bangor then check it out. Later.....
Date: 2007-05-29
To: Millinocket
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

Here I am in Millinocket. I'm staying at the AT Lodge, a really good place. Paul and Jamie are the owners and have been a real help. They also own the Cafe' which is a great place to eat as well. My package has not shown up yet. So the plan is to go ahead to Katahdin Stream Campground tomorrow, after checking the Post Office. Paul and Jamie will let me barrow a sleeping bag and a stove until I either get my package this week before I head out, or I might have to have it shipped to Monson(?). We will see. If it doesn't ever show I'll have to buy new stuff, and wait for my insurance from the Post Office to give me my money back. Lets just hope it shows. A word of wisdom,"Don't ship your stuff", put it in your pack, and take the chance of the check-in at the bus, train, or plane check-in. Well I hope everyone is well.Later.Ok...Update...I got my package...YESSSSSS. It was in the back of the post office...they put it back there for some reason.????...Later..
Date: 2007-05-30
To: Going to Baxter
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: scattered clouds

I'm about to leave Millinocket going to Baxter State Park. They Say that the Hunt might be open on the 1st, Put some prayers in for all us SOBO's. I met Chris Cook last night, and a really cool couple who've done alot of outdoors stuff like ride bikes across the US. Their retired so they have the time. I really do thank everyone helping me out, or who have helped me out on this journey, and pray that many blessings come your way. And if your in Millinocket I say stay at the AT Lodge its a great place, and Paul and Jamie are doing us a great service. Talk to you all. Later...
Date: 2007-05-31
From: KSC

To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: light rain

So here it is, I didn't want to update because of the news I bring. Well I hiked up Katahdin on the 31st, hiked out on the 1st like planned. I made it to Abol campground in good time, I didn't feel bad, or push myself. Then I headed to the One hundrand mile wilderness. Ok I must say I wasn't ready for this kind of hiking. I see now why people start in GA. I've hike trails down south and they are flat (up and down mountains, but flat). Anyone reading this It is an understatment to say that Maine is nothing but roots, rocks, large rocks, and marsh land. This would have all been cool until I stepped on about the million + root and slip went my leg. I didn't fall, but I did manage to twist my leg. I didn't feel the pain really that afternoon, but it did take me 4 hrs to make the 3 miles left to get to Hurd brook lean-to. I knew my knee wasn't right. I set up camp, talked to Wizard and Munchin, John. And went to bed early. I woke up, took some Vitamin I and took off for Rainbow stream lean-to. The first 5 miles everything was cool. I had some strange feeling in my knee, but it didn't hurt, but the last miles to the lean-to where the most pain I have ever had. So I made it to the lean-to, and was not very happy with my situation. I took some more pills, and tried to sleep. I didn't work. I did get some company around night fall. I took another pill, and tried to sleep. I woke up the next morning with the mind to make it to White house landing in two days, to just take it really slow, and take some pills. I would then take off a few days and try to feel better. Well that changed when I made it to the second of two log roads and a nice couple gave me a ride into Greenville. So now I'm back home, yes I am. I had to because its going to take at least a month to heal. My Uncle died this past week, so I guess it worked out. I'm still going to Glacier National Park at the end of the month, because its all day hiking. I plan on doing the section from the top of the Smokeys to Springer mountain after I get back from GNP, but a thru-hike will not be happening for me. It was a hard choice, but hurting myself more was not an option. I know now that within the next 2 years I'll try again, but do it north bound. Its all good, and I wish the best to everyone. and Many thanks to everyone who has helped me along. Later.
Date: 2013-03-14
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

So here I am again, but this time it's much more about me and the journey and not the goal. 6 years in six sentences. I obtained another Master's degree, have worked almost 5&1/2 years as an auditor, obtained my CFE, and just today officially put in my notice at work cause I'm ready to start living life again. I realized I'm not an auditor, realized material things only make it harder to live, realized that no one or thing is worth being depressed over or hating life for, and realized that the AT is part of my Life Journey - it needs to be complete before I can move on. In six years I've learned to appreciate family more, and be thankful for the Friends I've been given in this life. Only I can determine if I'm good enough.I'm Happy!!!Life is more important than work. LaterTo My NEW Thru-Hike Journey for 2013........
Date: 2013-03-15
To: 29 days to go
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

So I finished buying the rest of my gear and food today. My pack is at 35lbs which I can deal with. The food takes up most of the weight. I'm sure I'll realize that I don't need all the food, but I'd rather have a little more than not enough. I'm also thinking of doing a bounce box for excess. I have a lot of food that I didn't pack, and using the stuff I have left over will save me money. I'll have to research this one a lot more. I had more friends today tell me how excited they are for me and how they are looking forward to reading my journal along the way. Many have said they will help with food, or support. Just knowing they care means a lot. 29 more days.... :-) Later
Date: 2013-03-16
To: 28 days to go
Miles today: 0.0

It's amazing that my days are still going by pretty fast. I like this, means I'll be on the trail in no time. So I went back through my pack and took some more things out. My pack being 35lbs was not going to be a good thing. I cut down some of the food, I realized that I had overdone this part. Took out 2 shirts and a pair of shorts. Removing this took my pack from 35 to 30lbs...which I think is a little better. Wish I could get it down a few more pounds, but than it would mean not taking a few comfort items. These next 13 work days are going to be hard to concentrate. We will see. Later
Date: 2013-03-17
To: 27 days to go
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

I must say that I am extremely happy with the overwhelming support I'm receiving from friends, and Family. Except for maybe one or two people, everyone has been positive for my choice to leave my job, and take this adventure on again. I have 10 days left of work. They have tried to keep me, offering me many options. I must say tho, that when you realize what your dreams are, and see yourself in a certain place - I mean like really see yourself there - doing something just cause you can is not satisfying. I can audit, I've been doing this for 5 & 1/2 years now, but I see myself doing so much more. I can see myself completing the trail this time. I look back at the last attempt and realize why I didn't make it but 3 days. I was out of shape, rushing to make some time completion that was unreal to meet (causing my injury), and I was scared. This time I feel free, and on no one else's time. All I have to do is hike. I have a plan when I return, but in the meantime it's just me enjoying life in such a basic way. I see great things coming from this trip, and the biggest is me.
Date: 2013-03-21
To: 23 days to go
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

So I have 23 days until April 13, and my start date. The more I think about it tho, I'm really hoping I can manage to start the trail on April 12th. Why this day? Well because this is my Mother's Birthday. My trail name is in memory of my mother "Angel", and I started thinking that I would really like to begin this journey on a day that means so much to me. I think besides my sister Bette's Birthday, my mother's is the only one I ever could remember before her death in 2001. Now I remember lots more, but her's is still the most special to me. I'm also hoping I can manage to make my finish date the day she passed away. September 25th. I think this is more than doable. I know many have there thoughts on trying to meet dates, but I want this trip to be about me, and my journey. Part of my journey includes my mother Karen Ann Eswine Ashley. I miss her more than anything, even after almost 12 years. In September it will be 12 years. I was blessed to be gifted with such a wonderful parent, and best friend. It's funny, but when I though about quitting my job two weeks ago the first person who came to mind to call and get approval from was her. It only lasted a second before I realized I couldn't call her, so I did the next thing I always do after I think that. I called my sister (Toi) and brother (Shandy). I would have called my sister Bette also, but her phone signal where she lives never seems to work, so I know she wouldn't answer most likely. That reminds me I need to call her. lolThis journey is going to be amazing. I'm already feeling and seeing the positive affects of my choice to go back out and fulfill my dream. It's pretty amazing, and I look forward to my mother looking over me while I do it. Later
Date: 2013-03-29
To: 14 days!!!!!
Miles today: 0.0

At time it seems time is just creeping by, then others it's just flying by. It mainly flows like this - Work/slow - Off Work/fast. But I guess that's how it has always been. Can't complain much because I have 4 full days left of work, a week from now is my last day, and 14 days from now I'll be headed up to Amicalola State Park. I still don't know if I'll be doing the approach trail or not. I've done it in the past, so I really don't feel the need to do it again. I'll figure this out the week of the 12th. I've almost got everything packed for the move to get my stuff to MS. Last things to do is pay my money to the apt complex to break my lease, go to the banks and have them ship me new cards, and pay Uhaul. I might need another water proof stuff sack, and a compression sack? I'll go find these later today. I'm really blessed to be able to do this again, and also blessed that I'm starting mid-April. Hopefully the weather will be better than what is going on right now for so many hikers. Just by the other journals, it appears to be really bad. Later
Date: 2013-04-05
To: last day
Miles today: 0.0

Wow here it is, the last day of work and 7 days before I hit the trail. It seems like yesterday I started this job, and now this path in life has come to an end and a new "white blaze" has begun. I have so many emotions but most of them are the feeling that God is saying, "This is your time, enjoy the path I have laid before you". My coworkers through a great going away lunch this week, and me and my good friends here in Atlanta had a fun time at trivia last night. I'll be headed in a Uhaul later tonight to Mississippi where I'll get to see my gals and my family before I head out next week. How life really does work out when we allow it and stop trying to make it work in what we think is our best interest. From one if my favorite singers song This Journey is My Own, by Sara Groves- And now I live and I breathe for an audience of one Now I live and I breathe for an audience of one Now I live and I breathe for an audience of one 'cause I know this journey is my own How this is so true right now. With friends and family and Trail Angels and Christ, this will be my year! Later
Date: 2013-04-08
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

Well it's just 4 days away, and I think I have all I need now. I have some great friends who are helping out to make the trip easier. I'm also really enjoying the support I'm getting from people I've never met before. It's pretty awesome to know there are people out there that get enjoyment from just being nice and kind. I so wish the world were like this more.I have updated my mail drop list for my family and friends who are interested or shown interest in sending care packages. Just a note tho, that the dates are definitely estimations, and will probably change. Please let me know in advance if you want to send to any of the places listed, so that I know to check or it does not conflict with someone else who planned to send to a particular location.The format to put on the letter/package is as follow:Jeremy K. Ashleyc/o General DeliveryAddress of Post OfficePlease hold for Thru-Hiker (estimated date of arrival)Only ship USPS to the post office, they will not hold UPS or FedEx packages. Thanks for all the help, love, support, and belief in me. It's been amazing.Later!!!
Date: 2013-04-10
To: 36hrs +or-
Miles today: 0.0

So here it is about 36 hours before I start the Hike, I'm so ready to gooooooooo. I leave Mississippi at 4:55 in the morning on a Greyhound to Atlanta where my best bud Alphus is picking me up. We will hang until he takes me up to the Falls on Friday Morning. Everyone has been so awesome, and it has been a great visit to Mississippi seeing friends and family. I have about 10 mail drops planned that have been taken already, which is a huge blessing. I also got a HUGE gift from Macaula tonight with a toe nail painting party after dinner....what fun, and what a great gift. lol "Don't Hate" as my friend Monty would say. Every day I'm able to fulfill this Dream/bucket list is because of people who love and care for me. Not just me Believing in myself, but the Belief of others. It's been said to me many time over the last month I've decided to give up a great paying job, and leave comfort to do this, that people wish they had the courage. So many wish they had the time, the non commitments that keep them from living dreams. As much as I wish i had kids, and a family, I'm blessed that I don't at this moment, I'm glad I don't have a house or other things that would keep me from doing this.God in all his wisdom, knew that this year, this time in my life, my soul and spirit needed this journey. The older I get the more I realize that God is in control of things even when we don't see the outcome. This year is the fulfillment of a Dream that I have had for a long time, but also a fulfillment of a Dream that God had for me since before I was alive. How blessed I am to have someone who cares and thinks ahead for me. Later!!!!
Date: 2013-04-12
From: AFSP

To: Springer Mtn
Miles today: 0.2

Wow, what a great day today! Had Breakfast with Alphus and Mike! They drove me up to the to get signed in...#958!!!!We did a little sight seeing at the falls!! Just wonderful start! The trail is much easier than I remember from 3 years ago when I hike here in the summer. Although my pack is 45lbs.. Yes crazy! I've already decided on things to send back... Lol I thought a lot today about advice my gals have given me over the years about hiking and how I hike. I'm pretty fast most of the time, but today I slowed up, I "Hiked Like Pam"!! As she told me to do! I also stopped a lot and enjoyed the views like Char would tell me. I saw so much beauty today in it all. When the trail did get a tough, I just remembered my mom and her strength in life. I also would tell myself that the pain was worth all I have sacrificed to be here. Giving up a well paying Government job was not easy, but today I realized how blessed I am to have do it. I met several thru hikers today, Trek Overhill (get it) lol Some people from Germany,   Lara and a guy named???? Starts with a Y??? Lol I also met Kathleen who is hiking with a friend until Monday then she is going to Maine alone with the rest of us. Then there was the homeless couple with there attach dogs doing it for a vaca away from the regular homelessness they live. Very nice couple. Not the dogs!!! Also met Frank who is starting today as well and will be in the shelter tonight as well. Well time to watch the sunset!! It's going to be amazing!!! Stats from today! Steps taken today: 25,626Floors climbed: 279Miles walked total: 11.42And it's only 6:29Later