morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2014-12-24
To: Wishing EVERYONE a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS
Miles today: 0.0

....need to get back to drying some more meat to pack. Love that smell. Beef jerky to go with the Mac N Cheese, and what not.Just wanted to send a Merry Christmas to ALL and a very ADVENTURE FILLED new year. Wish you all the best and luck.MERRY CHRISTMAS!!T
Date: 2014-12-25
To: While the left over ham dries...
Miles today: 0.0

I smile and eagerly look toward the end of Feb. and the train ride to Atlanta.The holiday has been great, family has been very supportive and I think they are eager for me to be on the trail too, perhaps so they can have some peace and quiet and a different topic to talk about. (laughing at myself) I'm sure we all catch ourselves just being immersed in our dream, desire and anxiety for something that is so close to taking on a life of it's own.It is a great feeling having just about everything ready, taken care of, and just waiting for the START. Do other's feel the same level of anxiety? I've even had a few moments where the date just pops out and smacks me, like wow, it's almost here. And then I start the mental list of "is everything ready"? all over again.Well, I've got batteries to install, instructions to read, warranty cards to fill out, assembly required, and even "some" assembly required items to tend to.None trail related. By the way, giving your grandkids toys that make noise, or needs batteries is a great thing. I get to go home, and the toy goes with them.
Date: 2014-12-28
To: One pond, one rock, many, many ripples...
Miles today: 0.0

...had a lazy day today, caught up on some journal reading, etc.And the thought really hit me, that we all really are like that rock thrown into the pond of water, and the various ripples that just spread out and melt back into the surface of the water. Some of us make that impressive splash, some of us are that first ripple ever growing outward upon the surface, and some of us are that inner ripple close to the splash. But we're all in the same pond. Love it, gonna enjoy it.T.
Date: 2014-12-28
To: Watch for that DoubleAMissle
Miles today: 0.0

That man and beast is one to be reckoned with. Please, just step aside and wave "hello" as they blast through. *Now please know, they are a great team and love the outdoors, and will help anyone, but WOW, they move like a rocket on jet fuel.   I'm actually looking forward to DoubleA passing me and giving me that much awaited 'high five', as he blows by.T.
Date: 2014-12-28
To: ...scared witless
Miles today: 0.0

...hate "mummy" bag sleeping arrangements, hate snakes, don't mind bears, they make great rugs....hate spiders....rats and thinks that just sneak up on ya.just completed reading: "300 Zero's" by D. Blanchard.   loved the book....hated his focus on the "fears" on the trail. He did a tremendous job of relaying a great story, but really intensified many fears too.I'll suck it up and see if I'm that 1 in 10,000 that gets bit. Dang snakes.
Date: 2014-12-31
To: Got in another prep hike
Miles today: 0.0

Left about 6AM on Tuesday morning. Picked up a co-worker on the way out and drove out to Old Rag Mountain. Since he had his dog with him, we did a loop on the Nicholson Hollow Trail, and he had a spot from a previous visit picked out right along the very wide and fast flowing creek. The sound was awesome. No wind overnight, but it got downright bone chilling cold. Registered 19F when I got up at 5AM. Started a fire, and everything was covered in a layer of frost or ice. My bag replacement worked great. VERY happy about that. Well I'm looking at 8 weeks now before I start the BIG ONE. yes, I've got butterflies when I stop and think about it approaching so rapidly now. Want to wish everyone about to be out there, those that ARE out there, and those that have BEEN out there....a VERY HAPPY and SAFE NEW YEAR!!   T
Date: 2015-01-01
To: Pocket Rocket vs Trangia Alcohol
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

a few days ago, my friend accompanied me on an overnight short hike into the Old Rag Mountain area, and when it came time to cook, yes, his MSR pocket rocket, boiled water about 50% faster initially. Come second cup of coffee, second serving, etc.....as the nigh grew colder...my trangia won out. He used my pocket stove, over his pocket rocket. LOVED IT.
Date: 2015-01-03
To: 55 days and my LOA begins
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: scattered clouds

In 55 days, I leave the office in Downtown D.C., for the morning rush in the woods. The time has been rapidly marching ever closer since I set things in motion for it to actually become a reality.The excitement is building. Every waking minute that is not occupied by a needed chore, task or check-off list item, is filled with electric anxiety, joy and longing for that first step.Still have a few household chores and loose end items to take care of minimize any chance of them becoming problems in my absence. Hope everyone is progressing well in there prep stages as well. Will be looking forward to the first group heading out sometime in early March. It's finally here....
Date: 2015-01-03
To: ..a Dream, a date, a reality
Miles today: 0.0

Going over some logistical matters with my logistical 'officer', (spouse) really drove home today just how much has really played into the hands of those NOT going on the hike physically. yet vested beyond 100% in the venture.I've asked a lot not only in the acceptance of this undertaking, but also in the support of it as it plays out. And for that I am deeply appreciative of the ongoing support and acceptance. It's too easy to keep focus on the adventure "I" am undertaking. But at the same time, I need to remain mindful of those that wait in the shadows. And I'm trying to address that. Each does so, in the manner they choose.Well, just a few more fine tunes to do, a kick, and tuck here and there..and it's off into the wild blue yonder. SEE YOU ALL OUT THERE!! T
Date: 2015-01-03
To: Tech and Elements
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

I'm by NO MEANS an expert. But have experienced a few situations where I thought I was covering my bases, and well..not so much. If you are starting your hike with the possibility of still freezing or below temps be mindful of your electronic power sources. Be it backup battery, alternate battery, etc. The cold is an enemy that will ZAP that power. I protected my water filter, batteries, and sensitive device(s) in a secure Ziploc.
Date: 2015-01-06
To: the Reality is hitting
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: light snow

As I wind up all my items on my checklist for home, office, etc. I keep experiencing these "panic attack" like moments. It's more like a bolt of excitement, anxiety, concern and mental rundown. I don't think it's avoidable unless you've been there before with this kind of adventurous undertaking. I am not. So I'm experiencing all these thoughts, emotions, concerns, etc just converging as the date draws closer. Things are going well, I'm thankful. Family is doing well, all are still supportive and some are waiting in the wings to see how it goes. Well, a dream in the closet that see's the light of day is a difficult creature to contain for sure.
Date: 2015-01-08
To: ...49 days to go, then the walk of my life.
Miles today: 0.0

This morning I woke realizing that it's 49 days now before I walk out the door of my office job for at least 6 months, and enter the outdoors of the AT Trail.Yes, the excitements is kicking up a notch with each approaching day. Around the house there is an almost tangible 'electric' feel to everything, and from everybody. My wife has even started injecting words in her conversations both to me other's with talk about "the hike, the trail, the adventure...." it's been a long time coming to reality and it's almost here. So just wanted to say to those about to start at about the same time as myself, I know how you must feel. IT'S GREAT!!   Winter weather of late has really been punching just about everyone and really hope that those already out there are taking necessary steps to hunker down and stay warm. More later as the departure time gets here. Take care all.   T
Date: 2015-01-09
To: Heading out for cold day tomorrow
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: few clouds

It's forecast to be sunny but pretty cold. Doing an 8.7 mile in and out on the South Valley Trail along the South Fork Quantico Creek tomorrow morning. Prince William Forest Park. There's 38 miles of loops and trails with some minor elevation gains and a few ups and downs. I like going out there because it's miniature taste of what the start for me will be like. This week went by really fast, and I am sure other's are experiencing the same feeling. The date on the calendar is just blaring away and approaching. Have a great weekend all. T
Date: 2015-01-10
To: I have new profound RESPECT for those that started
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

I left the house about 7:25AM, just as the sun was about to rise. 14F out. Wind chill was about 4F. I had anticipated the conditions, and really desired to do whatever I could of what was available to me.Arrived at PWFSP, paid my entrance via self kiosk, drove the short way to the trail head/camp grounds, only to find that since Nov 2014 they are no longer 365 days. Cut backs. Budget re-directs, etc. Ok, but I can still 'walk' the grounds, trails, loops..right?So I head out, wind picks up, not too noticeable, but my finger tips, start to really hurt. I have gloves on, walking the trail with poles...moving...the sun is up...now 20F out...wind about 8 MPH, varies...and I realize...this is crazy...water in hydration tube already frozen solid....water in my 1-liter Nalgene is about encased in 1/8" of ice...I'm physically comfortable as I move but I can't believe how fast and rapid things take a change. I continue on the trail, forego the loop extension on the Farm To Forest Loop and walk back to the start. I learned at least that temps play a HUGE role in what your plans are for the day.   Also learned that the gloves that I have (without the liners that I left at home, suck) so re-thinking that combo. Heading back out tomorrow morning when the temps at least hit freezing or above.   T
Date: 2015-01-11
To: Gloves in and of themselves not the problem
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

What I didn't do was bring my liners. Like sock liners, they insulate and protect at a micro level of comfort. I did have my ZIPPO hand warmer..which I used alternately to warm hands while I walked. I love that thing. Like a pocket space heater.   The thing I learned was...temps mean something. And I learned that when it's below freezing, PAY ATTENTION. I'll just keep my liners with the gloves at all times now.
Date: 2015-01-16
To: Headed out for 2 nights
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

Really excited and filled with anticipation!! 41 more days and I'll be headed for Atlanta. But before then I am trying to get as many overnight or longer hikes in as I can. Headed out at 4PM today from work and will be spending Friday night and Saturday night covering some trails near me. I will be enjoying the company of an intern from my office that is from France. He returns at the end of the month. Should be a great time. I want to wish the best for all of those who have already started their hike on the AT and for those about to in the next several weeks. I know everyone just has to be bristling with excitement. I know I am.   Take care everyone and see you out on the trail very soon. T
Date: 2015-01-18
To: A new LOW, and learned a few more things
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: scattered clouds

Well back from a two night stay and hike near home. The new LOW, was the temp Friday night. For me, it was the lowest I've been out with my starting gear for the AT. And to be honest, I hope I don't see too many nights in the teens. It was 14F. Everything worked fine. No shivering. Bag and tent performed as I had hoped. Covered about 15 miles over an 8 hour day Saturday. Got a very early start as the sun was just rising. Took a 30 minute lunch, and had to treat my first heel blister. (thought I had these shoes broken in). I honestly think it was the socks. I love Darn Tuff socks, but they are not as thick as my usual REI heavy duty. And since I normally upsize 1/2 a size for my boots/shoes...my heel slid around just a tiny bit. But enough to burn a hot spot on the side.Had excellent weather for all day Saturday. Covered some really good ground and I had the intern from my office with me. He completed the JMT trail back in August and his time is nearly up here in DC. So I was glad to have company along for the weekend out. Sunday morning, got a taste of what to expect on the AT. RAIN. COLD freezing RAIN. Again, gear was fine. Learned that you can pack up QUICK even with frozen hands. My gear is now assembled in my garage drying out. I have to make an adjustment to my ALPS Zephyr 1 vestibule...it dumps rain water right into my tent when zipped open...did NOT expect that. But all in all...another great prep hike and actually enjoyed the variety of conditions and weather. Less than 40 days now, and I'll be on that slow train to Atlanta. Hope everyone is doing well, plans coming together and final preps taking place. Be seeing everyone out there very soon. Take care.   T
Date: 2015-01-19
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

http://lighterpack.com/r/5y6cxmThought I would try and categorize my gear and sort it all out. Will be dropping some items from list but base weight is right at 29.37 lbs. Will need to add about 8 lbs for food, snacks, etc. and about another 3 lbs or more for water.
Date: 2015-01-22
To: a tip of the hat to those out, and those about to 
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

Spent the last few days just catching up on some journals. Some past years, some last year, and a lot of my hopeful classmates. Smiling. I find it very inspiring to read and see how each person no matter the level of experience, deals with each approaching day, obstacle, and unfortunately even setbacks. So my hat is off to each and every one of you! T
Date: 2015-01-22
To: signing OFF, until on the TRAIL
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: few clouds

Don't want to bore anyone with useless anxiety...on my part. Will resume posts as I can in 33 days from now. Take care.   And thanks to all that replied positive feed back. And to the extremely few that just had to inject the gloom and negative...well, I'm NOT YOU, so thanks..but no thanks. T
Date: 2015-01-25
To: Just a HELLO to everyone, and it's T-30 now
Miles today: 0.0

trying out the Bluetooth roll up keyboard for my journal updates. Cursed with fat fingertips. lol. So the tiny smartphone keyboard is difficult to use. Have everything ready to go, just dealing with last minute things at work, home and family. I actually think they will be happy for me to be 'finally' on that dang trail, so they can relax, and hear or talk about something else. For that, I apologize. perhaps some of you can relate.   Well, I am enjoying reading everyones journal updates and the excitement level that everyone is displaying is sure showing. I swear I can feel it in the air...   Until later, T.
Date: 2015-01-25
To: Just completed yet another book..I'm still in awe
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: scattered clouds

Walking on the Happy Side of MiserableVery good read. I relate to much in how the person shared the journey as it unfolded. I honestly don't believe I have false notions as to conditions, and how rapidly they can and WILL change. But reading this account sure gave a mental taste of what lies ahead. Things I never even contemplated. Thus yet another good reason to expose yourself to the journey made by those before. IMHO. I'm glad I did.I am also touched by all the prep and overcoming that the Class of '15 is doing even now. I don't know how many of you I will meet, get to know, share the trail in person, etc. But I look forward to that DISCOVERY! The itch has become a full blown mental rash, and there is no cure other then head North for me. And in just a few more weeks, that is what I will be doing. T.
Date: 2015-01-25
To: We all start from somewhere, and so I do!!
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

It doesn't bother me that I lack prior experience, nor that I don't know all the reasons why. (does anyone really?) I'm just happy that I have the ability, the time and what appears to be great companionship for the journey ahead. I'm convinced, the journey along this trail is like a fingerprint. We all have, and all are unique. Individual. Separate, yet joined with just a handshake and a smile. Shared challenges, discomfort, moments of laughter and solitude as it happens. I could ask nothing more, and I'm certain I will encounter ALL in abundance. Now, that to me, describes "adventure". T.
Date: 2015-01-27
To: Mail Drops all mapped out and ready
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: snow

Finalized my mail drops. That was big item for me to finalize and figure out. Worked it out based upon my best estimate of mileage and time. I hope that I wasn't to aggressive in my hopes to be where I expect to be at any given time. Nice thing is, they can change if need be. Countdown is in full swing now and time is racing towards the START. Later, T
Date: 2015-01-27
To: I am so excited for EVERYONE starting so very soon
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

it really is like "hair standing on end" when I read everyone's prep, final things to do, etc. Then I pause, and realize...holy cow, I didn't think of that...and go and take care of.   Well, it feels like that at the very least.I started posting my work messages with NOBO,   GA-->ME,   etc....had a senior associate stop by and wanted to now the cryptic "add-ons". Guess he didn't get the memo. So, I described what it all meant.   Not sure if they were amused, or wondering why I was allowed to be on payroll for so long.   lol, either way...it's a done deal. T
Date: 2015-01-27
To: ...there's always that unanswerable....why
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: snow

I say unanswerable in the context that tries to do justice to the attempt. I don't think a simple answer, or a single sentence answer could suffice for me. other's it may. But when you have lived a life paying dues to obligations bigger than your desire to be elsewhere, it becomes so much more complicated to focus upon a singular "why". For many of us, we reach a point of both physical and mental freedom to take the dive. To move forward with something that has been on reserve for so long. I fall into that camp. For me, it has been like the pebble in a beach shoe, it's not painful, but not worth taking the effort to free it either. Until it becomes so annoying, you KNOW the time is NOW. And so it began. the planning. the selling of the idea to those that would have to not only take on more responsibility and risk...but to everyone.First and foremost on that list, would be my loving wife. For upon her shoulders, though I tried to minimize any added burden, there always is, with a vacant spouse. For that, I owe an unimaginable thank you.to family, amidst the whispers of "...he's lost it", or , "why couldn't he just get a red corvette and call it FUN". Thank you for being part of the pastel that finished the picture. For either you are canvas or the paint, choose. Either way, it's getting framed.To co-workers: Thank you for being patient and ever so accommodating to my prattle for what must have seemed like eternity. For that, I apologize....and to my adoptive 'family' of hikers yet to meet, how can I thank? but by being out THERE, experiencing the same as yourself. And I intend to do just that. See you ALL so very soon. T
Date: 2015-01-27
To: part of prep was new glasses...oh boy
Miles today: 0.0

Went with some 'more durable' read, really retro black frames. Well partial black frames. But I opted for the Crizol coating that helps keep things clear and clean. the trail and time will tell if the hype is real or not. also, advice was given (and well received) about having a hard case to protect the glasses during camp time. already learned that...due to self punishment to frames on prior pair. How do other's deal with glasses? just curious. T
Date: 2015-01-30
To: Heading out AM tomorrow for cold hike
Miles today: 0.0

Taking advantage of the time left to still condition the legs and strengthen my knees a bit. Will be under full load for about 10 miles tomorrow. I expect it to be cold, and approximate the weather conditions I will have during the first of March when I start. I think the first couple of times you get out and do it, it always seems like a shock to the system. But I find that just moving, and having a focus sure overcomes that. Last few weeks have been very exciting here on the Journals. Enjoying everyone's preps and departure plans coming to life. See everyone soon. Take care, T
Date: 2015-01-30
To: ...First of March...is bad too?
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: broken clouds

yikes...it is what it is. sigh.....   ok, ok...I have warm socks...DRY socks...and lot's of coffee. Nothing a spare SNICKER's can't solve in a pinch....okay...SNICKER consumed. hmmm..hunker down, move out, when it's "less" crappy like.   *less crappy like is up to you.T
Date: 2015-01-31
To: Question: Drop Boxes
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

okay, everything else is packed, stuffed, double stuffed, checked, pulled out, checked again, and re-stuffed. You would think by now I would have everything under control (you'd be thinking wrong). There is no control. ....smilingThe one little detail that has been nagging me, is my 'bounce box'.Just how other's dealt with? Do I send it where I first think I might need it?or just keep bouncing it forward until I actually need something in it? Or maybe I just plain don't need it. It' like that one last little item, that you put off, hope it just goes away. lol.   T
Date: 2015-02-03
To: 17 days of work left
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: clear sky

That in itself is a very new feeling. Though temporary, it's one that I really hadn't paid too much attention to. But the thought is there, mingled with the excitement of nearing the departure date. Everything is in order, ready and waiting. I think these final few days are the most difficult.   I certainly have been enjoying reading about everyone's final preps and plans that are coming together. I personally look forward to meeting everyone at some point along the way. Take care everyone, and be seeing you on the trail!!   T
Date: 2015-02-04
To: ...it FEELS good...and All Is Ready
Miles today: 0.0

I have literally caught up with my entire "To Do" list about 24 days early. And I can't tell you how good it feels. I mean EVERYTHING ON THE LIST. And that includes filing my taxes and getting it over with. I have 14 working days left at the office and it's difficult to stay focused at times. Just glad there are a lot of demanding deadlines and milestones to be met to force that upon me until the day I leave.I will have only 1 day from the time I leave the office, and the time I am on the train to Atlanta. So it really forced me to stick to a schedule to get things done and prepared before that day arrived. Here's to seeing all out there real soon. Take care, T
Date: 2015-02-06
To: when the Dream becomes your dreams..
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

Then you wake and DO. I'm waiting for that morning.   The past week has been very active in completing pre-hike agenda. Along with all of those activities my dreams have been of what I envision once on the trail. Not always pleasant romps thru the woods, but all the reality stuff too. And I still want to do it. Even more so. I am even more encouraged by the ones that share here also. It's all come down to "days" before I start. And that, amazes me.   4 years of saving, planning, and getting things in order. And countless decades waiting before I could do that. And it is all down to 'days' now.Maybe I should remember to breathe.T