morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2007-12-10
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

I spent some time putting up some more pictures.There are still a few more of Maryland that need to be posted.It will give everyone something new to look at later.Did a little more Christmas shopping today so I'm a little closer to being done.We host Christmas dinner for the family so there is still alot of work to be done.It's almost as exciting as planning a hike!But it's not as much work.Soon it will be over and hiking will be my main focus.Getting the finances back in order,getting the kids ready for my absence,and getting myself ready.So get yourself ready to watch me Finish What I Started!
Date: 2007-12-25
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

Merry Christmas to all!Hope Santa was good to you guys.Well now that the presents have been opened and the feast has been eaten it is time For a vacation!I clocked out at work around 3:30 yesterday and I'm gone until January the 9th!YEA!I love my job and the people I work with but every now and again you just need a little away time.Not really sure where I'm going (Christmas surprise)but it is away from here and I know I'll be doing a little hiking!That will be a gift in it's self.Santa was way too good for me and Old School,It reminded me of when I was a kid!Thank you kids.Any way I just wanted to say Merry Christmas and wish you all a Great New Year!Life will be Great in 2008!                                 Tomorrow is a...                                       New Day!
Date: 2008-01-22
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

Well we made it through last week's Snow Storm!It snowed for hours but in the morning it just looked like it had rained.No problem though we sure did need it.Spending today loading pictures and helping B-rad decide on wether or not he wanted to hike with an ultralight pack or not.We loaded it to about 22lbs. and went over to our 3 mile loop trail.It's how I decided I didn't want to carry it.He liked it though so that's one less peice of gear he'll need.He really Can't wait to get back out there.I on the other hand keep the butterflies.Part excitment part worry.The worry is leaving the family for so long again.It will be hard but I'm sure everyone will adapt.As for the excitment anyone who hikes knows that feeling.Time sure is flying bye we'll be out there before you know it so keep on checking in so you can Watch Me Finish What I Started!                                 Tomorrow is a                                    New Day
Date: 2008-02-05
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

Time sure does fly when you get closer to Life changing events.I'm sitting here this morning enjoying the peace and quiet of my typical tuesday morning(kids are gone to school & Old School is sleeping in)thinking of my upcomming hike.There is still so much to do.I decided to give the new hand book a try so Old School ordered it and it arrived last week!Now usually I'm a creature of habbit and don't care too much for change but I must say I think it's gonna be a Great guide book!It has a few more features than Wingfoot's books,like an elevation map built right in which I think is nice cause now I can see what I'm in for for the day.I also like the fact that all the trail info is on the right side so it will be easier to read while still in a ziplock.Don't go thinking it's perfect though cause there have been a few updates and corrections.B-rad will be carrying our 07 edition of Wingfoot just in case.Now I just need to pick up a few pieces of gear I need.Basically just socks but you never know what you might find or decide you might want to change.So I'll be visiting the outfitter's soon.   B-rad is getting excited too.He will be starting with me.He has a little more gear to buy than I do so he's working a second job to ensure he will have all he needs and won't have to hike on a tight budget.Now if you have read any of Old Schools journal you will know that B-rad got off trail in the Shenandoah's cause of shin splints but returned in Conn.to finish with Old School.He was then dropped off in Conn.again so he could finish by filling in the missing sections going South!It took him some time but he was home in time for Thanksgiving.He says he can't wait to get back out there and do most of what he had to do SOBO the way he intended NOBO.Congrats to him n his thru-hike! Youngblood on the other hand is more excited about his home and school life.He is a junior in high school and has BIG plans for his future.He plans to attend the Airforce Academy after Graduation.Tonight he has Ring Ceramony and on friday Ring Dance.(back in my day we called this Junior Prom)So for the time being this is what's important to him.He will be meeting up with us in Conn. so he can fill in a little more of what he has already done.Than after his Graduation he will be going from Springer to Daleville,Va to become a 2000 miler!What a journey it has been so far and I'm glad to say I look forward to Finishing what I Started!So keep checking in on us and try to send encouraging words when possible.It's all uphill from here!                                    Tomorrow is a....                                       New Day!
Date: 2008-03-04
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

Gear,Gear,and more Gear!That is what my thoughts have been about.I can't pick up any thing without checking out the weight.I know it sounds crazy but I know what a heavy pack can do to you.Ounces=pounds£s=MISERY!I started with a 35LB.pack in 06 and knowing what I know now I'm trying to keep the weight down to about 20lbs.To do this I had to replace some gear and I have to keep reminding myself what the difference is in must have and luxery.   My new sleeping bag arrived yesterday and I can't wait to try it.It's so fluffy and very warm,but most of all it weighs a whole lb. less than my other bag.We got a real good deal on it too.Saved over $100 yea!So I guess with the savings I can buy more gear!LOL. Last week our new camera arrived and I'm real happy for that cause it will probly be after the hike before I learn how to use it.So many features to learn about so what I don't figure out before hand I'll learn on the trail. My new GOLITE shoes haven't arrived yet cause they are on a re-order.But there is still plenty of time?Is there really?The months seem to be flying by!It won't be long,3 months down 2 more to go!I still get butterflies when I think about it. Old School does alot of the research and even though I decided to use the new Appalachian Pages for my guide book he discovered that Bob"501"McCaw has aquired the Thru-Hikers handbook and there is now an "08" copy so he purchased it.B-rad will be carring that one and in the end we will determine which one we prefer. Today I'll be packing up my pack to decide how everything will be carried.This will be the first time I've had to carry a tent so that is an extra item I have to make room for.I also have learned that it my take a few times of packing to get it right for my back.The main reason though is to make sure my raincover will fit.It is a must for me.I hate to be wet or even damp so I back things up by putting EVERYTHING that MUST stay DRY in a Ziplock!Sounds a little crazy but it works for me.   I can't wait to be hiking...Keep checking in to Watch Me Finish What I Started.                           Tomorrow is a                              New Day!
Date: 2008-03-23
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

Old School here......After I finished my thru hike in '06 I thought that would be the end of the trail,literally....But soon after coming home it was very clear that New Day would not be a happy camper until she has hiked every damn step of the AT....and I couldn't be happier for herSo she has a little over half way to go and I'm jealous that I won't be able to do all of it with her.....but when she gets to NH I will try to join her for the rest of the hike to Big K....WOW to be able to hike NH and Me again,with New Day is going to be great,but not just New Day,Young Blood and B-rad will be there making it the Party of four....Well can hardly wait to get out there again,I think about the trail all the time,its going to be fun to meet the class of '08.....      A BAD DAY ON THE TRAIL IS STILL A DAY ON THE TRAIL.....                              Old School....GAME '06
Date: 2008-04-08
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

5 weeks and counting!I pulled out my gear last night to pack up,and check out my weight.So far without food and water I'm at a beautiful 17lbs!Not too shaby. Today I'm gonna practice setting up my Hubba.I was never responsable for the tent setup so I guess a hubba is a good choice.I know it's a little soon but it needs to air out and I can check for any needed repair.It only has about 400 miles on it but alot can happen in that amount of time. The weather here in Va.Beach has been awlful.I find myself telling people I work with that its not good hiking weather.I really feel for thoes of you that are out there.Don't get me wrong I really don't mind the rain as long as it's not freezing!And we all know when it's in the 40's and your wet you feel like your freezing. I'm pretty sure I have all my gear together and I'll make my list of things I still need.B-rad on the other hand still has stuff to get.We went to our outfitters and got a few things and his new raingear is on it's way so now it's just what he wants to hike in and he is thinking about a new tent.I don't think he's as excited as I am about the hike but he is excited about not having to work for the summer.(lol) I still count my start day by weeks and am looking forward to the time I count in days.It seems so far but is so close,I get the butterfly effect when I think about.It won't be long now so check back in so you can Watch Me Finish What I Started!                              Tomorrow is a...                                    New Day!
Date: 2008-05-13
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

So much to do and now so little time!That is my thought for today.In just 2 days I will be leaving the comforts of my home to continue and God willing Finish my journey.We leave for Trail Days on friday and then it's off to MD.    I have a knot in my stomach that is excitment & fear and I'm unsure which one is greater.I want to think it's excitment cause I've been preparing and planning for almost a year and it's finally here!I have 2 more shifts left at work.That is exciting in itself cause it ain't everyday you get to take the summer off to go take a walk in the woods.I'll miss everyone but can't say I would rather be there!Nothing like summer at the Beach when you wait tables at an IHOP.   We have been having the worst weather here on and off for about a week now and it looks like more is ahead.I hope it's pretty for Trail Days.Not to mention I really don't want to start of in the rain but I'll do what I have to. B-rad has a little more shopping to do and then the evening will be that of going over gear so we don't forget anything or carry anything we don't need.I'll let you knw how it goes.Until then Good Luck and Have a Great Hike!                                 Tomorrow is a...                                    New Day!
Date: 2008-05-18
To: View Entry
Miles today: 1040.4

Trail Days...May 16th-18th............We left for Trail Days about 1:30 in the 'morning..Wow what a long drive it is from one side of Va to the other side.We arrived about 10:30 and set up our campsite...we went and checked out town,bought a couple mini kegs and started our weekend....kinda my going away bash so to speak.Saturday we went and got food supplies then came back and fixed breakfast,we had a good time with the parade but it was a little cold to be getting wet...but we did anywayWe held off for awhile before we started drinking but that keg was gone in no timeSunday morning we were up early cause the campers across from us went all nite and was still going when we were leaving..After programing our destination into Tom Tom for Pen-Mar park so our kids could park the car and pick us up after I got into PA....we hiked into the Ensign Cowall Shelter and set the tents up on tents pads 3 and 5At the shelter we had a pasta dinner and a couple of beers..its so close to the road we packed in a cooler...We hit the sack about 10:00... Here I go... the time is almost here!!!I have butterflies again so I hope I can sleep tonite.Am I ready..the time is here...can I really you know FINISH WHAT I STARTED!                                    Tomorrow is a                                              New Day
Date: 2008-05-19
From: wolfsville rd.

To: Pen-Mar rd.
Miles today: 10.1

I was up real early this morning,and by 8:00 am I had everyone else up too.Old School couldn't believe it when he heard my sleeping mat deflate.After I packed up I went to the shelter to fix my coffee..I'm real excited now.We walked back down to to put some things in the car and at 9:30 our boys drove off and me and Old School headed NorthThe boys (Young Blood & B-rad) Parked the car at Pen-Mar Park and they got on trail and headed south.We met them right before we got to the Devils Racecourse Shelter.We took our time cause we haven't done any hiking since Sept....We were at the PA.line before 4:00.After a couple of pictures we jumped in the car to find room for the niteWe headed to Waynesboro but because we had a car we had more options.We drove over to Shady Grove and checked into the Econo Lodge ..We all got showers then had dinner at Arby's..now its off to the store to get supplies for the next few days on the trail.As always we got too much but a lot of it will go into a mail dop so no biggie.Back at the room I started packing up the pack making sure that I have every thingOld School said I hope you know how much I love you and how hard it will be to walk away from you.....But you know I must finish Old School,it was your dream but my Destiny!Me & B-rad will be starting kinda slow so I don't have to get a early start and I'm happy for the extra time with Old SchoolTime for bed now....but check back and watch me FINISH WHAT I STARTED.                           Tomorrow is a                                    New Day
Date: 2008-05-20
From: Pen-Mar rd.

To: Tumbling Run Shelter
Miles today: 8.2
Weather: mist

Woke up early today and began to get ready to hit the trail.We had breakfast at McDonalds and was at the place on Pen Mar Rd were I ended yesterday.I got real emotional but didn't ask or say I wanted to go home.It started to drizzle and we said our final good-bye,with tears in my eyes I headed North on the AT.About five minutes up the trail it started to really rain and got more than a little cold.My feet were wet within a few minutes.I don't know about that I don't think I like it...but who does...When we came out of the woods to cross Pa 16 I found a note and some cokes from Old School & Young Blood..but at that point I wish it had been Old School standing there.I told B-rad that we could go into town we we decided to tuff it out.We were at Dicks Lick shelter by 2:30,at the shelter were Ishmel,Robin Hood and his friend,they had gotten trail magic from Old School right before I did.We left the shelter and was at our destination for the evening before 5:00,except for the rain,mudd I'm loving PA.We set up camp and had mashed potatoes with chic for dinner,there has been so much rain we couldn't built a fire..A ridge runner came in at about 7:30 and we chatted a bit,he said that the weather was going to clear up tomorrow,but we might still have a chance for a shower or two.I'm now in my bag and about ready to call it a nite,its going to be in the 40's tonite,so I'm be way down in my bag...time for bed..                                    TOMORROW IS A                                              New Day
Date: 2008-05-21
From: Tumbling Run Shelter

To: Quarry Gap Shelter
Miles today: 12.2
Weather: broken clouds

Today began with a beautiful blue sky..We talked to a ridge runner that said we still had some rain coming...Great!And sure enough about 2pm the sky opened up..wouldn't have been that bad but the temps dropped too.We get into Quary Gap Shelter about 4:15 and WOW it is a really nice shelter...A Sobo section hiker called Barbarosa was there.I said what a nice place I think we'll stay.After we arrived Burrow hiked in,then a fella & his son,then Dutch arrived followed by the four sisters,Start,Furniture and Memphis Jim came not long after.We now have a full house.Its real cold,in the low 40's but I'm snug in my bag.Even with the rain a small fire was built and I dried my socks a little,so hopefully it won't be to bad in the AMTryin to start early cause we want to get to the Ironman Hostle tomorrow,With each mile I'm closer to FINISHING WHAT I STARTED!!!                           TOMORROW IS A                                     New Day
Date: 2008-05-22
From: Quarry Gap Shelter

To: Iron Master Hostel
Miles today: 17.3

Not a bad nite in the shelter at all,cold but no mice.Woke up at 6:30 and was heading up the trail by 8:15We are trying for a big day(17 miles),Old School gave me the weather and he was on the money,a little morning shower and then it cleared and got a little warmer,I hiked in shorts cause it got so nice.At times today the trail was a stream and real muddy.We met a section hiker that day hikes back and forth to his car,when he done he will have hiked the whole thing both north and south,said he will be done in 2018...wowWe made it to the hostel..what a cool placeWe got burgers at the general store but I wasn't feeling well and couldn't eat,not sure of whats wrong,tummy is not happy We got the tour of the undergound railroad,which was real cool!Didn't have phone service but the hostel had free long distance...nice service.Still not feeling well so going to bed.               TOMORROW IS A                      New Day
Date: 2008-05-23
From: Iron Master Hostel

To: campesite next to a steam
Miles today: 11.3

Slept well last nite except for all the real loud snoringFinally enough hot water to take a shower,yesterday the guys used it all before I could get oneHad a couple cups of coffee and then I packed up to go...sometimes that takes awhile because some times (I'm told) I have shit everywhere.Had a good hike today,we went to the Green Mtn. store for subs as a late lunchTalked to Old School for a minute and I moved on up the trailWe only hike a few more miles stopping at a campsite only about .5 from a rd.,a little loud but it will do.We are camped by a stream and have a nice fireOur plans for tomorrow is to hike into Boiling SpringsWell good nite...my head hurts but.....TOMORRROW IS A                                                 New Day
Date: 2008-05-24
From: campesite next to a steam

To: Boiling Springs
Miles today: 8.1
Weather: broken clouds

Woke up this morning really missing Old School and the kids.Fealing real blue, B-rad and I packed up and headed for Boiling Springs. While packing up, one of B-rad's tent poles broke. I hope we can fix it with some duct tape.It was a real nice day, sunny and warm. It was real nice too, the rock climb was just what i needed! But for the most part it was nice.We got into town about 1pm and went to the house where B-rad stayed in '06. No other hikers were there so we got the "playhouse."We went to the pool to shower and then into town for a couple of things.When we got back to the playhouse Patricia and her husband Mark had some company. Kim and her daughter Miley were there. Rachael is Mark and Patricias daughter and she and Miley are friends.They invited us to dinner and they put out some great food.Floater is also hiking to Maine and is here too.We had lots of good conversations and after dinner we played batmitten.We had a lot of fun. Thanks a lot you guys. For some reason today I was really missing home. I even cried a couple of times. I told O.S. I didn't think my heart was in it. But i'm not ready to go home.Wow how soon I had those thoughts.Anyway, the day ended with the sounds of a train and snoring.Peace to all.                           TOMORROW IS A....                              New Day
Date: 2008-05-25
From: Boiling Springs

To: Darlington Shelter
Miles today: 14.3
Weather: clear sky

Woke up about 8 this morning and was packed up and ready to hit the trail by 9amWent to the Getty Mart for the use of the bathroom and a cup of coffee,was sitting at the picnic table when Tenderfeet amd Packmule came up,we talked for a good while and at 11:15 we figured if we were gonna get across the valley we'd better go.It was quite the easy walk,saw a lot of wildlife today,..a big deer ran accross the trail in front of me and I saw 3 ground hogs..I said Phil what are you doing here?I really could have done without the cow pasture and all of that mudd.The view from the rock beach was amazing,I couldn't believe how far we had walkedWe are tented at Darlington Shelter,Dutch was there and we met two new hikers going to Maine,L.T. and Dirty Harry...nice guysAnyway in the tent now and ready for lights out.Its Duncannon and the Doyle tomorrow,I can't wait to do laundry               TOMORROW IS A                      New Day
Date: 2008-05-26
From: Darlington Shelter

To: Duncannon
Miles today: 11.4
Weather: clear sky

Happy Memorial Day! Today is the begining of summer!Started heading to Duncannon at 8:30 AM. All of the shelter folks were a little quiet so I slept a litte late.Had a few little rock scrambles that weren't fun. Mainly ause I ripped my shoe on them. Damn and less than 100 miles on them.We got into town at 1PM and headed for the Doyel. After checking in we did lunch and had lunch or an early dinner. Pat & Vicki were closing the kitchen at 6PM and the bar at 8PM.We went for our resupply and then I showered cause I had clean dry clothes.Called Old School and he and the kids were at my moms for a BBQ. I asked him what he was doing on his 2 days off. He asked me why do you want me to come see you?But of course. So he said he'd be on his way in a while. Now i'm so excited I bet I won't be able to sleep!                              TOMORROW IS A......                                    New Day
Date: 2008-05-27
From: Duncannon

To: US Route 22/322
Miles today: 1.8

Told you I wouldn't be able to sleep.Finally crashed about 12:30AM and was awake by 5AM.I called Old School to see where he was and then went to Goodies for a cup of coffee.I went back to my room and about 6:30 my man showed up. We woke up B-Rad and got ready to leave.After breakfast at Goodies, B-Rad and I did the 1.8 mile road walk out of town.Other than a zero, thats been my shortest day yet.We found a Super 8 motel and was checked in and lounging by 11AM. Thats what I call roughin it.Anyway it felt good to do almost nothing for a day.We ate dinner at Wendys and was back in the room chillin for the rest of the night. Sure was nice to see my baby!                        TOMORROW IS A........                                 New Day
Date: 2008-05-28
From: US Route 22/322

To: Campsite at spring
Miles today: 15.6

Said goodbye to Old School at 11AM and was back on the trail. Ha! Ha! Tell Mom and Erica i'm still headin North. They thought i'd come home.The climb up was tiring, but not bad. There are switchbacks.Climbed over a bunch of rocks today, what else is new.We were at Peters Mountain shelter by 3:20PM..It's too early to stop, but not enough time to get to Rausch Gap so we just looked for a campsite.Unfortnally I don't have a signal so I couldn't talk with Old School. I hate ending the day without saying goodnight and I love you.                              TOMORROW IS A......                                    NEW DAY