morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2007-03-20
To: Small Feet?
Miles today: 0.0

Soo today I went on a nice little day hike in the Bigs... Up thea in Carabasset Valley, ME.... hiking just a tid of the AT... a very small tid to be exact. But it was very eye opening because well frankly I am a klutz. I like to blame my feet, they are rather small for my body size. I think it really has a lot to do with why I fall, and trip all the time. I have been told by a friend that I am fun to hike with because, I am always on the ground or nearly falling ... I am not sure if comic releif is always a bad thing haha. Granted there was a bunch of snow and that always makes for a bit tougher trek... but just something I need to be aware of. Good treking poles are key. The cheap-o's I have now are pretty bent and have some tough time staying in their place. So that is part of my to buy and update list. I pretty much have everything I need but the weight of my older gear and trip leading gear tends to be huge and heavy. So as of right now... a few things I am thinking about updating would be... a smaller and lighter pack, a sweet tarptent, possibly a different stove... (Some really awesome guy made mine and sent it to me for free!!) its an alcohol can stove but I am thinking of getting a newer more fancy one, also I am really thinking about getting a Steripen, I have not really heard a lot about them... however they were tested here at the University of Maine. SO if umaine says its cool and does its job.. then I think it could be sweet... and really that is about it.. oh some more dry-stuff sacs... ohh gear.. what fun.Horray less then a year.. I am a bit geeky yes I know. Oh I have been reading some great journals this season... so addicting.. Certian especially has a great attitude I hope she makes it all the way~!
Date: 2007-04-18
To: April Showers...
Miles today: 0.0

Up here in Maine, we got hit with the same crappy weather the rest of the east coast recieved. The only difference being, it was here stuck by a great low pressure system for nearly 5 days. During this chilly, and windy April rain event I thought a lot about the 07's hiking right now. I also thought a lot about next year and how interesting 5 days of crazy weather might effect my hike. I have been stuck in crappy weather before, however usually knowing that within several days I will be able to be dry and warm. Come to think about it, it can be the same way on my hike, hostels and motels are all along the trail. See? I think this crazy thought process is normal, and like other irrational things that have been in my head trying to talk myself out of this amazing adventure... it too will pass. I really want to do this. I want to enjoy nature, spend time getting to explore the East Coast in a very different way. I want to be able to live in the moment. Who knows why I want to do this really, I just do. And that is that. Now I have to get back to thinking about tarptent or Hammock... I know I am not the only person thinking about this as I have been reading about it a lot on WB and in fellow hikers journals. So far I am really leaning towards a tent. who knows... it's still early and gear is always changing ??
Date: 2007-08-25
To: AT love...
Miles today: 0.0

This past week I spent some time traveling around Maine. Camp got over last Saturday, and so I was looking forward to seeing the sites. I was able to hit up many places but the one that sticks in my mind the most was Isleboro. While my friend Tom and I decided to go on a biking adventure to the island we were not yet aware of the crazyness that was to come. We traveled around the island, and later found we missed the last ferry to the main land. We had to make up a new plan as we were stuck on the island till 7:30am the next day. We planned to stealth camp, as you are not "allowed" to camp on the island. But crazily enough a former camper and his parents caught up with us and told us we could camp on their property. Not only did they give us a wonderfully large tent to sleep in but also invited us into their home. We talked about many things but somehow my hike came up, and I was asked many questions by Owen, (hopefully they were correct) because come to find out he and his wife had both hiked the trail. Wow crazy small world we live in. He and his wife Beth shared many great stories and information with us. It seems as though the trail has a way of creating magic, well before you even step foot on the trail. It was a great connection to make, as well as a great surprise. Thanks Owen and Beth for your great "trail magic." I will be in touch for the great dehydrated food ideas!
Date: 2007-10-27
To: It's all Happening!
Miles today: 0.0

As a "poor" college student I have decided to take out a loan for my adventure. I feel that this journey is quite possibly more of an education for me than my 4ish years of college. Who knows, what will become of it? So a few days ago I got the green light that my loan was processed... which means. THIS IS REAL... I am really going to make this happen right now, and that is just... it's just so freaking awesome. I have been walking around with a perma-grin plastered to my face, telling people... "IT'S REALLY GOING TO HAPPEN." Everyone, my friends, family, and coworkers have been sooo supportive of me, and this trip. I've received hugs, and had great discussions about gear with many people who I know could really care less about the difference between a tarptent or a hammock.. But they smile and share in my joy, and that really means the world to me.    I always use the saying "everything happens for a reason," the good or the bad... I really do truly believe this.. and I think that YES, it's all falling into place as it should. This is going to happen.. it's supposed to happen this way. As the time flies by between now and March 19... I just can't help but yell out a line from one of my favorite cheesy movies... "It's ALL HAPPENING!"
Date: 2007-10-31
To: Happy Halloween!
Miles today: 0.0

Happy Halloween!I thought about heading to some gatherings as a Thru Hiker.. (ya know not shower for a week or so, roll around in some dirt, run through some prickerbush so I could look a bit more hardcore...) Instead I decided on the next best thing.. a Lumberjack. You know good old carharts and flannel shirts... they are very close to being one in the same. 5 weeks left of teaching... so much to think about... gear, food drops, plans on getting to Springer. I just cannot believe how fast it's going.. Tomorrow is November 1st.. gesh! SO much to do so little time. I just need to let it go.. things will work out as they should, why rush it. One thing at a time right?On another note:I ran across this song today... by Brandi Carlile... it's called "Have You Ever." It makes me think of days yet to come.. and that is awesomeHave you ever wandered lonely through the woods?And everything there feels just as it shouldYou're part of the life thereYou're part of something goodIf you've ever wandered lonely through the woodsIf you've ever wandered lonely through the woodsHave you ever stared into a starry sky?Lying on your back you're asking whyWhat's the purpose I wonder who am IIf you've ever stared into a starry skyHave you ever stared into a starry skyHave you ever been out walking in the snow?Tried to get back where you were beforeYou always end up not knowing where to goIf you've ever been out walking in the snowIf you'd ever been out walking you would know
Date: 2007-11-13
To: Gear'n Up
Miles today: 0.0

Yes, my rad Tarptent- Rainbow came in the mail yesterday... what a great thing to receive on your day off. I am going to seam seal it tomorrow, so I will get to play with it a bit more. I sold my old weighty beast (7lbs) to a pal at work, which was bittersweet. That old tent and I have traveled the country side, but it was just to much weight.. I lost 5 lbs by going with the rainbow. I ordered a warmer down jacket for the colder months, yesterday. I tend to get a bit chilly, so this will be a great addition to my gear. I am still trying to decide on a cold sleeping bag. I have a great summer bag which is light and just what I will need.. But I am thinking a 15* down... but the right one has not found me yet.. or vice versa. So much is going on and I still have not really sat down and hashed out any food drops.. or even how I am getting to Springer.. but still one step at a time. I just have to be done with student teaching, college, and all that goes along with it to find the time to do these things. Another bittersweet transition. On another note, my pal recently sent me an email that I thought I would share part of... just because it brought a smile to my face. "You are really going to hike the entire Appalachian Trail by yourself???? That is a tremendous task! I'm impressed by your drive. I've been looking at some maps of the AT (instead of working!!) and it is a really long way!!" The funny thing is, later in the letter he tells me that he would be more than interested in hiking the Smokies with me haha so.. how crazy am I really? I still love the crazy reactions from my friends and family.Keep on keepin on.. Only 4 months and 6 days.
Date: 2007-11-28
To: Less than two weeks...
Miles today: 0.0

So here it is, nearly December and life has been flying by. Less than two weeks left of student teaching and college. How crazy is that? Right after that(literally 2 days) I'll jump right into some travel, finally getting a chance to see the western part of our country. I am flying out to San Diego and then eventually working my way to Wisconsin via a very touristy path. Vegas, Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, and Colorado all on the list of sites. Then it is back to my roots. I was born and raised in a good sized town in Wisconsin, and I am planning on saving a few bucks by staying with my mum (hopefully finding a job or subbing in the school system) till March... when I agreed to go to a music festival in Florida with a good friend of mine. (I know this isn't the smartest way to save money before a Thur hike but.. well... you only live once.. and I seem to always have my plate full of new ideas and adventures.) After the festival (which has a pretty stellar line up...) I am going to hang out in NH for a few days/weeks getting myself together. Finally come March 19th... Springer Mountain here I come. It is all just going so fast.. I really cannot wait till everything is how it needs to be. I hope everyone had a nice Turkey day.. and I sure hope the rains reach the East soon. Until next time...p.s. A big thanks to those of you who have signed my guest book, and have offered their knowledge and support. Once this crazy mess of finishing up school is sorted out I will be getting in touch. You are not forgotten, but much appreciated! Thanks again!
Date: 2007-12-09
To: 100 days.
Miles today: 0.0

Ah yes, a very monumental day for me.. 100 days till the start of my adventure. It may sound like a very long time, but trust me¢¦ it¢s not. There is still so much to do, but here is the kicker¢¦ I am now (well actually tomorrow when I turn in my portfolio) done with school! After my traveling adventure out west I will finally have some time to settle down and figure things out. I had a going away gathering on Friday, where I explained my plans to people. I definitely received many good looks. Many friends also said they would meet up with me along the trail, especially when I get to Maine. My students gave me the wide eyed look and said ¢you are really going to hike from Georgia to Maine?¢ hehe fourth graders are the best!I have however finally decided on getting to Springer. My friend Goody and I are going to a music festival in Southern Florida at the beginning of March. We are driving there from the Northeast. He told me he would drop me off in the area as he heads back up to Maine.. pretty awesome friend right? I know the whole music festival before a long hike may seem a bit crazy, it probably is. However music is very important to me, especially live music, so I am viewing this as a pep rally. Plus no showering for a week, sleeping in tent cities, and cooking all my food on my stove will be a wonderful warm up for the trail.On another note, I have decided on my cold weather sleeping bag, the Marmot Phantom 15* down bag. I have the Phantom down jacket and now the bag. I have looked long and hard but I think this is going to be the best bag for me. When I sleep at home I keep the heat down and I love to pile on the blankets, so I think the 15* rating is the best choice. I have also ordered a Steripen from the company, and it has yet to arrive. I am going with this for several reasons but one of the biggest I guess would be that it was invented by a Maine fella who went to a Maine college ¢COA.¢ It was tested at UMaine and I try to help out local business. I used them last summer with the kiddos at camp on the trail, I have also heard several wonderful accounts of its use on the trail.Well that is it for now. I am off to California on Wednesday, and then my traveling adventure begins. Happy holidays and be safe!
Date: 2008-01-16
To: It's all in your Brain!
Miles today: 0.0

While making my regular rounds on the whiteblaze website today I came upon a very interesting thread. "Mental Preparation" was the title, and it was very interesting to see what everyone posted. Along with all the exciting gear and physical preparations that need to be made for a thru attempt, many people forget about the mental part. Although I have talked a little bit about my own philosophy in previous entries I feel that it might benefit not only myself but you the reader a glimpse into my own thinking.    I have spent the last 4 summers working at summer camps. I have also spent the past four years working and playing for an outdoor "adventure center." With that I have been fortunate enough to experience some pretty amazing things. I have been on a 2 week sea kayaking / driving adventure in the Everglades, canoed both the Moose River and the St. George River, backpacked portions of the AT all over New England, hiked in South Africa, and lead amazing trips with kids, teens, and adults all over the place. I have gotten to experience nature at its finest. I have lived through heat, rain, snow, hurricane, and beautiful sun. My most memorable experiences have been in the "worst" of conditions. I was co-leading a backpacking trip deep in Baxter State Park when the remnants of Hurricane Katrina hit, oh that beautiful rain. I have sat huddled on my sleeping pad as a lightning storm was right above me. I have seen awesome snow storms hit, and although cold I enjoyed the falling snow and whipping wind. I have also seen the sun, and the beautiful rainbows that come after a storm.    If having "lived" through all of that I will have to remind myself that although things seem bad sometimes, they are never really "that" bad. I do not have cancer, I am not starving, my family is healthy, and most of all this is what I want to do. I am simply out enjoying an amazing opportunity.   I also plan on using my sense of humor, as they say "laughter is often the best medicine." And if that does not work, well I will wait it out. Things are bound to be rough at times, that is what makes this adventure more interesting and enjoyable. Hopefully I can pull from the rough times and learn from them later on. On a whole different note: I went into the EMS yesterday in Lebanon, NH. I was just browsing for a few of the finishing touches (plus I really love gear stores!) I ended up looking at the shoes and finding a great pair. As I was talking about what I needed the shoes for the AT came up. As it turned out my service guy Derek is also planning on hitting the trail in April. I had a great time talking trail stuff and he was very informative about shoes. I got a sweet pair of Merrell's that are a size 7! (I normally wear around a 6) But these are perfect with my thicker socks and still have enough room in the toe box for my feet. I think they will be very happy with the shoe as it seemed very supportive and comfortable. So yah for new shoes and Yay for cool EMS workers who plan on hiking. Thanks Venture and good luck!
Date: 2008-01-28
To: Ramblings of a Rambler
Miles today: 0.0

Well lets see.. it was a wonderful day outside today. Finally reached a temperature higher than -15. Don't get me wrong I really love the freaking cold weather. I have honestly missed it while on the East coast, I really enjoyed making fun of my friends when 22 was bone chilling... Anyway I got to get outside to really stretch my lazy legs. I have not been doing much in terms of physical preparations.. which I know is really dumb. So today I am going to turn a leaf. I am going to get out rain, snow, cold, icebox, or any other weather that hits me. I have also decided to hit part of the Ice Age Trail here in Wisconsin for some fun prep hikes. Most of the trail sections near me are kinda small loops but I'll make them work. I think that is just what I need.. some fresh air and my tarptent.    This life as an unemployed person is still driving me nutty. I have thought about getting a temp job that I can easily drop with no reservations... so I am thinking fast food or a grocery store.. something with a high turn over rate... that way I wont feel like such a lame-o for leaving. On the gear front... today I was really excited to receive my Appalachian Pages guide book... I will finally be able to really plan some things out... although really compared to everyone else I think I am the most un-planed. I like it that way though.. Who knows how fast I'll travel in the beginning... So with that a rough sketch will be fine... I guess. But I am very excited and LOVE the layout of the book. Thanks ATTroll and AWOL... I am very eager to use your book.. Also last week my pocket mail device came in the mail.. a lovely purchase on ebay.. after months of looking It was found for 99cents.. brand new.. okay I'll take it. I am going to wait until next month to sign up for the service... I have heard it will take a while to set up over the phone so yeah next month it is. On a completely different note... trail safety. Now a very good chunk of my family and close friends have suggested something different.. from a small handgun, to pepper spray, to Elliott's Idea of a big club.. haha Now seriously people, you all know me (well some of you do). Lets think about how klutzy I am. I'll somehow shoot myself, or spray myself with something or another. Plus having this kind of stuff probably stuffed somewhere in my pack seems rather useless. So here it is, I am going to RISK it.. may it bite me in the bum... I will feel much safer with the sweet tips on the bottom of my trekking poles than any other form of "protection." However I do appreciate your concern.. I know you care about me.. and that means a lotwell that is all... just sitting here pondering that in One month and 19 days... I will be down in GA.. living out a dream. How cool is that?
Date: 2008-02-07
To: Times a changing... 
Miles today: 0.0

Change.. Change.. Change...   Well lets see.. a few updates on the way. My ride south, Matt is no longer going to an Ultimate Frisbee tournament after our festival in Florida. Which means... I will be hitting the trail much sooner than March 19th. Perhaps sometime around the 11th or 12th I'll be trail bound. I am actually kind of excited to be starting earlier than I had planed. All this anticipation is driving me nutty. Thus tonight I start my new job. Now I know I am doing this all backward, usually people quit their jobs before a Thru... I got a new one.. But its the type of job I will be able to quit with few regrets. This is also why I didn't mind being paid minimum wage when I knew I could have and should be paid much more for a night time job. It is a give and take right? On the gear front I decided to pass on my old precip rain jacket that desperately needs to be re-waterproofed... It has been a great jacket but I think something a bit longer would be better... and thus while looking at Gander Mountain today I found a pair of Frogg Toggs for $12, and better yet they were 30% off... so I got a new jacket and some pants for pretty much the same price of some new waterproofer. I also got my trail pants (thanks mom).. I have my old trek pants however they already have their holes from campfires or other hazards of trip leading SO new ones cant hurt right? Well I am nearly off to work. Here is hoping it's a good night.
Date: 2008-02-22
To: a trip to the gear mecca
Miles today: 0.0

Today I celebrated my birthday a little early.. by taking a lovely trip to Patagonia and a HUGE REI. I went to the lovely Twin Cities to visit my friend and still needed to finish up a few gear items. I probably spent a little more money than I should have but well.. it was great. I got some new trekking poles (well actually my mom did, as a b-day gift) that seem to be okay, regardless of some bad reviews I have read. They are lighter and have anti-shock where as my old ones are pretty banged up and lack anti-shock. I also got a few more dry sacks as well as this funky one that allows air to escape from the bag while still being waterproof... I plan to use that one for my sleeping bag and down jacket. I also got my really rad cooking pot. A new GSI soloist which has a great lexan top that has a strainer. It came with a cup, however I plan on leaving this at home. Also got some socks and a great warm layer, that has a hood and thumb holes. I really wish they put thumb holes on all shirts. Seriously the first person to add them to clothing was genius. I really love all of my other thumby shirts, and this one is even a bit on the pinkish side. Very cool. That really brings all of my gear to an end. Tomorrow my mom and I are going to create a sleeping bag liner. I refuse to spend $50-60 on one. We found this fun, crazy colored, light weight fabric. It will be a great project for us to work on together. I'll let you know how it turns out as well as showing you a final picture.   It was a wonderful way to spend a day. This time next week I'll be getting ready to head back to the East Coast. Although the temps have been bitterly cold this past few weeks, I know I'll miss it. Matt and I are planning on leaving New England on the 3rd, and heading down to S. Florida. The festival starts on the 6th, and I can't wait for the live music! And then... POOF! The BIG Hike. It is so close, and finally here. I have been waiting for this moment for a long time... YES!
Date: 2008-03-01
To: YAY March.
Miles today: 0.0

Happy March 1st... I am off to NH, on another whirlwin tour of the North. It seems as though I have been doing this trip a lot lately. Monday Matt and I will leave NH for FL... the festival starts on the sixth. I'll be rocking this time next week to the likes of Ben Folds, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, and of course Perpetual Groove. SO wonderful if you ask me.. then poof.. some random time after that it is too the trail! I am a mixed bag of emotions when it comes to that. Anywhere from Excited, to Nervous, to Wow, I cannot beleieve it is finally here. Soon I will be able to wake up in the morning and worry about hiking and enjoying nature. Pretty rad indeed. Here it goes, adventure starts here and now...