Now that I look at it the power was off the other night and the clock didn’t update I guess. it was 7:30. I also have nothing better to do than screw off here. You should see Leif’s posts; 2:45am etc. There’s someone who needs a life.:tongue
Bushwhack
I echo everything here, with a vengeance. Read some of my post-trail ramblings - www.trailjournals.com/blueberry
At least I know within this small sector of society, I’m pretty normal 
But a plan for after the hike, yes, now there’s a good idea. Something I totally didn’t/couldn’t/wouldn’t do. And now here I am, wallowing around trying to figure out how to mesh the two: real/hiking/outside world with our culture and my marriage. Don’t go back to your old job is all I have to say, just quit and take your chances. You only owe it to yourself to be true.
Bluebearee
I haven’t been able to do a thru-hike yet, or much hiking of any kind for that matter lately, because of committments to women in my life and resulting financial demands. The result is that I find it harder and harder to get any work done. I stay up late at night, get little sleep, and let things slide during the workday. I absolutely hate my profession (legal) and the urban lifestyle, but can’t just up and leave the women I love. Maybe they’ll understand if I take off for a few months, but coming back and resuming the modern lifestyle … UGH! 
Kathy mentioned Friends of the Forest, is that an outfit you can get a job in and feel good about yourself?
Jumble Jowls
so i’m thinking you should introduce these numerous females to each other and i’ll bet they’ll get along jus fine w/out ya. maybe they’ll take off for a thru hike b4 you. if you work for friends of the forest they make you wear this little elf hat. that is the downside.
hell yeah
JJ, don’t get too hung up on the AT. It’s just another trail, and an overused one at that. Try and get outside this weekend and enjoy the outdoors, whereever you are. The AT isn’t going anywhere. Anyway, if you’re depressed BEFORE your hike, I hate to think how you’ll be afterwards.
Little Bear
Do something, as the wife says. That perks me up even when she has to drag me out of the house. Ramen and peas, but it still isn’t food.
Bushwhack
is that 2 girlfriends AND 2 wives, or one of each? or 2 combination girlfriend/wives? inquiring minds want to know…
hell yeah
When I quit my job next year to hike the Colorado trail I will be scooting on down to florida to do the ECT. After wards it is back to Texas to spend the winter then I will be off to the PCT. After that, Hell, I don’t know maybe a walk down the road.
Spacewalker