The Most Important Thing

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#1

Many times, it seems to me that most of our time on these forums is spent needlessly fretting over the little things. Realize that a thru hike is not made by how many feet of duct tape you send yourself in every maildrop, or if you have a pack that is 5 ounces lighter than mine, or even if you use trekking poles or not. Rather, it is made by having fun. I admire the person who realizes that hiking for six months is not what they want to do. Granted, it is not for everyone. And I admire that same person when they decide to leave the trail, for whatever the reason. If you’re not having fun, go do something that you will enjoy more. Enjoy your life, have a good time. I guess there is no real point to this post, and it really doesn’t even require a response. Hike the trail in your own form (even if that means not finishing) and enjoy yourself!

Hungry Howie Ga-mE 2000

Hungry Howie

#2

Two snaps up, Howie! When I hit the woods it’s like taking an hour long hot shower. All the crud washes off. The last trip I was on I, yes me a seasoned 'packer, I forgot the tent poles. Oops. It was only fifty that nite and after finding a quiet spot( park was FULL of leaf peepers)we just lay under the stars and blinding brite moon all nite listening to owls and critter crawling in the leaves around us and seeing how many stars fir into a hole in the canopy. I love how the forest comes alive if we listen to it. Just because we have clothes, cars and houses doesn’t meen that we are any different then the other species that we share the planet with. Ever been dive bombed by a Barred Owl in the silence of a snow fall? Had a huge one swoosh me from behind walking down an old animal path at 11pm with the moon coming and going between snow showers. Never heard him until his feathers brushed my bare head and he landed on stump not twenty feet from me twisted his head 180 degrees and sceetched at me. I felt just like a mouse on the dinner plate. A rare site indeed. You had to be there. So the next time you hit the trail stop for that nap, take a plunge in the icy water, take the side trail/animal trail and see wassup. Ever trip on a deer bedded down? That WILL make you pee your self. How about we start a chat with trail stories. That always gets me glued to the 'ol CRT.

Bushwhwack

#3

I have done all the pre-planning I care to do. Most likely I’ve already over compensated. From here on in it is time to go with the flow knowing that the trail is waiting for me and come what may I’ll head out with spring. I love to sleep under the stars, dip in the waters, sit for a minute or hour enjoying a view, talking with the locals or other hikers, watch a mouse go after a crumb… I am not in competetion with anyone and have no deadline or set in stone itinerary, other then Mt Katahdin by 10/15. I look forward to my journey. --hamockhngr

hamockhngr