Well, the questions keep coming in due to the curiosity of my friends. I even had someone ask me this week if I had to hunt for my own food while out in the mountains. Not exactly. If they knew me better they would know that I haven’t shot a gun newer then 1863 in decades and hunting isn’t really my thing. It’s pretty hard to explain to someone from Texas what the Appalachian Mountains are all about because Texans consider mountains to be those hilly bumps over near Stephenville. On the other end, all my New Hampshire friends think that the AT (remember what AT means?) is like Mount Washington with all of its rigorous ascents and descents. Nope, not exactly again. I can not do justice to this trail with any personal explanation so I figured I would let National Geographic do it for me.
Click on this to view my 2010:
http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/episode/appalachian-trail-3591/Videos/07338_00#tab-Videos/07338_00
Monday, October 26, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Rat Race- Living Life
Click on or copy and paste the link at the bottom of this. This is a song by John Fegyveresi who hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2007. This is one of a couple of themes I have for hiking this trail. This is a really good song and it seems to explain some of what I am going through. Some of you might feel this way too.
Listen to the whole thing including the little story at the beginning. Tell me if this makes sense to you. I think this song was best when I closed my eyes and just listened.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JNsxciHN7w&feature=PlayList&p=CC61B02DBB1D79FF
Listen to the whole thing including the little story at the beginning. Tell me if this makes sense to you. I think this song was best when I closed my eyes and just listened.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JNsxciHN7w&feature=PlayList&p=CC61B02DBB1D79FF
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Truly Inspiring
It has become clear why I have started writing this far in advance of my trip. I am obviously on more than one journey right now. To be honest, I can’t clearly pin point what exactly this journey is. Maybe that’s why so many of my friends are open to talk to me about this…maybe they are on some kind of journey themselves. I’m not really sure but I can tell you right now I am truly learning a lot about my friends’ character.
I think the most inspiring thing thus far has definitely been everyone’s willingness to help me in some capacity. Anything from lending me equipment to helping me set up some kind of charity, all the way to offering to walk with me for a few days to keep me company. It’s truly inspiring to me when people offer what they can in order to help people. Honestly, I think my friends are a microcosm of society contrary to popular belief. I really truly honestly think that people as a whole are willing to help and not just their friends but strangers. We get caught up in believing that selfishness and cruelty plague this world courtesy of our media. I just see too much good in people to believe that we are caught up in a horrible world.
I really hope that this trip gets people to help in one capacity or another. Not necessarily helping me but helping one another. I’m not one of those hippie world peace types (not that there’s anything wrong with that) but I truly hope that people will help. For those of us that just can’t financially give there are other ways to help. You can help me on this trip by volunteering at your local church or community organization. Sounds hokie but it really does go a long way especially for those people you are helping. Even if you volunteer once for two hours at your local Salvation Army on one lowly Saturday morning you have helped me accomplish my trip. For football, I once volunteered at a Salvation Army serving food and it was awesome to see people be so thankful. It made me look around at some of my teammates and wish they had that same humbleness. I can’t say that my personal volunteer record is this awesome account of every free hour of my day goes to volunteering and charity. No, its not but I am slowly but surely making strides to impact the people around me with doing what I can to help others. It’s important to realize that God has us on this earth to help one another. So, again, whether people donate their time, money, ideas or just anything to anyone or organization that helps one another is what makes my trip a success.
So for those that have volunteered anything to me I say thank you and I really appreciate you. For others, I say I need your help in one way or another. Just do me a favor, think about anything you can give back to this awesome world we live in. I will help you in any way I can.
Matthew 5 read it
I think the most inspiring thing thus far has definitely been everyone’s willingness to help me in some capacity. Anything from lending me equipment to helping me set up some kind of charity, all the way to offering to walk with me for a few days to keep me company. It’s truly inspiring to me when people offer what they can in order to help people. Honestly, I think my friends are a microcosm of society contrary to popular belief. I really truly honestly think that people as a whole are willing to help and not just their friends but strangers. We get caught up in believing that selfishness and cruelty plague this world courtesy of our media. I just see too much good in people to believe that we are caught up in a horrible world.
I really hope that this trip gets people to help in one capacity or another. Not necessarily helping me but helping one another. I’m not one of those hippie world peace types (not that there’s anything wrong with that) but I truly hope that people will help. For those of us that just can’t financially give there are other ways to help. You can help me on this trip by volunteering at your local church or community organization. Sounds hokie but it really does go a long way especially for those people you are helping. Even if you volunteer once for two hours at your local Salvation Army on one lowly Saturday morning you have helped me accomplish my trip. For football, I once volunteered at a Salvation Army serving food and it was awesome to see people be so thankful. It made me look around at some of my teammates and wish they had that same humbleness. I can’t say that my personal volunteer record is this awesome account of every free hour of my day goes to volunteering and charity. No, its not but I am slowly but surely making strides to impact the people around me with doing what I can to help others. It’s important to realize that God has us on this earth to help one another. So, again, whether people donate their time, money, ideas or just anything to anyone or organization that helps one another is what makes my trip a success.
So for those that have volunteered anything to me I say thank you and I really appreciate you. For others, I say I need your help in one way or another. Just do me a favor, think about anything you can give back to this awesome world we live in. I will help you in any way I can.
Matthew 5 read it
Monday, October 19, 2009
Sometimes People Think You Are Crazy….
And theres nothing you can do about it. I’m starting to realize that in order to take chances you have to come to the conclusion that not everyone is on your same page. That doesn’t mean that they are negative or holding you back but you just don’t always get the desired answer or approval. What can you do about it? You just have to stick to what you believe in even if its not someone else’s cup of coffee.
I’ve brought up my idea of doing this AT journey to raise money to people and its funny how people have all wondered the same thing: how this is possible? I don’t really know. I just finished writing a letter to my church describing what I wish to happen out of this walk and seeking their help or at least their advice. By doing that I have kind of realized who I want to help out and why.
A lot of us grew up with a lot of opportunities that many people do not have. We consider a bad day when it took us 5 minutes extra to get home from work or when we realize that our favorite shirt has a hole in it. We take a lot of things for granted.
I think its very important to help kids…especially young looking for role models. What better way to shape a young kid then to show him by example how to follow their dreams, especially through church. I would love to raise money for disadvantaged children who don’t have all the same opportunities as we do.
Kids need positive role models who not only talk the talk but walk the walk. People who are positive and lead by example. My church built this multi million dollar camp for kids to attend during the summer but in order to maintain it it requires a lot of financial resources. I want to be able to raise money to send some kids there so that maybe they can grow up with purpose and guidance.
I really don’t know how or if anyone would help with this. I just know that if your passionate about something and care deeply enough you will find a way. Directly, this could really benefit a kid. Indirectly, this could really benefit anyone around these kids. I don’t know, I just feel that this could be a great opportunity for some children.
Again, I’m just thinking out loud.
Matthew 7:7-8 - Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
I’ve brought up my idea of doing this AT journey to raise money to people and its funny how people have all wondered the same thing: how this is possible? I don’t really know. I just finished writing a letter to my church describing what I wish to happen out of this walk and seeking their help or at least their advice. By doing that I have kind of realized who I want to help out and why.
A lot of us grew up with a lot of opportunities that many people do not have. We consider a bad day when it took us 5 minutes extra to get home from work or when we realize that our favorite shirt has a hole in it. We take a lot of things for granted.
I think its very important to help kids…especially young looking for role models. What better way to shape a young kid then to show him by example how to follow their dreams, especially through church. I would love to raise money for disadvantaged children who don’t have all the same opportunities as we do.
Kids need positive role models who not only talk the talk but walk the walk. People who are positive and lead by example. My church built this multi million dollar camp for kids to attend during the summer but in order to maintain it it requires a lot of financial resources. I want to be able to raise money to send some kids there so that maybe they can grow up with purpose and guidance.
I really don’t know how or if anyone would help with this. I just know that if your passionate about something and care deeply enough you will find a way. Directly, this could really benefit a kid. Indirectly, this could really benefit anyone around these kids. I don’t know, I just feel that this could be a great opportunity for some children.
Again, I’m just thinking out loud.
Matthew 7:7-8 - Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Help Me Help Others
Hiking the Appalachian Trail is a monumental task and can be overwhelming if you don’t properly prepare. All of the preparation, physically, mentally, financially, and logistically has consumed my mind for the last couple of weeks. But I don’t want to lose focus of what I am really intending to accomplish with this hike. So far, I have only written about personal goals and what I hope to accomplish on a personal level. However, I would like to make known the real purpose of this journey. A lot of my peers will understand this but a lot just won’t grasp this concept or intention.
I’m trying to find a way to do this and to make this work. I want to give back. I want this trip to be about more than just me and my personal journey. I just don’t know how. Strength and persistence will be a major theme on my hike but it will also apply this idea of giving back. I would like to get my church, Fellowship Church, involved. Since minute one of me thinking of this and starting to prepare I have wanted to do this so that it will benefit others. How can a personal trip help to benefit others? Well, I really truly believe that people can take more away from this than just a good ole pat on the back for Greg Stevenson. I don’t want to do this as just an accomplishment for myself but as an accomplishment for everyone.
How can this benefit other people? Well, I need help in that department. I really want to get my church involved. I have told a few people this and they are kind of puzzled about the logistics of how this can be accomplished. I have one idea but it takes a lot of help.
First, why do I want to help other people with this? I have a true compassion for people who are in need; people who are in true need of a fellow human being’s help. True, the Appalachian Trail is a huuuuuuge struggle but it is miniscule in comparison of what people who are in need go through. Christianity is all about helping others. I believe that God can use me to help others with this. This might not be a uniform way to help but I believe it can work.
MY IDEA: What if I were to do this for some charitable cause? I know a lot of people have done tons of things for specific charities like Breast Cancer Awareness, Habitat for Humanity. What if I could do it for EVERYONE? Wait, what are you talking about, Greg? This is my goal….to line up some kind of way to set up charity through my church. For instance, people donating whatever amount they want for how many miles I walk. Like if someone donates a dime for every mile I walk, and I finish, in the end that’s roughly $218. I mean, if more than one person were to do that it would tally up in the end. Say ten people donated a dime for every mile I walk…that’s a couple of thousand dollars. Even if someone donated a penny for every mile, that’s still giving. That can really change one person’s life.
THE GOAL: No, this is not a get rich quick scheme. This is for others. If this can help at least one person then I have accomplished my goal. I hope and pray that I can figure out a way to do this. It would be my goal, through the help of others, that people would give through the goodness of their hearts and through God so that those less fortunate can benefit. If I had the help of the church people could just give directly to the church. I would not even see or touch the money. If the church wanted I would do this anonymously so that it would show that I am seeking no fame or fortune through this journey. I truly truly truly to the millionth power believe that people would see this as a good and fun donating opportunity. If I knew that I was doing this for others I would definitely have more inspiration to finish the trail on those tough, down and out days.
Why would people be interested in giving or helping with this? First, to know that their donations would help others. Second, I fully intend on taking short Youtube clips and pictures along the way. I think I could truly make it entertaining for people to follow and have them experience what I am going through along the trail. This would also serve as proof of the miles I walk and the struggles I will go through. I believe I can make this very relatable to the average person as I am aware that not everyone has a passion for hiking.
I hope this does not come off as crazy but in a way this is a good crazy. Sometimes you just have to take a major chance to make a difference in someone else’s life. I think I can do just that. I want this and I think that I can do some great help to other people. I want nothing more to help others. I know it’s crazy to think that something like the Appalachian Trail can benefit others because it’s such a personal journey…but God will find a way. As a Christian, I believe in helping others in any way possible. I also believe when someone’s intentions are right with God goodness will prevail. It doesn’t make sense to me to do something like this just for myself. I don’t believe I am on this earth to just benefit myself. I want to give back.
I need help. I don’t even know where to start. I guess these journals are my way of expressing my thoughts in an organized manner but if anyone reads this I need your input. This is where I need people’s help; to get me started in the right direction. Although I am seeking my churches help I am also aware that they are very large and have a lot of things on their plate and this might not be one of them. I totally understand that so maybe I can do this on my own or with the help of others (of course through God). All I know is that I want to help others and I could really use your help.
I’m trying to find a way to do this and to make this work. I want to give back. I want this trip to be about more than just me and my personal journey. I just don’t know how. Strength and persistence will be a major theme on my hike but it will also apply this idea of giving back. I would like to get my church, Fellowship Church, involved. Since minute one of me thinking of this and starting to prepare I have wanted to do this so that it will benefit others. How can a personal trip help to benefit others? Well, I really truly believe that people can take more away from this than just a good ole pat on the back for Greg Stevenson. I don’t want to do this as just an accomplishment for myself but as an accomplishment for everyone.
How can this benefit other people? Well, I need help in that department. I really want to get my church involved. I have told a few people this and they are kind of puzzled about the logistics of how this can be accomplished. I have one idea but it takes a lot of help.
First, why do I want to help other people with this? I have a true compassion for people who are in need; people who are in true need of a fellow human being’s help. True, the Appalachian Trail is a huuuuuuge struggle but it is miniscule in comparison of what people who are in need go through. Christianity is all about helping others. I believe that God can use me to help others with this. This might not be a uniform way to help but I believe it can work.
MY IDEA: What if I were to do this for some charitable cause? I know a lot of people have done tons of things for specific charities like Breast Cancer Awareness, Habitat for Humanity. What if I could do it for EVERYONE? Wait, what are you talking about, Greg? This is my goal….to line up some kind of way to set up charity through my church. For instance, people donating whatever amount they want for how many miles I walk. Like if someone donates a dime for every mile I walk, and I finish, in the end that’s roughly $218. I mean, if more than one person were to do that it would tally up in the end. Say ten people donated a dime for every mile I walk…that’s a couple of thousand dollars. Even if someone donated a penny for every mile, that’s still giving. That can really change one person’s life.
THE GOAL: No, this is not a get rich quick scheme. This is for others. If this can help at least one person then I have accomplished my goal. I hope and pray that I can figure out a way to do this. It would be my goal, through the help of others, that people would give through the goodness of their hearts and through God so that those less fortunate can benefit. If I had the help of the church people could just give directly to the church. I would not even see or touch the money. If the church wanted I would do this anonymously so that it would show that I am seeking no fame or fortune through this journey. I truly truly truly to the millionth power believe that people would see this as a good and fun donating opportunity. If I knew that I was doing this for others I would definitely have more inspiration to finish the trail on those tough, down and out days.
Why would people be interested in giving or helping with this? First, to know that their donations would help others. Second, I fully intend on taking short Youtube clips and pictures along the way. I think I could truly make it entertaining for people to follow and have them experience what I am going through along the trail. This would also serve as proof of the miles I walk and the struggles I will go through. I believe I can make this very relatable to the average person as I am aware that not everyone has a passion for hiking.
I hope this does not come off as crazy but in a way this is a good crazy. Sometimes you just have to take a major chance to make a difference in someone else’s life. I think I can do just that. I want this and I think that I can do some great help to other people. I want nothing more to help others. I know it’s crazy to think that something like the Appalachian Trail can benefit others because it’s such a personal journey…but God will find a way. As a Christian, I believe in helping others in any way possible. I also believe when someone’s intentions are right with God goodness will prevail. It doesn’t make sense to me to do something like this just for myself. I don’t believe I am on this earth to just benefit myself. I want to give back.
I need help. I don’t even know where to start. I guess these journals are my way of expressing my thoughts in an organized manner but if anyone reads this I need your input. This is where I need people’s help; to get me started in the right direction. Although I am seeking my churches help I am also aware that they are very large and have a lot of things on their plate and this might not be one of them. I totally understand that so maybe I can do this on my own or with the help of others (of course through God). All I know is that I want to help others and I could really use your help.
Monday, October 12, 2009
For Something Bigger
For Something Bigger
So from all of the questions and comments people have been giving me I have come to the conclusion that what I am doing makes no sense to a lot of people. My first instinct was to try and justify or tell them why I was doing this but the more I spoke the further counter clockwise their head turned. My puzzled audience resembles my Pug when you speak to him a sentence that is longer than three words; he just looks at you and tilts his head undoubtedly thinking “how do I get that chew stick out of his hand?” My friends seem to have almost the same sense of wonder only they’re thinking “This guy is nuts” and the rest is like Charlie Brown’s teacher.
Too many of my friends and peers don’t understand this because they are caught in a life of comfort. No, not the kind of comfort where they get massages, have a butler, and are constantly pampered. That’s not what I am talking about. I’m talking about they are stuck in a “comfortable” job that pays their bills and they are too afraid to leave it because they will not have a sense of security. I have always admired the friends that I have that are truly doing what they are meant to do. They know they are doing right and because they are happy they are good at their jobs. However, a lot of people are caught up in making sure they aren’t unemployed and I get that that and I don’t blame them for doing that. But I gotta be honest with you, that’s not what I am about. I can’t wait for life to happen in a comfortable job because it never will. I want more.
You have to make life happen. Some people understand this early in their adulthood and grab life by the horns. Unfortunately, I got caught up in doing what I was “supposed” to do which is getting a job to pay bills. I’m done with that. In my heart I know I have more to offer. I believe this trip will bring out my life’s potential. I have faith.
A lot of questions are geared towards my future and life after the trail. My response? I don’t know. The shocked look on the recipients face is always of the priceless sort. Let me explain. I have no idea what I want to do but that doesn’t mean I am going to wander through life looking for handouts. I’m going to figure it out. Remember, everyone is different and we all work at different speeds. Don’t forget that God has a plan for us all and we are all destined for great things, big and small. I have ABSOLUTE faith in God and that I will find what it is that I’m supposed to do. I refuse to settle for a job that’s not setting forth my true potential. I truly believe that this trip will bring out what I am supposed to do in life. No, I don’t think anything will be handed to me because of this but I do think that when you sacrifice for something you know is right you do it with an open heart.
For those of you that are caught up in settling for life, remember, life is truly not how much money you make or how much you have in the bank. That stuff is nice but it doesn’t supply you with true happiness. Life is about your relationships and all of the non material things. For those that are making tons of money and doing what you’re supposed to be doing, I say rock on and keep making people happy.
Since I’m not worried for the future then don’t feel bad for me and think and I am a drifter. It just takes some people longer to figure out their purpose than others.
That is just a small reason on why I can quit what I am doing in life, drop my job, quit a sport I love, leave my loved ones, and go hiking…..it’s for something bigger.
So from all of the questions and comments people have been giving me I have come to the conclusion that what I am doing makes no sense to a lot of people. My first instinct was to try and justify or tell them why I was doing this but the more I spoke the further counter clockwise their head turned. My puzzled audience resembles my Pug when you speak to him a sentence that is longer than three words; he just looks at you and tilts his head undoubtedly thinking “how do I get that chew stick out of his hand?” My friends seem to have almost the same sense of wonder only they’re thinking “This guy is nuts” and the rest is like Charlie Brown’s teacher.
Too many of my friends and peers don’t understand this because they are caught in a life of comfort. No, not the kind of comfort where they get massages, have a butler, and are constantly pampered. That’s not what I am talking about. I’m talking about they are stuck in a “comfortable” job that pays their bills and they are too afraid to leave it because they will not have a sense of security. I have always admired the friends that I have that are truly doing what they are meant to do. They know they are doing right and because they are happy they are good at their jobs. However, a lot of people are caught up in making sure they aren’t unemployed and I get that that and I don’t blame them for doing that. But I gotta be honest with you, that’s not what I am about. I can’t wait for life to happen in a comfortable job because it never will. I want more.
You have to make life happen. Some people understand this early in their adulthood and grab life by the horns. Unfortunately, I got caught up in doing what I was “supposed” to do which is getting a job to pay bills. I’m done with that. In my heart I know I have more to offer. I believe this trip will bring out my life’s potential. I have faith.
A lot of questions are geared towards my future and life after the trail. My response? I don’t know. The shocked look on the recipients face is always of the priceless sort. Let me explain. I have no idea what I want to do but that doesn’t mean I am going to wander through life looking for handouts. I’m going to figure it out. Remember, everyone is different and we all work at different speeds. Don’t forget that God has a plan for us all and we are all destined for great things, big and small. I have ABSOLUTE faith in God and that I will find what it is that I’m supposed to do. I refuse to settle for a job that’s not setting forth my true potential. I truly believe that this trip will bring out what I am supposed to do in life. No, I don’t think anything will be handed to me because of this but I do think that when you sacrifice for something you know is right you do it with an open heart.
For those of you that are caught up in settling for life, remember, life is truly not how much money you make or how much you have in the bank. That stuff is nice but it doesn’t supply you with true happiness. Life is about your relationships and all of the non material things. For those that are making tons of money and doing what you’re supposed to be doing, I say rock on and keep making people happy.
Since I’m not worried for the future then don’t feel bad for me and think and I am a drifter. It just takes some people longer to figure out their purpose than others.
That is just a small reason on why I can quit what I am doing in life, drop my job, quit a sport I love, leave my loved ones, and go hiking…..it’s for something bigger.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Sacrifices
It never occurred to me that people would be so intrigued in the sacrifices I would have to make in order to hike the Appalachian Trail nor I was aware that people were so forthcoming with pointing them out either. I think my favorite and most common use of their phrase is when they ask me if I am aware of a certain sacrifice that I am going to have to make. “So what are you going to do without the internet?” Um yeah, how will I ever survive. I guess I am a 2009 survivalist…planning a trip without having internet access. So it dawned on me; what are my biggest sacrifices I am going to have to make?
1. Charlie: My 1 ½ year old Pug Charlie. He’s my little buddy. I am most definitely going to miss my little one but he will be staying with Rudy (my parents Shih Tzu) so I’ll be forgotten from his tiny little brain 30 seconds after I am out of sight.
2. Football: The last several Springs I have been engaged in the epic struggle for men not wanting to give up playing football. Yes, I have been QB for the last three seasons for various different teams throughout the Dallas metroplex. However, I need some time away from sports. Sports have ruled my life and its time for me to seek more out of this life then trying to live out my dreams on the gridiron. One of my all-time dreams was to play quarterback and I got that opportunity in both arena football and regular outdoor football. I was even a part of a championship arena football team that received Super Bowl sized rings. This year after the football season I proceeded on playing baseball for the Dallas Nationals. We stunk but it was good to get out there and play some ball again. I also played tons and tons of flag football as well. So, thank you 2009, you have successfully burned me outta playing sports and allowing me to hike the Appalachian Trail.
3. Comfort: Yup, goodbye comfort. Theres nothing comfortable about long distance hiking. I plan on blisters, bad sleeping conditions, aches and pains, and at times, wanting to cry myself over the next mountain. That is all part of it for me. Suffering like that will teach me some valuable lesson I am sure.
4. Bathing: This one is very low on my list of concerns. Don’t really care much how I smell when I am out on the trail. I’m sure I will offend some unknowing passerby but oh well. This topic is a particular favorite amongst the female species. There reaction to my answer is quite a spectacle in most cases.
5. Loneliness: Nah, there will be tons of hikers along the way. I’m sure I will be able to convince at least one person to come on the trail with me for at least a day hike. Plus, being alone, sorting out my thoughts, ideas, goals, is why I want to do this in the first place.
6. Food: Yup, it’ll get dull but I plan on stopping at every gas station and fast food restaurant along the way.
So that is my current list of sacrifices so far that I feel I am going to have to make. I would like to tell you now that this is an ongoing list so more will be added at a later date.
1. Charlie: My 1 ½ year old Pug Charlie. He’s my little buddy. I am most definitely going to miss my little one but he will be staying with Rudy (my parents Shih Tzu) so I’ll be forgotten from his tiny little brain 30 seconds after I am out of sight.
2. Football: The last several Springs I have been engaged in the epic struggle for men not wanting to give up playing football. Yes, I have been QB for the last three seasons for various different teams throughout the Dallas metroplex. However, I need some time away from sports. Sports have ruled my life and its time for me to seek more out of this life then trying to live out my dreams on the gridiron. One of my all-time dreams was to play quarterback and I got that opportunity in both arena football and regular outdoor football. I was even a part of a championship arena football team that received Super Bowl sized rings. This year after the football season I proceeded on playing baseball for the Dallas Nationals. We stunk but it was good to get out there and play some ball again. I also played tons and tons of flag football as well. So, thank you 2009, you have successfully burned me outta playing sports and allowing me to hike the Appalachian Trail.
3. Comfort: Yup, goodbye comfort. Theres nothing comfortable about long distance hiking. I plan on blisters, bad sleeping conditions, aches and pains, and at times, wanting to cry myself over the next mountain. That is all part of it for me. Suffering like that will teach me some valuable lesson I am sure.
4. Bathing: This one is very low on my list of concerns. Don’t really care much how I smell when I am out on the trail. I’m sure I will offend some unknowing passerby but oh well. This topic is a particular favorite amongst the female species. There reaction to my answer is quite a spectacle in most cases.
5. Loneliness: Nah, there will be tons of hikers along the way. I’m sure I will be able to convince at least one person to come on the trail with me for at least a day hike. Plus, being alone, sorting out my thoughts, ideas, goals, is why I want to do this in the first place.
6. Food: Yup, it’ll get dull but I plan on stopping at every gas station and fast food restaurant along the way.
So that is my current list of sacrifices so far that I feel I am going to have to make. I would like to tell you now that this is an ongoing list so more will be added at a later date.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Moved to the Blogging World
Well, I moved to the blogging world. I’m going to give this a whirl. Nothing too fancy. Again, its probably going to be just me reading my own stuff but that’s the fun of it for me. I’m willing to bet that theres at least one other person in this world that’s as interested in the Appalachian Trail as I am. The chances of them stumbling onto this blog are slim but you never know. Plus, I would like to start adding some other topics as well. Whatever I feel like.
By the way, who invented the word “Blogging?” That kind of stuff seems funny to me. I don’t know why but it just does.
Anyways, I want to know a couple of things. I want to know if people think the idea of writing a journal from now until the end of my trip is interesting? Like I have stated before I can find a million journals of the AT hiker while they are on the trail but you very rarely if ever see a complete journal. What led someone to take such a drastic journey? What were their thoughts? I want to chronicle mine. I honestly think that my children will one day find this very interesting much like how I find Civil War diaries very interesting. Maybe it’ll also prove or disprove that I am insane for wanting to do this. Anyways, I want this to be a fun thing.
The second thing I truly want to know is what inspires other people. I know what inspires me..the mountains, being outside, God. What inspires others? If you’re reading this please give me an honest answer. I thinks its quite interesting as to what drives others or what their dreams are. Why haven’t you gone after your dreams? Lemme know.
By the way, who invented the word “Blogging?” That kind of stuff seems funny to me. I don’t know why but it just does.
Anyways, I want to know a couple of things. I want to know if people think the idea of writing a journal from now until the end of my trip is interesting? Like I have stated before I can find a million journals of the AT hiker while they are on the trail but you very rarely if ever see a complete journal. What led someone to take such a drastic journey? What were their thoughts? I want to chronicle mine. I honestly think that my children will one day find this very interesting much like how I find Civil War diaries very interesting. Maybe it’ll also prove or disprove that I am insane for wanting to do this. Anyways, I want this to be a fun thing.
The second thing I truly want to know is what inspires other people. I know what inspires me..the mountains, being outside, God. What inspires others? If you’re reading this please give me an honest answer. I thinks its quite interesting as to what drives others or what their dreams are. Why haven’t you gone after your dreams? Lemme know.
Friday, October 2, 2009
My Tribute to Patricia Walker
Yes, six months from today I will hopefully be on my merry little way on the journey of a lifetime. Why am I writing so much when I still have six months to go? Its cuz all of this is still new to me and my wonderful brain. Do I plan on writing everyday from now until April 1st? Absolutely not but I found one thing that was common amongst the AT journals I read. There wasn’t much written about all of the thoughts and what they went through before they hiked so I thought I would keep a periodic journal for just that. I’m sure my writings will taper down as more time passes and then they might pick up again the closer I get to the first day.
So my friend, coworker, fellow history observer, and just an all around sweet girl, Patricia Walker (she’s married, hi Marty) keeps telling me the same thing whenever I talk about the trail at work (instead of working). She says “boy, I wish I could turn back the time and live out my dreams.” I give her the proverbial you can totally still live your dreams out but logistically speaking it might be a while. She has two wonderful daughters and a husband she has to take care of not to mention a mortgage and a job to maintain. I’m not completely sure what her exact dreams are but I get the idea she didn’t dream of punching numbers in a cubicle and answering my 1000 daily work questions I have for her. I get the idea that maybe she is envious that I can do something like this. Not that she’s envious of me but that I can so easily drop what I am doing and take a hike.
Patricia, heres my pledge, nay, my tribute to you and all others that can’t drop what you’re doing to accomplish your dreams. I am going to be growing the Patricia Dream Wishers memorial hair and beard. Yes, that’s right. I think that January 1, I will attempt to not get a hair cut until after I have conquered Mt Katahdin sometime in September of ‘10. Whats that mean? Well, if I start January 1, I will still be at my job here in Texas. I will have a few months where I will be still working but no haircuts. Will I get a date? Probably not. Will I be on People’s 50 Most Attractive list? Doubtful. Should Patricia feel honored every time she mistakes me for Cousin It from the Addams Family? YOU BET SHE SHOULD. Patricia, every time my hair gets matted and I can’t run a comb successfully through it…I will think of you and all others who’s dreams are on hold. This is my tribute. I have always wanted to grow my hair out and live the dream most lived in 1993 with Nirvana. I want to grow my hair out. I have been in a dispute with my sister since I was 13 years old when I attempted to grow my hair out and I swear I could pony tail it. She denies it. I think the only way to settle the matter is to grow an undisputable trail hairdo. Whattiya think, Peesephus (Patricia), do you feel honored?
On a side note, I am also planning on growing a beard but I think I may wait until I start in April. So, from now until the New Year I will be getting my clean cut hair cuts that society approves of and most of my friends know me by but come January 1, trail me begins. Yes, Abigail, I will pony tail it.
So my friend, coworker, fellow history observer, and just an all around sweet girl, Patricia Walker (she’s married, hi Marty) keeps telling me the same thing whenever I talk about the trail at work (instead of working). She says “boy, I wish I could turn back the time and live out my dreams.” I give her the proverbial you can totally still live your dreams out but logistically speaking it might be a while. She has two wonderful daughters and a husband she has to take care of not to mention a mortgage and a job to maintain. I’m not completely sure what her exact dreams are but I get the idea she didn’t dream of punching numbers in a cubicle and answering my 1000 daily work questions I have for her. I get the idea that maybe she is envious that I can do something like this. Not that she’s envious of me but that I can so easily drop what I am doing and take a hike.
Patricia, heres my pledge, nay, my tribute to you and all others that can’t drop what you’re doing to accomplish your dreams. I am going to be growing the Patricia Dream Wishers memorial hair and beard. Yes, that’s right. I think that January 1, I will attempt to not get a hair cut until after I have conquered Mt Katahdin sometime in September of ‘10. Whats that mean? Well, if I start January 1, I will still be at my job here in Texas. I will have a few months where I will be still working but no haircuts. Will I get a date? Probably not. Will I be on People’s 50 Most Attractive list? Doubtful. Should Patricia feel honored every time she mistakes me for Cousin It from the Addams Family? YOU BET SHE SHOULD. Patricia, every time my hair gets matted and I can’t run a comb successfully through it…I will think of you and all others who’s dreams are on hold. This is my tribute. I have always wanted to grow my hair out and live the dream most lived in 1993 with Nirvana. I want to grow my hair out. I have been in a dispute with my sister since I was 13 years old when I attempted to grow my hair out and I swear I could pony tail it. She denies it. I think the only way to settle the matter is to grow an undisputable trail hairdo. Whattiya think, Peesephus (Patricia), do you feel honored?
On a side note, I am also planning on growing a beard but I think I may wait until I start in April. So, from now until the New Year I will be getting my clean cut hair cuts that society approves of and most of my friends know me by but come January 1, trail me begins. Yes, Abigail, I will pony tail it.
What Have I got Myself Into
Exactly, what have I got myself into?? I would like to thank a 2007 NOBO (northbound GA to ME) thru hiker John Fegyveresi for my mood tonight. After reading his trail journal at http://trailjournals.com/entry.cfm?id=216325 I am a bit intimidated. I understand that its going to be tough and prolly take all that I have not to quit but John, buddy, you have me scared out of my mind to go through Massachusetts. You talked about almost quitting in MA but what if I get that same feeling you had but in GA right when I start??? I am mentally tough but it’s hard to prepare yourself for the AT. With football I could practice and practice and work on my weaknesses but there’s no long distance AT practice. I can’t rely on my teammates to pick me up.
Or can I? True, I won’t be hiking with a team of guys. I won’t be meeting every Wednesday night for practice so we can be better AT-ers and fine tune our hiking. I won’t be able to call up my teammates the night before the big game and go over what it is we need to accomplish the next day. You’re right, it won’t be like a football game at all!! But, I will have teammates just not in the traditional. I know I have the support from God and my family. I have been amazed of the people that are happy for me when they found out what my big AT plans are. Everyone I have talked to has been supportive and that means a lot to me. I know that if I had problems on the trail I could pick up the phone and call any number of my friends and they would be supportive. Those are the teammates that will get me through this. Any encouragement will be awesome. The smallest words can go a long way.
There’s one image that I use to combat Mr. Fegyveresi’s intimidation ploys (I’m kidding by the way, John. I love your journal) and that is of me raising my hands in the hair when I get on top of Mt Katahdin. Instead of thousands of screaming fans cheering me on I will have the wind and hopefully a panoramic 360 view to be my applause. That’s what gets me through the intimidation phase. It’ll be that moment that I’ll realize that I can do anything. I have no idea who, if anyone, will be there to share that moment with me. All I know is that that is the image I think about first thing in the morning. That is what puts that daily smile on my face.
Or can I? True, I won’t be hiking with a team of guys. I won’t be meeting every Wednesday night for practice so we can be better AT-ers and fine tune our hiking. I won’t be able to call up my teammates the night before the big game and go over what it is we need to accomplish the next day. You’re right, it won’t be like a football game at all!! But, I will have teammates just not in the traditional. I know I have the support from God and my family. I have been amazed of the people that are happy for me when they found out what my big AT plans are. Everyone I have talked to has been supportive and that means a lot to me. I know that if I had problems on the trail I could pick up the phone and call any number of my friends and they would be supportive. Those are the teammates that will get me through this. Any encouragement will be awesome. The smallest words can go a long way.
There’s one image that I use to combat Mr. Fegyveresi’s intimidation ploys (I’m kidding by the way, John. I love your journal) and that is of me raising my hands in the hair when I get on top of Mt Katahdin. Instead of thousands of screaming fans cheering me on I will have the wind and hopefully a panoramic 360 view to be my applause. That’s what gets me through the intimidation phase. It’ll be that moment that I’ll realize that I can do anything. I have no idea who, if anyone, will be there to share that moment with me. All I know is that that is the image I think about first thing in the morning. That is what puts that daily smile on my face.
Out For A Walk
Out For a Walk
Many people want to know why I want to hike the Appalachian Trail. You know, that’s a good question. I think that no two AT (Appalachian Trail) hikers have the same reasons. Me? Well, my reason is simple…its my dream. Some people aspire to be the CEO of a major company or to be a musician or doctor..you get the idea but not me.
From now until the day I set foot on Mt Katahdin in Maine (the finishing point) I will periodically be keeping a journal. The journal up until April 1 will hopefully detail all of my preparation. I think the hardest aspect of the trail I will need to condition for is my mental toughness and overcoming the times when I want to give up because they will come. Anyways, even if I am the only one that ever reads this journal or people are actually entertained by it, I want to keep a record of everything from point A to Z on my Appalachian/Life journey.
Every day I sit in my cubicle and punch my daily numbers. Is it a good job? Yeah and it has good benefits to go along with it. I make enough to get by on and have the stuff I need like a car, place to live, and food in my belly. I live paycheck to paycheck. I honestly can not afford much at all. Does that make me sad? Not really. I live a meaningful life and I live for God. Simply stated though, I want more out of my life. I live life to experience things. Material wealth does not hold much water with me. Life is way to short to put your dreams on hold. I’m healthy, I love life, I want to live life now so the cubicle life is not for me.
Life is too short to have the cubicle life. I used to say, when I can get the time I will definitely hike the Appalachian Trail. Everyone has something in their life like that. 99.9% of all people never take the chance follow their heart. The minute they face adversity they go back to whats comfortable. I was like that too. Finally, last week, I said to myself, when am I ever going to have the time or money to hike the Appalachian Trail? The way I was going…never! My sister Abigail made me feel like I wasn’t an idiot for wanting to do this. She was very inspiring to me. She was the one support system I needed to say the heck with everything, I’M DOING IT!
Everyone has an Appalachian Trail in them. No, that doesn’t mean that they want to hike the trail but it does mean that they have a dream. Now is my time to grab life by the horns and do what I want to do. On October 12, 2008, I was baptized and I have never looked back. I have since devoted my life to God and trying the best I can to live my life through him. One of the biggest things I had to learn was that I had to put my whole heart and trust in God, even when things don’t look like they are going to work out. I also learned to put faith in God by following his desires for me. Not following someone else’s desired path for me but God’s path. I believe that someone’s desires might not always make sense to the people around them but one knows when their heart is right. Like I said, this might not make sense to you but I feel it’s the right thing to do.
I believe I’m supposed to walk this trail. It feels right in my heart. It just does. Not only am I to walk this trail but maybe I’m supposed to show others that they can follow their dreams through hard work. I am going to work to save the money. This trip wouldn’t have its meaning if someone wrote me a $5k check and said here you go. There’s no sacrifice in that or sense of accomplishment. No, I hope to work for all the money I need for this trail. I believe that if I can model God’s desires it might inspire someone else to accomplish their dreams. Most importantly, I want to show others that they can accomplish their dreams even when times are tough. Just one person, that’s all it takes to make this trip and dream of mine accomplish its goal.
Even if someone only reads this once, it’s a success to me if they can just think about what it takes to accomplish their dreams. Just invoking a thought like “I am going to follow my dreams” is a ginormous success for me. If I’m the only one that reads this it will still be a great success if it simply reminds me to be an example to those around me and to always show what God has done for me. This is my dream…day 1.
Many people want to know why I want to hike the Appalachian Trail. You know, that’s a good question. I think that no two AT (Appalachian Trail) hikers have the same reasons. Me? Well, my reason is simple…its my dream. Some people aspire to be the CEO of a major company or to be a musician or doctor..you get the idea but not me.
From now until the day I set foot on Mt Katahdin in Maine (the finishing point) I will periodically be keeping a journal. The journal up until April 1 will hopefully detail all of my preparation. I think the hardest aspect of the trail I will need to condition for is my mental toughness and overcoming the times when I want to give up because they will come. Anyways, even if I am the only one that ever reads this journal or people are actually entertained by it, I want to keep a record of everything from point A to Z on my Appalachian/Life journey.
Every day I sit in my cubicle and punch my daily numbers. Is it a good job? Yeah and it has good benefits to go along with it. I make enough to get by on and have the stuff I need like a car, place to live, and food in my belly. I live paycheck to paycheck. I honestly can not afford much at all. Does that make me sad? Not really. I live a meaningful life and I live for God. Simply stated though, I want more out of my life. I live life to experience things. Material wealth does not hold much water with me. Life is way to short to put your dreams on hold. I’m healthy, I love life, I want to live life now so the cubicle life is not for me.
Life is too short to have the cubicle life. I used to say, when I can get the time I will definitely hike the Appalachian Trail. Everyone has something in their life like that. 99.9% of all people never take the chance follow their heart. The minute they face adversity they go back to whats comfortable. I was like that too. Finally, last week, I said to myself, when am I ever going to have the time or money to hike the Appalachian Trail? The way I was going…never! My sister Abigail made me feel like I wasn’t an idiot for wanting to do this. She was very inspiring to me. She was the one support system I needed to say the heck with everything, I’M DOING IT!
Everyone has an Appalachian Trail in them. No, that doesn’t mean that they want to hike the trail but it does mean that they have a dream. Now is my time to grab life by the horns and do what I want to do. On October 12, 2008, I was baptized and I have never looked back. I have since devoted my life to God and trying the best I can to live my life through him. One of the biggest things I had to learn was that I had to put my whole heart and trust in God, even when things don’t look like they are going to work out. I also learned to put faith in God by following his desires for me. Not following someone else’s desired path for me but God’s path. I believe that someone’s desires might not always make sense to the people around them but one knows when their heart is right. Like I said, this might not make sense to you but I feel it’s the right thing to do.
I believe I’m supposed to walk this trail. It feels right in my heart. It just does. Not only am I to walk this trail but maybe I’m supposed to show others that they can follow their dreams through hard work. I am going to work to save the money. This trip wouldn’t have its meaning if someone wrote me a $5k check and said here you go. There’s no sacrifice in that or sense of accomplishment. No, I hope to work for all the money I need for this trail. I believe that if I can model God’s desires it might inspire someone else to accomplish their dreams. Most importantly, I want to show others that they can accomplish their dreams even when times are tough. Just one person, that’s all it takes to make this trip and dream of mine accomplish its goal.
Even if someone only reads this once, it’s a success to me if they can just think about what it takes to accomplish their dreams. Just invoking a thought like “I am going to follow my dreams” is a ginormous success for me. If I’m the only one that reads this it will still be a great success if it simply reminds me to be an example to those around me and to always show what God has done for me. This is my dream…day 1.
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