Rebuilding our parks

I am currently in Franklin, North Carolina and suddenly at a loss for words for what to put on here. I’ve passed through the 75 miles of Georgia and into North Carolina. Check. I’ve passed the 100 mile mark, which weather or not we are able to complete the entire trail, seems impressive at least to me. I’ve felt those 100 miles. I feel them in my legs and my back, both in good and bad ways. The soreness and the slowly gathering strength.

Some days have been slow going with the pouring buckets of rain. Others have been frustrating when summiting mountains completely covered in fog so there is no vista. The triumph is all the same. We’ve been snowed on and seen the sky turn orange with the threat of tornados. We didn’t see any, but they did touch down in some places.

The hiking has been very difficult in some places, especially the first few days. Yesterday we did a 16 mile day, the most we have done so far. I am finally gaining some confidence that Katahdin will happen for me, a thought that I have not been able to entertain until now due to the enormity of it all. I’m still keeping my goals small and manageable (get out of Georgia, get to the Smokies), but I am able to picture that it’s possible.

Katie and Jen have both made it to GA with their gear. they will be heading out to the trail head tomorrow to start their journy.  I wish them both the best of luck.  I know they will succeed in this adventure.  Tell everyone you know what these two amazing people are going to accomplish.

the first drop point:

april 4th

c/0 Walasi-Yi Center, Neels Gap, GA 28734  (ups only)

April 12th

c/o General Delivery, Franklin, NC 28734

~ Adam

Due to unexpected events, the big hike has been delayed one month. When once we were planned to start hiking on March 1st, we now will start April 1st. Beginning a month later brings advantages, such as better weather during the first few months, which will yield higher daily hiking mileage.

Unfortunately I, Adam Herman, will not be joining the ladies on the hike. I have been offered a great job in Wyoming that will allow me to better serve our cause as the support team for the two wonderful ladies that will be taking on the adventure.  I will be in charge of logistics and updating our readers and friends through this blog and other sources.  I am still totally committed to this project.  I hope we surpass our goals and help make the gifts of nature more accessable to the people of St. Bernards parish.

A pair of bird houses built this weekend.