(Written 10/4) Well folks here it is. After much personal debate and battling with myself, I have decided that after I summit tomorrow I will be finished with my hike for the season. The ghiardia is continuing to take it out of me and my budget is dried up. This is a bittersweet decision, but I know its the right one. As long as I get to Harpers Ferry by July 5th next year my hike will still be considered a thru-hike. I'm not upset at all though, I started this hike with the intentions of summiting Katahdin, and in less than 12 hours I will conquer that goal. We are inside the boundaries of Baxter State Park! We exited the hundred mile wilderness today, and were met face to face with that great mountain. It could not have been a better welcoming. We are staying inside the park tonight at a campsite called The Briches, it consists of2 small lean-tos and is reserved only for long distance hikers. Tonight we are gathered around the fire ring for our final fire of this amazing trip. I spoke with my dad today and explained to him my plans after Katahdin. He told me he was proud of me. It meant a lot to me, I'm glad that after all my bullshit, bad decisions, mistakes with the Navy,and genuine lack of motivation, I am still able to make my parents proud, I'd almost lost hope. Thank you Mom and Dad for every inch of help you have given me. Morale could not be higher. For some It may be hard to believe, but this trip, though not at all conventional, has done a ton for me personally, both mentally and physically. Mostly mentally. Life can pass you by so quickly if you let it, but you also have to take your time to get where you want to go, its a balancing act that I think I'm starting to get. I'm very excited to see what it does for me back in the real world. Tomorrow we will wake at 6 and prepare for our final climb up this beast of a mountain and after a 5.4 mile climb we will reach our ultimate goal, Baxter Peak, Mt Katahdin. Then just as quickly as we began it will all be over,after a brief stint in town for beers,celebrations, and goodbyes I will board a trail bound for Georgia or Illinois. Back to the real world, to the daily grind but like so many others after me and before I think I'll be lost, if only for a brief time and without white blazes to guide my day who knows what life holds. I guess now its time for me to blaze my own trail.

-Fresh and Bella the Mountain Dog
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(Written 10/4) Well folks here it is. After much personal debate and battling with myself, I have decided that after I summit tomorrow I will be finished with my hike for the season. The ghiardia is continuing to take it out of me and my budget is dried up. This is a bittersweet decision, but I know its the right one. As long as I get to Harpers Ferry by July 5th next year my hike will still be considered a thru-hike. I'm not upset at all though, I started this hike with the intentions of summiting Katahdin, and in less than 12 hours I will conquer that goal. We are inside the boundaries of Baxter State Park! We exited the hundred mile wilderness today, and were met face to face with that great mountain. It could not have been a better welcoming. We are staying inside the park tonight at a campsite called The Briches, it consists of2 small lean-tos and is reserved only for long distance hikers. Tonight we are gathered around the fire ring for our final fire of this amazing trip. I spoke with my dad today and explained to him my plans after Katahdin. He told me he was proud of me. It meant a lot to me, I'm glad that after all my bullshit, bad decisions, mistakes with the Navy,and genuine lack of motivation, I am still able to make my parents proud, I'd almost lost hope. Thank you Mom and Dad for every inch of help you have given me. Morale could not be higher. For some It may be hard to believe, but this trip, though not at all conventional, has done a ton for me personally, both mentally and physically. Mostly mentally. Life can pass you by so quickly if you let it, but you also have to take your time to get where you want to go, its a balancing act that I think I'm starting to get. I'm very excited to see what it does for me back in the real world. Tomorrow we will wake at 6 and prepare for our final climb up this beast of a mountain and after a 5.4 mile climb we will reach our ultimate goal, Baxter Peak, Mt Katahdin. Then just as quickly as we began it will all be over,after a brief stint in town for beers,celebrations, and goodbyes I will board a trail bound for Georgia or Illinois. Back to the real world, to the daily grind but like so many others after me and before I think I'll be lost, if only for a brief time and without white blazes to guide my day who knows what life holds. I guess now its time for me to blaze my own trail.

-Fresh and Bella the Mountain Dog
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(Written 10/3) At this point I'm certain that the first 50 miles of the hundred mile wilderness was blazed by Helen Keller. The trail was awful, nothing but mud and roots, half the time the trail was basically a creek. At the Fourth Mountain Bog a sign read "please stay on the bog logs". This ended up being impossible due to the fact that more than half of them were broken or under a foot of water. What the first half lacked the second has made up ten fold. Stream fords are a daily occurrence,and with all the rain we've had some were pretty treacherous. The trail has leveled out all but for a few small bumps here and there. Now onto the bad news. I spent Thursday in the hospital. I went to bed with a stomach ache Wednesday night, to awake with cramps and some horrendous diahreah (sp) at a logging road 5 miles from the shelter I called it quits and was lucky to get picked up by a Maine guide who was going down the road. It was 25 miles to the hospital. The hospital was tiny compared to what I'm used to. 14 beds in the place. The staff there took excellent care of me big thanks to Andy, Michelle,and especially Brenda and her husband. They believe I have Ghiardia and so do I. The time I spent there was miserable, lots of fluids and little rest. Depression also set in because I thought I was done for. Dutch had gone on ahead and I wasn't sure if I'd be able to get back out, much less catch him. The next morning my nurse Brenda's husband drove me back out to the trail a little ahead of where I originally was picked up. Luckily due to some seriously crap weather I caught Dutch 4 miles in at the next shelter. For anyone not paying attention, yes I am hiking with ghiardia, I'm not quiting this close to Katahdin. It sucks but I love it. We've been putting in big miles and everyday we have been rewarded with amazing views of that great mountain. Today we hiked 17 miles, well hiked 15 and boated 2! We found an abandoned boat and were able to get her floating. So we sailed the slack waters of the Rainbow Stream. It was amazing! No one hiking this year has done that aqua blaze,without a doubt we are the only ones. Tonight is our last night in the hundred mile wilderness. Tomorrow we will enter Baxter State Park and Tuesday morning we will make our summit. I can't believe it, 3 months to the day that I started I will be finishing the 1st half of this amazing journey. I have soo much more to type but I need to send this before my phone dies.

-Fresh and Bella + Dutch
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Monson, Maine was the last town before Katahdin. We spent nearly 3 days in town, resting up,shaking down packs,and re-supplying in preparation for the hundred mile wilderness. As I type I sit less than 100 miles from the summit of Katahdin. We are 10.4 miles into the 100 mile. We got out of town around 2, and pulled into camp around 7 it was a rough 10 miles. The trail was made up of mostly slate slabs or tree roots and mud, both of which are deadly slick in this crap weather. We also had 3 streams to ford today, one of which we did at night. Turns out Bella is an awesome swimmer once she's in the water.( It took some coaxing). The last of the 3 was the most difficult, it was swift moving, about knee deep, and it was dark. Luckily there was a nice guide rope strung between 2 trees to show the best route. After the final ford it was a steep .7 up to Little Wilson lean-to. Full house in here tonight, I hate it. No room. My pack is pushing 55 lbs with all my extra food, plus Bella's extra supply, it makes the miles that much more difficult. Its hard to believe we're so close, yet so far away. The North Country is so beautiful, I wish you were all here to experience it with me. That's all for tonight.

If anyone has any specific questions about the trip, please email me and I'll do my best to answer them in posts.

-Fresh and Bella the aquatic mountain dog
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After the 15 out of Stratton we awoke to rain. No fun. Despite the weather we pushed 17 miles to the Pierce Pond Lean-to. The hike was not fun, but we kept our spirits high none the less. The lean to at Pierce Pond sits right on the banks of one of Maine's most pristine bodies of water. Stocked with land locked salmon and home to some huge trout. A traditional Maine sportsman's camp also sits on the banks of the pond,and from the lean-to it was a .4 mile hike to the camp in the morning for its famous hiker breakfast! 12 pancakes, sausage,eggs,coffee, and juice! It was amazing! I had no problem cleaning my plate. The camp was similar to the hut system in the Whites, but far more rustic and laid back. Tim,the owner, has been operating solo for the past 20 years. Breakfast was just the start of an amazing day. 3 miles past the lean-to on the AT is the Kennebeck river, home to the only ferry crossing on the trail. Dave, the ferry man, is out from August thru October, 4 hours a day ferrying hikers across the Kennebec 2 at a time in his Canoe. It was pretty cool. The trail leading to the river, skirted the banks of Pierce stream with several log bridges and waterfalls. The last of the log bridges was really sketchy, and just as Bella reached the far bank she slipped and fell off the bridge 6 feet to the creek below. She was soaked, but for her first trail folley, and experience with deep water, she came through with flying colors, soaked to the bone, but still bright eyed and bushy tailed. Once across the Kennebec we were in the town of Caratunk,Maine, population 45! We stayed in Caratunk at Northern Outdoor Resort. A rafting camp home to a brewery and 30 person hot tub attached to the lodge/bar. The place was packed with tourists and I hadn't seen so many good looking women in a LONG time. We soaked it up with some PBRs and a nice campfire. Instead of cabins, they had cabin tents for really cheap, so that was the route we took. Overall it was a fun off trail experience. As I write this, we are in Monson, Maine the last town before Katahdin. I'm 114.5 miles from the northern terminus! After my final resupply tomorrow, we start into the 100 mile wilderness! It seems like just yesterday I was getting off the train in Harpers Ferry, now I'm only a week away from finishing the 1st half of my quest. Katahdin isn't the end for me but I imagine it will still be an emotional time. This trip is far from over, and still I have more stories than I can type, 800 pictures, and memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. The trail provides.

-Fresh and Bella the Mountain Dog
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(Written 9/23) We spent last night in Stratton,Maine in a cheap hotel room,eating town food, taking showers,watching tv, and enjoying a few cold ones. Your typical town stay. We pushed 15 big miles out of Stratton today, first double digit miles since The Franconia Ridge in the Whites, way back in New Hampshire. It felt really good. We traversed the entire Bigelowe Range today, The Horn,West Peak, Avery Peak, and the ridge walk of Little Bigelowe, the last major mountains before we reach Katahdin. After several attempts, today I got to feed 2 Grey Jays right out of my hand! They are the Canadian cousin to our blue jays, but they are a muted grey and white color. They would fly in, grab a small morsel of food from my hand, fly to a tree to hide it, then return for another piece til the food was gone. It was quite an interesting experience,and I was able to get a picture of the whole thing. We are 174 miles from Katahdin! I got a message from Birch today, his family will be driving up to pick him up on the 9th and they offered me a ride back to Harpers Ferry all the way from Katahdin ! This will save someone a ton of money because honestly I am unsure if I could afford a train ticket back at this point and still be able to flip. So it seems I will be summiting on or around the 9th and then making my flip a day or 2 later. Talk about trail magic! He should catch up to Dutch and I within the next 2 to 3 days. Tomorrow we plan to do big miles now that we are out of serious mountains. 17 miles will put us at Pierce Pond Lean to,which is near a Maine camp famous among hikers for its 12 pancake lumberjack breakfast for 8 bucks, I don't think I have the cash to spare but we shall see. Either way that's where we'll be tomorrow. I'm already in my bag and I'm having trouble keeping my eyes open. I'm beat from today, we got here to the Little Bigelowe lean to,started a fire for cooking (I've been doing a lot of fire cooking lately to save my fuel),cooked a nice cous cous meal,took a leak, and now I'm going to sleep.

-Fresh and Bella the Mountain Dog
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(Written 9/21) I saw a bull moose today!! It was awesome. I've been past due for a sighting and after counting 47 piles of moose scat today, my time finally came. It was a few yards off trail by the time I saw him but he was huge, couldn't get my camera out in time, but I'm sure that wasn't my last encounter. nothing truly interesting today,other than a ford of the Oberon creek. More gorgeous mountains, and one descent climb, with no view. Tomorrow,we hit Stratton, and depending on the weather we will either begin the Bigelowe Range or duck off in town for the night. We are under 200 miles to Maine, and once thru the Bigelowes the terrain flattens out onto Katahdin. The cold mornings are making it harder and harder to get going in the mornings, got started around noon today, and only put in 8.9. Once the terrain levels out miles should start coming easier. I'm tired and the sleeping bag is calling my name.

-Fresh and Bella the Mountain Dog
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Maine is the hardest and most rewarding state on the trail. Miles are slower,climbs more strenuous, and views that photographs will not give justice. After leaving the High 5 we hiked into Rangeley, Maine to recharge and resupply. Its cold enough now to carry good cheese and butter! Also bought so Butoni tortellini which made for an amazing dinner last night. We caught a late lunch of pizza and beer at the Red Onion Cafe in Rangeley, grabbed a bottle of Wild Turkey for good measure, and proceeded to hitch back out to the trail. We spent last night in a firey haze at the Piazza Rock shelter. A full supply of cut firewood, provided by the caretaker,kept our party of sorts going late into the evening( around 10 lol) This morning ,after oatmeal and hot apple cider, also purchased in town, we hit trail. A few tenths past the shelter was a blue blaze (side trail) to some amazing boulder caves. We spent the better part of 2 hours climbing in and around all the caves and notches. Took some great pictures. The weather today was gorgeous minus the wind. Our hike today took us across the Sadleback Range spending the better part of the day above the tree line and in the alpine zone. The colors of fall have splashed all over the trees here, mostly yellows right now but patches of reds are visible as well. Its only a matter of time before we are immersed in peak color. Tomorrow we start over into Stratton, and the Bigelowe Range, more amazing above treeline mountains. We're about 4 days from Monson, where I will be gearing up for the 100 mile wilderness, and the final push to Katahdin. Bella is doing wonderful, she sleeps wrapped up in an emergency blanket, right at my head, its a funny sight. We're at Poplar Ridge shelter tonight, hunkering down for the hard frost that is supposed to come thru tonight. First frost of the trip, bring it on! Tonights meal was amazing by the way. Pasta with sausage and cheese in a parma roja sauce mix, also purchased in town, it was a good resupply for sure. The fire is being stoked and I am being beckoned. Stay warm tonight everyone, I'll do my best to.

-Fresh and Bella the Mountain Dog + Dutch
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A zero day was just what Bella needed. She has made a huge improvement, back to her old self. We're getting back on trail tomorrow,hitting high gear and putting down big miles to Katahdin. The High 5 hostel has been amazing! Laura is an absolute angel! I helped her out whenever she has needed, and she has taken care of me on the side. We had moose tacos for dinner tonight. First time eating moose and it was really good. Laura is a chef and has a serious chefs kitchen! My brother would be jealous. The meal was top notch, I'm full as a tick. It has been an over all good day. The forecast is looking good for the next week or so, hopefully it will prove true.
OH YEAH ! I had a bacon double cheese burger for lunch from the general store in town. It was the first burger I've had in 3 months. Bomb dot com!

-Fresh and Bella the Mountain Dog
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I am alive. Its been another few days since I've updated, I'll do my best to fill in all that I can. I last updated from Mizpah Hut in the Whites. I'm well past there now lol. Pushed from Mizpah to Lake of the Clouds. The weather was awful. Low 20s on the summits and ridge line which we walked most of the day. The wind gusted to 55+ mph with rain and visibility around 100ft. It was not a fun day for myself or Bella. We held up pretty well at Lakes, which was positioned in the shadow of Mt. Washington, on the banks of 2 small alpine lakes with water temps around 48 degrees. we awoke the next morning to clear skies and sunshine, no better conditions for summiting George. After the croo served breakfast we packed up and made our ascent. The climb was amazing, the summit much less so, almost a let down. We reached the summit to find it covered with day hikers, a snack bar, post office, gift shop and auto road! For being such a huge climb and strenuous ridge walk, What a let down! had to wait in line behind 15 people to get my picture taken with the summit sign, it was the only picture I took from the summit. After George, we blew thru the Northern Ridge of the Presidentials and into Gorham, New Hampshire where I spent almost 3 days recovering in a hotel room with hot showers and beer for all. Out of Gorham start the toughest and most technical 30 miles of the trail. Crossing into Maine, and we have had rain for 3 of 4 days. Bella is sick with a respiratory infection, we hit the vet today and got her some meds she should be fine, all that alpine terrain took its tole, and the past 4 days have been just as bad below the trees. We made it thru the Mahousic Notch, which is the hardest mile of the entire trail, in just an hour and a half. Bella really earned her name coming thru all the caves and boulder scrambles. My shoes and gear have been wet for 3 days, we are at the High 5 hostel in Andover, Maine drying out and recuperating from the hardest hiking of my life. I've been carrying the "round tuit" for this place since I stared, and it was well worth it, the "hostel" is a converted shipping container lol, pictures will be available as soon as I get home. We stayed at Speck Pond shelter last night, sitting on the banks of the highest body of water in Maine, it was really serene. Its under 230 miles to Katahdin, and I still feel great, a little worse for wear, but I'm ok. I took a hard hit in my personal life tonight, almost took all the wind out of my sails but I won't let it, I did it to myself. I miss friends and family more than ever tonight, and all the comments from everyone, really boost my morale. Thanks to everyone for all their support, I'm more than half way done, and I'm ready to start walking towards home. I'm unsure what the future holds when I get there, but I know I'm coming home to friends and family that will see me through. The Blue Ridge plan is still a go for the long term future, I only wanna be in Georgia long enough to catch up with friends and family, then I will leave that place and a certain someone in the dust, not slowing down, not turning around,and no glancing to the rear-view mirror. I'm almost there everyone! God willing we will summit Katahdin by October 1st, and since I only have to get to Bly Gap, I should be home by Thanksgiving if not earlier. Bella sends her regards to everyone. Shower time after 1 last beer. By the way, I've taken over 400 pictures since New York. Live vicariously thru me.

-Fresh and Bella the Mountain Dog + Dutch

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Our intent was to do big miles today and get up Mt. Washington, the weather had other ideas for us. Cold,rainy,windy all factors that make for a slow short day. We were on trail by 10, and the weather was already turning to crap, we pushed 5.7 miles on exposed ridge line slipping and sliding our way to Mizpah Springs Hut. The hut here is nice, dinner was hot and we have a dry warm place to rest our heads before,hopefully summiting Washington. If the weather is still crap tomorrow, it is 7.3 miles from here to Lake of the Clouds hut, which would raise our hut stay to 4 out of the 8 alpine huts here in the Whites. We took a zero day yesterday in Bartlet,NH to recoop and just basically have a day off, spent the day in Leslie and Tiffany's(trail angles) shed watching movies,sleeping, and drinking beer, very productive day... It was much needed. I haven't updated 2 nights in a row in quite some time, it seems weird to have service so far out,I enjoyed not having service for a bit, but its nice to be able to update.

I'm finding a lot about myself I like and parts of me I feel I haven't shown in awhile. The trail really does wonders for the heart, soul, and mind. It feels really good to be out here living a dream I've dreamed for a long long time, its so much more than anyone could ever prepare for, the things you learn,the places you go,the people you meet, and the things you see, all have had a huge impact on me. Pray that the weather clears tomorrow and hopefully the next time I update I will have completed the southern ridge of the Presidential Range and be moving that much closer to Maine.

-Fresh and Bella the Mountain Dog
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The White Mountains

The state of New Hampshire is the best part of the Appalachian trail. The White Mountains are some of the greatest terrain and most amazing,breath-taking scenery I have ever seen. Its been 4 days since I last updated, so much has happened since then but I'll do my best to recall it all for you. September 2ND we started into the Whites, our first alpine, above treeline climb was Mount Moosilauke 4,802' above sea level. At the southern base of Moosilauke, we ran into Dutch Tape and Cabana Boy, a couple I met back on my first day on trail, they were doing trail magic! sloppy joes, hot dogs, hiker boxes,soda,snacks, much needed before a serious summit. We started our ascent around 4:30, after we said all our goodbyes. The Climb up Moosilauke was a gradual climb for 4 solid miles. we summited Around 7:30 that evening, I was awestruck. It was getting really cold, so we pushed half way down the Northern slope where we stayed at Beaver Brook Shelter. The view from the shelter put sunrise right in your face, it was amazing. That day, we took a nero day in the town of Lincoln, NH. resupply, lunch, and we were off again. 8 short miles to Eliza Brook Shelter. The following day we did The Kinsmans, more killer views, and above treeline, alpine hiking,9 miles and hit the town of Lincoln again. (its accessible from 2 roads) where we stayed at Chet's Place before conquering Franconia Ridge. Chet's place was amazing, and Chet's story was the heaviest, inspiring story I've heard on the trail thus far. In 2002 while preparing for a thru-hike himself, Chet had a white gas camp stove blow up In his face nearly killing him. He spent 8 months in a coma, flat-lined 9 times, organs failed numerous times, and no health insurance to speak of. He had burns over 80% of his body and had all but fried his lungs, with internal burns. He was put in a Wheelchair and told he would never walk again, but that wasn't in Chet's plan. while staying at his house, i watched him walk about many times, and I know he'll get chance to get out here eventually. He feeds off thru-hiker energy, and we feed off his, its an amazing exchange.
While in Lincoln, I used the last of my subway card, it made a good run for me. We left Chet's on the 4Th, to begin our ascent of Franconia Ridge. it was a 7 mile climb to get above treeline, we summited Little Haystack in about 3 hours. Franconia Ridge, includes, Mt. Liberty, Little Haystack, Mt. Lincoln, Mt, Lafayette, and Mt. Garfield, all of which are over 4,000ft some above 5000 ft. We conquered the whole ridge that day, 14 huge miles in the Whites. We pushed to Gale Head hut and caught a work for stay. The AMC sent a crew to Europe in the early 1900s to study the Swiss Alpine hut system and bring it back to the States. The AMC maintains 8 alpine huts in the white Mountains, they are basically back country lodges with a dining/great room, kitchen, bunk rooms, bathroom, and the crew or "croo" quarters. A stay in one of the huts runs about 80 bucks a person per night, which includes 2 meals, but thru-hikers have the option of doing a work for stay, and in return get all left-overs and to sleep in the great room.The food at the huts rocks, its nice to have a home cooked dinner and breakfast, that isn't cooked over a coke can stove on a rock, but in an actual kitchen. Oh the pancakes! the croos have to pack in all the supplies they need for the season on pack boards, these guys are no joke! I could tell you a ton about the huts, but I'll let you do your own research. From Gale Head Hut, we pushed over The Twin Mountains, Mt Guyot, and the Zeacliffs, to do another work for stay at the Zealand Falls Hut. The croo at Zealand Falls treated us great!Easy work and plenty of great food. The Crews that run the huts are made up of 4 people all around my age (20 somethings) these guys have it made, I will be applying for a croo position next season without a doubt, getting paid to hike and live in the back country, SIGN ME UP!
We hiked 9 miles out of Zealand Falls, finishing at Crawford Notch. We are laying low at a trail angel's house to avoid crap weather. once we start our hike out of here we will be basically be starting our climb up Mount Washington! more mountain updates to come.

I've taken over 200 pictures just in the Whites alone. This is the part of the trail I've dreamed of. Huge mountains, views as far as you can see, alpine and boreal forests, and some amazing waterfalls. The Temps are definitely a factor here now, Summit temps in the 30s, winds 35-55 mph, and wind chills in the teens. I've got all my cold weather gear now, most of it brand spanking new! New gloves, hat, 2 long sleeve shirts, and a killer polartec Fleece. Bella keeps her jacket on most days now, she is totally owning the Whites. Bella The Mountain Dog is her trail name. she sets the pace for us, and finds the easiest routes, she's finally learned to move off trail to poop! She looks like one solid muscle, this is her test for Katahdin, so far shes passed with flying colors.

Dutch and I have continued hiking together, I think its been about 3 weeks or so. He is a really cool guy, we both hike at about the same pace, and seem to be on the same page as far as daily miles go. He finished paramedic school before starting the trail, which is what I'm doing when I finish the trail. I think he might ride the train home with me (I'll get off at Harpers Ferry) and there's talk he might watch Bella for me while I go thru the Smokies. The rest of the Merrell Crew is 3 days behind us, Birch is having to get off again, because of a death in the family, I'm sure he'll catch us by Maine though, keep his family in your prayers.
Under 350 miles til I'm heading South. All my NOBO friends will be heading home, and my journey will continue, this has been such an amazing experience so far, there's still so much more to come, thanks to everyone for their support,comments,mail drops, and everything else...

I know I had a lot more to say and type about the last few days, but so much has happened I just cant recall it all now. I love New Hampshire and I love the White Mountains.

Live Vicariously Through me.

-Fresh and Bella The Mountain Dog + Dutch

21 miles in great weather to the fire tower and cabin on top of Smart Mountain. Great 360 views from the fire tower and my first true sunset,tomorrow should prove for an amazing sunrise ... I fell asleep typing and my phone died. Sunrise wasn't as awe inspiring as sunset, but it was still awesome none the less. Out of camp by 8:15 this morning and pushed 15 miles to Oar Hill shelter. We had planned to do 21 to the base of Mnt Moosalocki, but it was in the 90s in New Hampshire today, so we took a long lunch and a swim at this really cool lake. Tomorrow we hit above tree line conditions and the fun really begins. I'm pretty certain I won't have service thru the Whites but I will update every chance I get. Hoping to stay in a few of the AMC huts in the whites, they are said to be amazing, and they all offer work for stay as do most of the shelters thru the Whites. I hear of all you can eat lasagna at one of the huts, fingers crossed. I'm out of snacks for the whites but I have plenty of breakfasts,lunches, and dinners, so hopefully I can make it last thru Gorham,NH.. Lots of movement in the forests around the shelter tonight, its hiker tv. Early to bed early to rise, tomorrow we conquer Moosalocki!

-fresh and Bella
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It seems crazy to already be in New Hampshire. Crossed the state border into Hanover,NH where after a brief stay I pushed out of town solo for a night of re grouping with myself. The Whites are just around the corner and I feel like I am ready for them. I have been praying for good weather and its been nice, hopefully it holds up thru Mt Washington. The shelter I'm in tonight has a clear roof, and its a clear night, the stars are really awesome! I got a great mail drop today! Thank you Smiley and everyone at BRRS! I have more than enough food for the Whites. Also got my cold weather gear from home and my solar charger cord, hopefully I can get a full charge tomorrow, we'll see... I hope Birch catches back up tomorrow or Wednesday, he's a great person and I like his pace. Bella is doing great, holding her own like a true thru-hiker. I'm a little worried about how she'll do thru the Whites, but only time will tell. Dinner tonight was organic chicken,apple,and maple syrup sausages from the local co-op in Hanover, they were great over an open fire,ate all but 1 which Bella loved. Tomorrow is a new day, who knows what it holds.

-Fresh and Bella
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Northern Vermont has been like a roller coaster. The terrain is good though, other than all the vermud everywhere. We cowboy camped again last night in an open field near Pomfret,Vt. It was a clear night and the stars were intense! We hiked about 12 today into another small Vermont town, I think West Harpford. We're camping in Steve and Nancy's backyard tonight,they have a really great setup. Steve is in the sign bussiness and appears to do really well. They have a great garden, fire pit, spring fed brook with island and bathing hole, and steve even has a pitching area with 2 sand bunkers and a putting green. They stay here for spring and summer,spending the winter on their sailboat somewhere in southern Florida. I picked tomatoes,carrots,onion,peppers,beans, herbs,and garlic from their garden,dutch bought some pork loin, and using a borrowed cast iron stove and red wine I made a pork and veggie ragu of sorts over the fire. It was bomb.com! Everyone is full and enjoying wonderful stories from steve and an awesome fire. Tomorrow marks 8 weeks I've been out here and I'll be pushing out of Vermont and into Hanover,New Hampshire to prepare for the Whites and Maine. We should meet up with Birtch again tomorrow in Hanover if all goes according to plan. The trail has been great in Vermont, I love it in New England, but I still can't wait to start heading south towards Ga.

-fresh and Bella + the Merrell Crew - 1
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After 51 miles in 2 days we're slowing down. Vermont has been beautiful, absolutely beautiful. 10 miles of taking pictures yesterday. Passed Thundering Falls, and the Mountain Meadow Lodge where Bella got to play with a miniature horse named Alex,and a 200lb pig named Alice it was interesting, I was surprised the horse didn't kick her. Stayed at Story Brook shelter last night and had an amazing meal: parmesean pasta with siracha,tuna,and pepperoni. For dessert a tortilla smeared with nutella and covered with banana chips and reese's pieces, warmed over the fire, it was bomb.com ! Its starting to get colder! I'll be realy glad to have my cold weather gear, I think I'm gonna buy a pair of techwick thermal bottoms. Onward to a look out tower,after this stop for second breakfast and a quick update. 3 days til New Hampshire!

-fresh and Bella + the merrell crew -1

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51 miles in 2 days. Enough said. Stayed in Rutland,Vt last night at a hostel and cafe run by the Twelve Tribes, a religious sect or cult of some sort. What an experience, we tried hard to totally immerse ourselves in their culture, it was interesting, but still a bit odd. We left their hostel and went to their commune for a "gathering" in a circle songs were sang,words said,praise given, and then an awesome meal. Still a real odd vibe,none-the-less everything we were hoping for. Anyways..
My mail drop in Manchester Center,vt was amazing! I'm carrying wayy too much food, my pack is at about 40lbs lol. Thank you so much Dave, for the best mail drop so far. Weather is ok today, rainy at times windy and cloudy at others. Lazy day in the Tucker Johnson shelter today, 15 tomorrow and only about 4 days til the Merrell Crew is out of Vermont and into New Hampshire. 4 weeks and I should be done with Katahdin and making my flip. The adventure has been amazing so far, I can't wait to start heading south and see some old friends for some sections towards home.

-fresh and bella + the Merrell Crew-1. (Birtch Is off trail at a wedding.)
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Vermont is beautiful! I've been hikinging with a group of 5 for the past 5 days. Myself,the wandering jew,birch,wiskey slim,and dutch. We all wear merrells,so the merrell crew, is the name we've been dubbed. We pushed out of Bennington, Vt on the 18th after a stay at the Vortex and a normal town visit. The town had public bikes to get around on so a few of us took several rides, really laid back town. Tons of cool shops. Once out of town we Cowboy camped up on porcupine lookout. Sunrise was amazing. Its really getting a lot cooler at night. I'm eating a lot more, and its time for more clothing. Last night we stayed at Story Spring shelter. It was an 18 mile day into the shelter, passing by an amazing fire tower with 360 views. We're in moose country now, tracks and scat everywhere. Myself, birch, and wiskey sat by a beaver pond for around 3 hours after dusk to try and see one but to no avail. Its been a cold rainy day and 12 miles was all I've been able to do. I'm at the Straton Pond pay shelter and I've been in my sleeping bag since 2. Tomorrow its into manchester center to hopefully pick up a mail drop and hit a grocery store if I can scout some cash. I've got 2 dinners, 2 breakfasts and no snacks left. Time to reconsider calorie intake. More snacks less larger meals. We might take a shot at a Vermonster tomorrow at ben and jerry's, and I could use some stuff from EMS, hope there's a subway. Cell cignal is growing harder and harder to come by and I still don't have the adapter for my solar charger! The climbs of the Green mountains are here and the Whites are waiting behind themm big mountains are coming and I'm ready for them.

-fresh and bella

Ps. I can't see anyones comments, I can only see I have them. If you want to reach me please email or text. 7706331767 primobiker424@yahoo.com
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After an amazing peach-blueberry pancake breakfast at upper goose pond cabin, pushed out 20 miles to the birdcage hostel, and I haven't left. This is one of the secret hostels on the trail and it is amazing! Rob, the owner does your laundry, opens his house to you, and gives you a place to sleep, all while wanting nothing in return. After a zero day yesterday, I pushed a 23 mile slack pack 23 miles south from williamville mass, up over mt greylock which is the highest peak in mass with a 3500 ft ascent over 6 miles of continual uphill, back to the birdcage for one last night. tomorrow Rob will take me and the crew I'm hiking with, 23 miles north again, this time we will have all our gear and head north. I got my new boots yesterday,and used today's slack to break them in. They are great! I like them a lot better than my first pair. Tomorrow I'll be out of Massachusetts and on into Bennington,Vt for another secret hostel called the Vortex. Very secretive place, really excited to have the chance to stay there. Under 600 miles left to Katadhin and the Whites are about a week away. The miles keep rollin ,the terrain is beginning to get technical, and the weather is beginning to get cooler. Loving life.

-fresh
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I'm at Upper Goose Pond Cabin ! Today has been a great, no an epic day! This morning I was invited by a guy out for a day, to have brunch with him and his family at his brother's house. Turns out the brother is a lawyer in Hong Kong ,and the house is a ultra modern multi-million dollar home, equipped with touch faucets, ultra chic decor,and maids. Brunch was amazing,full spread prepared by the maids, after a shower, which was a waste so early in the day, I thanked them and headed back north. I pushed onto the next road crossing where I met the local mushroom club, they had found 62 species in the morning's hunt. I caught a hitch from one of them into Great Barrington, Mass. The town center was really buzzing with people, bella got us a lot of attention. Hit the subway and a local bar for a beer, I was going to head to a local hostel for the night, but a lady stopped me and asked me to join her and her and her family for dinner. Ofcourse I obliged. They ended up living on lower goose pond, 10 min from the trail and 3 miles from the cabin. Well here I sit! I've got some of my NOBO friends so no more hiking and camping alone! Its good to see some people I haven't seen in a few hundred miles. This cabin is amazing! right on the pond, 2 story, with fireplace,kitchen, front porch, bunkroom with heavily padded racks, and the caretaker cooks pancakes for all the hikers in the morning!!! What an amazing day. Tomorrow is an 19 mile day to the next shelter, or possibly 21 to the rabbit cage hostel. We'll see what the days is like. The rain sat in after I got here and has since stopped, hopefully it won't start up again tomorrow. Its a packed house here and I love it! Great company in a great setting. Out of Mass in 3 more days,onward to Vermont! New boots in 2 days, maybe a brewery tour who knows. Bella is alive and well, hiding under the cabin somewhere. I have a feeling I'm gonna sleep great tonight. Sitting here by the fireplace, there is no other place I would rather be then right here right now. The trail provides.

-fresh
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And just like that I'm out of Connecticut. One more state down, 4 more to go til the flip. Last night I stayed in Lakeville, Ct at a pizza joint. Eddie thank a lot for being such a gracious host and for letting me sleep in your restaurant. I got a pretty early start this morning, and given the amount of beer consumed last night I'm happy with my 16 mile day. I took more pictures today than I have since I got the camera. I crossed the highest peak in Ct, the 2nd highest peak in Mass, and in Sages Ravine passed a series of awesome waterfalls. The views today were the best so far, Bear Mnt,Ct they say, is the view where the idea for the AT came to be. I'm at the Helmlocks shelter tonight, no real company save these 2 day hikers who disappeared about an hour ago, hope the bears didn't get to em. Tomorrow its into Great Barrington for subway then onward to the upper goose lake cabin for the night. The cold is begining to creep up in the mornings and evenings, I hope my gear and myself hold up. The new sleeping bag rocks though. More concerned with clothing but we'll see...Alas another thru hiker has arrived! That's all I've got for tonight.
Live vicariously through me.

-fresh
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The trail provides. Its been an amazing week off trail, but if feels even better to be back out here tonight. The hike here was easy simple up and down, however, the terrain ahead looks challenging. Bella and I had a wonderful time in Hopewell Jct, Ny with Annie and Linda and all the dogs, birds, and the rabbit. I will miss you guys a ton. Thank you for everything you did for Bella and. I. Annie you are a piece of work. Thank you for all the laughs and for sharing your isms with me. Linda you remind me so much of my own mom " I can't stand It!"
You two were gracious hosts. Thank you for the work and for all the new gear. I'm sure I'll see you guys in the future. Tomorrow is only a 12 mile day. I completely lost my trail legs in the 8 days off trail. We'll start back with 18s- 20s around the beginning of next week. Jimmy and Melissa, thank you guys so much for the amazing mail drop! I can't wait to get it! Seriously its gonna be the best mail drop so far! Thanks!
I bought a solar charger while off trail, look for the reviews in the coming week. Bella is back in her element it seems hopefully my legs will follow suit. Turning in, its past hiker midnight. Pray no rain tonight. Goodnight.

-fresh
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The trail provides. Its been an amazing week off trail, but if feels even better to be back out here tonight. The hike here was easy simple up and down, however, the terrain ahead looks challenging. Bella and I had a wonderful time in Hopewell Jct, Ny with Annie and Linda and all the dogs, birds, and the rabbit. I will miss you guys a ton. Thank you for everything you did for Bella and. I. Annie you are a piece of work. Thank you for all the laughs and for sharing your isms with me. Linda you remind me so much of my own mom " I can't stand It!"
You two were gracious hosts. Thank you for the work and for all the new gear. I'm sure I'll see you guys in the future. Tomorrow is only a 12 mile day. I completely lost my trail legs in the 8 days off trail. We'll start back with 18s- 20s around the beginning of next week. Jimmy and Melissa, thank you guys so much for the amazing mail drop! I can't wait to get it! Seriously its gonna be the best mail drop so far! Thanks!
I bought a solar charger while off trail, look for the reviews in the coming week. Bella is back in her element it seems hopefully my legs will follow suit. Turning in, its past hiker midnight. Pray no rain tonight. Goodnight.

-fresh
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What a long strange trip it has been so far.

First off I apologize for not updating lately. I have been being completely lazy. I'm off trail in New York and have been since Wednesday. Here comes the story, get ready. Tuesday night i arrive in Pawling, New York, which has a memorial park that hikers are allowed to camp in. I get to the park a little after 9 and make camp, dinner,reading,bed. Around 2am Bella begins going ape-shit, total ape-shit, I open the fly to the tent to quiet her, and 15 yards away stands a huge black bear, blowing at her and I. commence tightening of the sphincter. I make every bit of noise I can, clicking sticks, hollering, etc. and the bear moves off into the woods, Back to sleep. An hour or so later same thing, except this time the bear is within 10 ft of me and my gear Time to call the rangers. Rangers don't show, instead a female Pawling police officer shows up and tells me her first issue is me camping in the park, I had to show her on the rules where it said I could be there. She says she'll take me somewhere for the night. After a 20 min ride in a cop car, I am dumped at The Pine Grove Motel (shit hole) not knowing where I am in relation to the trail or anything else for that matter. Its around 4:30 am.After every issue in the world with the manager, It takes an hour and a half to finally get into a room. Sleep.Sleep. Sleep. at 11:30 a pounding on the door from the manager to tell me I've missed check out and need to hurry and get out. I've been in this room less than 6 hours. Total shaft by the manager. 67 bucks for a room for 6 damn hours! I got shafted. I digress. After checking out, I realize the cop had brought me 20 miles back down the trail to Poughquag where I had been the day before! To make this long story shorter, I end up getting a hitch from a woman named Linda, who takes me to this legit Italian deli for lunch and ends up resupplying me with all sorts of Italian goodies. We exchange info and she drops me off back at the trail. That evening I receive an email from her asking me If I would be interested in getting off trail for a few days and doing some work for her and her partner. I quickly agree. I have been with Linda and Annie now since Wednesday, doing random handyman jobs (painting, rebuilding a deck, installing a gate), and basically having an entire downstairs apartment to my self.These women are great! They have taken great care of me, and have compensated me nicely for the work I've done. I think I'm going to get back on trail Monday, and yes it will be hard. I've let out some trivial details but you got the gist of it.
The trail provides. That is the best, and truest thing I have heard anyone say out here. The trail truly does provide. Thanks to the kindness of all of my old friends, family, and newly found friends, I have mail drops set up back through Virginia. I've been gone over a month now and life is great.

Big thanks to Linda and Annie, The crew at Eastern Mountain Sports, Vinny, Artie, Sonny,Sasquatch for the Mint Juleps, the 2 cute servers from Tiramisu, and everyone else that has helped me out along the way.

THE TRAIL PROVIDES.

-Fresh

(The Mafia is still alive and well in New York)

Ok this post is for everyone out there who is planning on doing a mail drop for me. All others read below. Here is a prospective list if food that I like out here. Feel free to get as much or as little as you can. It is very appreciated either way. Please don't go over board, use common sense, and please don't over buy, remember I have to carry all this lol.
The best way to send drops is using the postal service's flat rate boxes, the are priority shipped and I can have them forwarded up and down the trail if need be. Shipping from Ga takes about 4-5 days. Thanks again to everyone who has sent a mail drop or is planning on it. I couldn't make it out here without all of you.


Carnation instant breakfast
Bagels or deli rounds or flats
Tortillas
Nutella
Sugary cereal
Gatorade or drink mix singles
Instant coffee singles
Reese's pieces or pretzel m&ms
Summer sausage
Sharp cheese or longhorn cheese
Tuna packets
Chicken packets
Oatmeal packs
Beef jerky
Any just ad water side dishes
Granola bars
Honey buns
Ramen (chicken,beef, oriental)
Pepperoni
Dried bananas
4lb bag dog food
Dog treats
Dried fruit (no plums)



Today we pushed 22 miles to the Telephone pioneers shelter. Stopped along the way in Poughquag,Ny to pick up a package. Thanks for all the food Matt!
I'm the only one here so far, if no one else shows up I think I'll night hike down into Pawling,Ny. They have a free area at the park for hikers to camp. Tomorrow I'll see the Dover Oak Tree. It is the oldest tree the trail passes, over 300 years with a diameter of 20+ ft. I'll also be crossing into Connecticut tomorrow! Only 9.7 miles left of NY! Today marked 4 weeks that I have been out here, almost at the month mark! The weather is slowly beginning to change up here, soon I'm gonna need my sleeping bag and a long sleeve T. Time to pack up and push on I guess.

-fresh

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The last 2 days have been great. New York is a beautiful state, the trail here runs through some amazing countryside. Pushed 19.5 miles yesterday to the Graymoor Monestary. They have a shelter that is open to hikers. It had a shower,electricity,and pizza delivery(which was sub-par). Met some cool locals at a roadside dive, wouldn't let me pay for my beers. Really good group of locals, it was like cheers. Played some cut throat UNO last night with a group of guys at the shelter,it was brutal. Got some great pictures. Today we took it easy,just 13 miles to Clarence Fahnestock state park that has a free area for thru-hikers with showers and flushing toilets. Tomorrow I'll push into Poughquag to catch my mail drop from Matt. Thanks a lot man I can't wait to see what's inside! Bella has started sleeping next to me in the shelters and in the tent, she is becoming quite the trail dog. Got some trail magic today from a guy named Auggie. Thanks for the beers and the conversation. For some reason this park is near a parkway. What happened to my serene wilderness experience? Oh well. I hope the rain holds off. Bella says hi to everyone from Blue Ridge.

-fresh
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To put into words the past week,would not do the adventure of it all justice. I set out on this trip to find myself, no one said It would take the whole journey to find what I'm looking for. I think I have found it, in New Jersey of all places. This post is to my newly found friends/family at the Blue Ridge Rescue Squad. Your kindness and generosity have affected me in a huge way and I will carry that with me for the remainder of my journey. I spent Mon-Weds taking emergency calls and enjoying life with the Blue Ridge Rescue Squad! In total 7 calls in the time I was there, from car wrecks to unconscious guidos in barber shops this past week was one for the booksI will be back in Sussex county more sooner than later, Kyle,Teddy,Dave,Jimmy,and the rest of you guys were the most openly friendly and caring people I've met along the trail. I am excited about the possibility of coming back and making Branchville or the surrounding area home. Kyle and Teddy, thank you both so much for letting in the random hiker.(Go mets lol ) dave thank you for the camera! Jimmy thank you for alowing me to take calls and stay in the squad house and for the ride back to the trail. All of you went so out of your way to help me out and I can't thank you enough. I will be back.... The miles started rolling by again, last night I stayed at Wildcat shelter after a break for water at the hardly flowing Fitzgerald falls, I pushed out 15.6 miles to the Fingerboard shelter. The deer are everywhere! Bella really wanted to play with them but they didn't seem as enthusiastic about the idea, she couldn't understand why they ran away, one day maybe. My next 3 mail drops will be AWESOME! Matt,Syl, and Blue Ridge squad thanks a ton! Also thanks to everyone else who has offered to help out with drops, I will let you guys know something soon. The light is beginning to fade and I still have a sub to eat ( thanks shelley and I think Rob for the hitch) bella is barking at the wind and somewhere in the distance some New York youth are enjoying a summer camp and ruining my tranquility! Oh well... Just hike your own hike!
Live vicariously through me.

-fresh
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Ask anyone what they think about when they think about New Jersey, I bet no one says bears or mountains. Turns out they have more bears per square mile than anywhere else on the trail, and the mountains here are gorgeous.Saw 2 small bears today, both took off up a tree after seeing me, I wanted a picture but I'm sure mama bear was close by so I pushed on with somewhat of a hurried pace. A lot of ridge walking with amazing views. Today was short my mail drop didn't make it so I only pushed 3 miles to Nj 206 to catch a ride into Newton ( on the other side of Branchville) for subway! After 2 subs and a full charge for the phone, I began my walk back to the trail, no real intents on where to stay. After a somewhat disturbing hitch from a guy looking for a good time, I came upon a fire and rescue station. I decided to knock and see how far off I was from the post office and the mountain. Score! The 2 people here are in their late 2O's and both work as volunteers along with the rest of their county fire. They let me pitch my tent in the backyard, got to take a hot shower, watched a few movies,and ate some ice cream. Bella scored some treats and a ball before passing out in the grass. The guy Kyle is going to take me back to the trail tomorrow morning and drop me a little further north so as not to lose pace. Over all a great night. Talked to Syl today, looking forward to the mystery box mail drop! Also matt thanks a ton for helping out with a mail drop, it really says and means a lot. I'll be out of Jersey by Friday and into New York and Connecticut in the next 2 weeks. Its been 21 days, 379 miles in 3 weeks!

-fresh
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After a night hike last night of 10 miles past the sunfish pond, which is the southern most glacial lake in the US. Saw a bear, a linx or bobcat, and atleast 7 deer finally pushing into the MOC at around 11 shared some beers and a couple glasses of wine with some locals out for the weekend. Packed out this morning at around 9 and after a great view from the catfish fire tower of the surrounding area, I pushed on with gorgeous weather...it wouldn't hold. The rain came shortly after lunch at rattle snake spring and at first it came soft, after a couple more miles it started pouring. Walking under high-voltage lines as they pop and crack in the rain does not feel safe. I decided to take a side trail to an old scout camp now owned by the park service. What a mistake this was. .8 down a dirt road the camp unfolded in all its abandoned creepy glory. Cabins and lodges in disarray over grown beaches, everywhere you looked had horror film written all over it. I found my way to the 2 supposed hiker shelters on the lake. One was falling in with a leaky roof, the other,though not much better than the first had to do, atleast it wasn't leaking. I made an early supper and decided to nap the rain away. I woke up around 6 and decided that if I stayed in that camp I would either wake up in the back of a van with no kidneys, in someone's basement, or dead. The rain stopped and the hiking commenced. I flew out of that camp. Caught an amazing sun set coming across rattlesnake mnt. As darkness fell and the moon rose the woods came alive. No bears tonight but plenty of scat. Night hiking is such a rush. Pushed out 7 more tonight and now I'm here at brink Rd shelter. Dragging feet tomorrow to catch a late mail drop in Branchville,NJ on tuesday. Tomorrow marks 21 days that I've been out here! Hope to hit New York by saturday...

-fresh
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Have I really come this far? Today was epic, longest mileage of my journey so far. Tomorrow, upon leaving the church of the mountain hostel I will cross a bridge, leaving Pennsylvania behind and entering into New Jersey, its literally like 150 yards from my tent. I can't believe I've gone through 3 states in under 3 weeks. Today felt great, nothing can stop me now. I'm starting to see clearly the destination before me, but I haven't lost sight of this amazing journey. Money is more than tight but that doesn't matter to me anymore. I don't need town ventures to finish this quest.
I love and yet I yearn for it as well. Distance does a lot of funny things to people, not sure how much of that is good. The spirits of several people keep me company at all times, I don't have to name you. You can't help but feel something spiritual out here, whether you believe or not. It moves through these mountains, a great force to be reckoned with. Being alone out here makes you look deep inward, brings the personal battles right to your face, and forces you to deal with them, any lesser person has dropped off by now, this is beyond a physical journey, its inside you. Its inside me. Live vicariously through me.

-fresh
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Spent almost 2 days here in Palmerton, Pa at the jail house hostel,its a free hostel in the basement of the old burough jail. Nothin fancy, afew racks and a hot shower. This town is great,people have been so generous and interested in my journey. Pushing onto Wind Gap today and New Jersey in the morning. Time for some shoutouts, Jess from O'neal's Pub hope to talk to and see you soon lol glad to be your hiker crush , Tara from the American Legion keep in touch , and a big shoutout to the crew at Subway in Palmerton, 4 times in 24 hours! Tried to see Old Crow Medicine Show last night,but couldn't score a ticket, oh well maybe next time. Hustling today to try and catch up with a few people ahead of me. I'm blogging from subway and I can see the rain on the horizon looks like its gonna be a wet one...great.

-fresh
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Short 10 mile day to Eckville shelter after a long night at windsor furnace...whiskey was involved. Only 60 more miles to Jersey. I want more subway!

-fresh

So apparently my blog updates from my phone are going a bit haywire, i'll try to fix the problem, but in the mean time just read them from bottom to top. After a heavy storm this morning I pushed out of Eagles Nest shelter and I am sitting at the public library in Hamburg, Pa. charging phone , checking email, and hitting up SUBWAY! Subway has become my Embassay everytime I get off trail. Looking forward to an Italian BMT here soon... Today marks 2 weeks that I've been out on the trail and Im putting in great miles, over 200 so far. I'm ready to be out of Pa, the rocks have been horrible, and the shelters here lately have been a little lacking. I'm stil looking for anyone interested in helping me with a mail drop, it would be greatly appreciated. send me an email at primobiker424@yahoo.com if you are interested. Even though i've only been out for 2 weeks the trail is helping me to see that people, both on and off the trail, are inhearantly good. Its also helping me to see people for who they really are, the truth and the lies in their words. I keep in touch with few people out here, some more than others, some I shouldn't speak to, and still others I should speak with more offen. My body has adjusted nicely and I feel I finally have my trail legs that will get me to Maine and then Home to Ga. Im not pushing for a shelter tonight, now that im carrying the tent, I think im gonna take a night to myself. My mind is still burdened with alot of baggage from home. Thats all I have. Live vicariously through me. And Sean, brother if you are reading this. I love you.

-fresh

t. Sent hammock home yesterday along with some other un needed gear, it was time for a shakedown, now I'm carrying an MSR hubba solo tent. Super light, s

ubway, battery charge, and possibly the Yuengling brewery tour if someone will hike on with bella. After Port Clinton its 5 miles to shelter for the nigh

pent 2 hours there for a good lunch/siesta. The cold water felt great on tired muscles. Tomorrow I'm gonna push 10 miles into Port Clinton for the day, s

ne Grove Pa.15 miles today with very little water in between. Came across an amazing spring fed swimming hole, 55 degree water and a killer rope swing, s

Its been a good 2 days. Yesterday's zero was much needed, got a lot done, laundry,resupply at the cheap amish grocer,and afew cold beers at O'neals in Pi

? os, and the hitch! Might zero out tomorrow to see the Yunegling brewery tomorrow,we'll see... Still having a great time...oh yeah CARLOS thanks for such

? Trail magic! Thanks to Jen for shuttling dutch and I around for 2+ hours and for your graciousness. Brett, thank you SOO much for the subway card!!! I b

? ought subway for everyone in the 501 tonight to share the trail magic. Also big thanks to the mystery cooler and to JZ for some great breakfast,cool phot

o eally big glow worm tonight. I'll post again when I can. Yerba mate' is an interesting herbal blend, gave me killer stamina...

-fresh

o saturday morning to catch my package before the post office closes at 11. Got some cool pictures today, saw a huge timber rattler and this guy found a r

o e trail I cleaned them and put them in a marinade,when I got into the shelter tonight I grilled them up over the fire with some instant mashed potatoes,

o il magic in the form of gatorade,water,and snacks from a guy named Webcatcher. Also scored 3 trout from a fisherman! When I stopped for lunch at horsesho

o (Written for yesterday) tonight is the first night without service. Pushed 18.5 into rousch gap shelter. At the first road crossing today scored some tra

? n Peter's Mountain shelter tonight, 17.5 miles to Roush Gap shelter tomorrow. Can't wait to hit the 501 shelter friday, google it!

-fresh

? get into Port Clinton by Saturday to get my mail drop from carlos and brett. Thanks again guys. All good tonight in the shelter,really nice breeze. I'm i

? a 6 pack of tall boys to enjoy in the shelter tonight lol why not? The next few days I will be moving fast over some relatively easy terrain. I have to

? n, rough terrain, and bella seemed to be having a bad one too. Once the sun came out and the vitamin D got flowing everything turned around. I packed in

? Tonight I am thankful for Pat and his wife at the Doyle Hotel, trail angel Mary, and brett the subway guy/ trail angel. Today started off really bad, rai

? e to get a new one...damn it. Tomorrow is a new day and I'm ready for the miles. Tendonitis in my right leg is getting better. Miss you all.

-fresh

? ready for the next 100 miles. Please feel free to send me personal emails, I will respond when I can. My headlamp still hasn't showed up, guess I'll hav

? tonight to recoop. This place is great, one of the few remaining Anhauser-busch hotels in the country. The owners are some of the nicest people I've met

? I was down today. the terrain into Duncannon was awful after all the rain yesterday,everything was slick, 11.5 miles felt like 15. I'm at the Doyle Hotel

Today started off good and is ending miserably. Boiling springs pa for mail drop and pizza. Had planned to take a zero day and stay in a hostel for the night but decided to press on anyways. 2 miles outside of boiling springs Bella gets bit by something and decides she aint walking anywhere. Luckily we were close to a road crossing where we caught a hitch into mechanicsburg Pa to see a vet. Turns out it was a spider bite. After 149$ and 3 hours off trail I got back to the trail 2 miles shy of my ending point for the day. Wasn't on the trail 2 min and the clouds opened up. I'm soaked, my gear is soaked,bella is soaked, and I'm tired n pissed off. Zeroing here tomorrow to dry out. Always stick to your plans! But the Pa countryside has been amazing. Saw a scarlet taniger yesterday and today.haven't seen any amish yet but I know they're out there, I can smell em. more to say but I'll type later.
-fresh

This morning I'm wondering if it is healthy that I continue talking to my ex while I'm out here. We text,call,or send pictures everyday. I love it but part of me feels like its unhealthy. We are supposed to be moving on with our lives but neither one of us can seem to deal without talking to the other, maybe its just me..I think so. My feelings for her haven't changed and I don't want to keep perpetuating something that's just gonna cause pain down the road.... On a higher note slept relatively well last night, there must be a scout camp close cause I swear at 7am I heard revilee over a loud speaker. Boiling springs today. Amish country here I come.

-fresh

The cold crept in and caught me off guard last night. Was up with a fire at 5 and out on trail by 6:30. After a short day today 8.5 miles to toms run shelter for lunch and a nap then a 7 mile yellow blaze from hell... Caught a hitch from a lady who swore she knew where I needed to go. 45 min into the Pa country side she decides she doesn't know where she's going and dumps me by some random tiny airport in Carslile Pa .. Luckily caught a 2nd hitch from an old eagle scout who knew right where I was trying to go,(thanks a lot Brent) Staying at Alex Kennedy shelter tonight. Tomorrow 4 mile push into Boiling Springs Pa for my mail drop and a crazy dinner theatre at this local hostel. Gonna start hitting farm country soon, over 70 miles of it. Easy terrain only conceals what's ahead.

-fresh

The rain came down heavy last night and this morning. Played a game of chess just before the clouds opened. Today was great, the rain cooled everything off nicely and left a great breeze. Pushed out 17.6 miles today and tonight myself and 5 others split the cost of a campsite here at Pine Grove Furnace state park Pa. The reason for such big miles today was for icecream lol. The park has a camp store with a hiker tradition called the half gallon challenge. Even with bella's help I just couldn't do it. Stomac is still hurting. All in all though its been a great day. The miles are flying by in Pa. Tomorrow I'm making a 20 mile push to Boiling Springs,Pa to catch my mail drop Monday morning. Did I mention I got to take a shower!? It was great. Good company again tonight and after some hot dogs and some stories I'm gonna call it a night.

-fresh

Another 15+ mile day. Pushed from deerlick shelter into Caledonia Park Pa. Caught a hitch from a super nice elderly couple .3 off the trail to a little green grocer for a resupply.Nerver grocery shop hungry, bought way too much weight. Caledonia park was great, got in around 1ish. They had a pool! Paid 4 bucks for entry and laid around pool til around 5:30 then made our final 2.6 mile push to Quary gap shelter. Almost had a turkey dinner but after 13 miles bella just couldn't keep with it lol. This is the nicest shelter I have ever stayed in. I will post a picture of it as soon as I figure out how. Just finished up a game of chess with babalu. Rain is supposed to come through tonight so I'm stayin in the shelter. I really want to put in 17 miles tomorrow but idk if bella has it in her we shall see. Busy day lots to type but too tired tonight.

-fresh

Another hot one today,but I feel like my body is adapting quite well. We pushed out 15.6 miles today crossing the Mason Dixon into Pennsylvania. Hit trail around 8:30 and pushed out a quick 10 into Pen Mar state park. Beat the heat there for about 4 hours, charging my phone and enjoying some delivery from Bobby D's pizza lol. After lunch pushed out 5.6 miles crossing state lines and ending tonight at deer lick shelter Pa. Not sure where or what the deer are licking, but I digress. Cabana boy and dutch tape hitched into town today picked me up some instant breakfast. They rock its a younger guy and an older chick, he's 40 something and she's 60 something lol they are bee keepers...Tired tonight,but feeling good. Not sure on miles tomorrow, bella's pooped,I'll see what she's like in the am. Nice breeze tonight, hope it doesn't rain, shelters' full and I'm in the hammock... no tarp. Fingers crossed.

-fresh

Well today has been another great day! Ended up not leaving the shelter after cabana boy and dutch tape showed up with 3 pizzas,salad,rootbeer,and pepsi! What a treat! Can't hike on that kind of meal! Lots of people here tonight,some old some new. Its been a good time. The sun has been down over an hour but I'm still sweating! Hammocking tonight then in the morning its on to PA! My first resupply is gonna be in Boiling Springs,Pa, its another 59 miles from here so I'll get there in around 4 days. Bella seems to be doing better although she remains rather timid around everyone..other than baldy,go figure.. I'm full and feeling great, good company and an all around good time. The bugs seemed to have calmed down today as well either that or they couldn't take the heat either. 105 today. Off to hear some horrible pan flute lol.

-fresh

Well bella seemed better this morning so after filling up on water we put down 8.5 miles to the ensign P Cowall memorial shelter. Gonna catch lunch and a nap here,beat the heat for a while then its on for 5 more miles to devils racecourse. Last night while enjoying some good company, a section hiker showed up with a cooler with what else but COLD BEER! 2 things of trail magic in one day, I feel blessed. Tomorrow if all goes to plan I'll cross into Pennsylvania and start hitting some really rocky terrain. Its mating season for daddy long-legs, they are literally everywhere! Thousands of them, black ones,white ones, red , brown its crazy. Tonight I have a good meal planned, a little backpacker veggie speghetti looking forward to it.. Hope to update later, battery is at half charge now so no telling how long I have or if I'll have service. Time for lunch and a nap.

-fresh

Well today has been great and bad all at once. After my last update we discovered some trail magic in the form of a cooler full of ice cold BEER! Courtesy of Lumbar Jack. It was old bohemian which we definantly do not have down south. Drank 2 of them then decided to catch a hitch into Boonsboro Maryland for some subway! Between the beer and the sub I didn't feel like hiking and the last 5.1 miles into pine knob shelter kicked my ass! Now onto the bad news, Bella has an injury. She has pulled a muscle in her back right leg. Its not too serious but I don't think we'll do heavy miles tomorrow just so she can recover. I'll be in Pennsylvania in just under 25 miles so hopefully by friday. Gonna hit up the ben and jerry's plant and the magic hat brewery. I stink to high hell but I'm feeling great! Only 2149.5 miles til I'm home.

-fresh

Another great day of hiking and still manage to have cell signal. Got on the trail at 10 til 7 this morning and put in 7.2 miles to dahlgren backpacker campsite where I'm gonna beat the heat for afew hours then push 5 more miles to pine knob shelter for the night. The hike this am was great ate a ton of wild blue berries! Met up with some more great people too. Passed a garder snake that was eating a toad such a random sight. Might try to catch a hitch from here into town. There's an ice cream place that has some kind of half gallon challenge,lol bring it on. Learned a new game today lol its called lighter toss its very similar to hacky sack but instead of your feet you use the tops of your hands. That's all I have for now. Will update tonight from pine knob if I have service.

-fresh

Ended up pushing out 12.4 miles today. Tonight I'm in the crampton gap shelter along with a few other northbounders, wounded knee, foodnetwork,tree beard, baldy, and mrs pinky jones. I've officially received the trail name "fresh" since I look so fresh to all these 1000 milers. Its seems its gonna be harder than I thought to escape technology and society lol I've had signal every time I turn my phone on!. The terrain has been beautiful this is all unknown new country to me.. The light is beginning to fade and all over the mountains the birds are singing I'm still a little uneasy but its so peaceful out here I know with time it'll fade. Early start in the morning. I leave you all now. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers.

-fresh and bella

I'm finally on the trail! Rolled into harpers ferry at 11:35 and booked it off the train! Got water at a cool little pub and got on the trail. I've gone about 7 miles on some pretty easy trail and I'm stopped for lunch at the Edward B Garvey shelter. Its really really nice( matt look it up on google). Bella seems to be hanging in there we're going through a lot of water! At the next resupply I'll probably get a bigger camel back. The next few days will be short. Temps here are supposed to hit triple digits by wednesday and the humidity reminds me of home. Seceral people on my mind as I sit here most of you know who you are. Also a big hello to all the people I met on the train following my progress it was nice meeting all of you. Carla thanks so much for looking after bella on the train so I could eat,we both appreciate it. Gonna eat and rest a bit than its 3 miles to camp for the night. Adios!

Its 12:20 and I can't get her off my mind and outta my heart. I can't get on the trail fast enough. Sleep will be difficult tonight.

Its 12:20 and I can't get her off my mind and outta my heart. I can't get on the trail fast enough. Sleep will be difficult tonight.

day 2 redux

Chicago is way too big for me and bella. This 5 hour lay over is taking its toll on both of us. Bella and her backpack have gotten us a fair share of interesting looks and questions. Apparently dogs don't take the train too offen. We took a mini tour of the city before returning to the comforts of the great union station... The sears tower is HUGE! I was able to see it 30 min before our train even got into Chicago. I'm writing to pass the time,our train doesn't leave til 6:40 central time then its one last 16 hour train ride before the journey really begins. Thanks again to all of you following my trip.

-see you down the trail

day 2

Rail travel is definantly the way to see the country. Been on the rails now bout an hour,and believe it or not there are several really cool people on the train,couple of really cute chicks too. I know the mile high club is on a plane what do they call it on a train? Lol joking.

-see you down the trail

Day 1

Thank you all for choosing to follow my blog. Tomorrow morning my train Leaves out of Du Quoins, Illinois bound for Harpers Ferry, West Virginia where I will begin my hike north. I hope to update once a week if possible, maybe more, maybe less. A lot has led up to me leaving out on this trip. I'm using this time to find my purpose, because after high school it seems my life has fallen by the way side and lost its purpose, God knows I've made more than my share of bad decisions. This trip couldn't come at a better time and I see great things on the horizon. One foot in front of the other is all I'm trying to accomplish, anything more and I won't make it. I will miss all of you, some more than others, but that doesn't matter. keep me in your thoughts and prayers. If you are possibly interested in sending anything to me while I'm out there, please contact me via email and I'll do my best to let you know my prospected mail drop points.

-see you down the trail