smsinnh

While I sit here waiting for the Shuttle and a full phone charge, I thought I would give you my 1st impressions of trail life:

It is better to set small goals like only 4 miles to the next water source or 28 miles to the next town. Thinking wow I have hiked 110 miles and realizing that it is only 5 percent of your

entire journey could make your head explode.

A little olive oil will make anyt...hing taste better. And while I'm on food, mashed potatoes mixed with Raman noodles is filling and not half bad.

It is way easier to grow a beard than staying clean shaven.

The longer you stay in the woods, the less you worry about germs.

There has got to be a way to cook breakfast and break camp in under 2 hours.

Hiking in the mountains where even the locals tell me they can't remember prolonged cold this far into March makes you appreciate the simple things like central heating.

You learn more from mistakes than talking to the experts. Though talking to the experts is highly recommended.

We are surrounded by characters and lots of good people.

A cramped tent is a 5 star hotel when it is blowing cold.

Bic lighters are useless in the cold. Hand warmers too.

When hiking, you are only as happy as your feet. As my aunt Kathy warned me, take care of your feet.

A hot bath is totally underrated. So too is Spam.

Social networking is a great way to stay connected.

Gotta go. Have a great day ;0