I am a 46 year old female hiking SOBO this year. I'm flying to Maine on the 9th, summiting Katahdin the 10th and heading south on the 11th. My family members are extrememly worried for my safety. I'm a little worried, but not so much. I like hiking alone, have been doing so for years, but usually had a large dog with me. He is no longer here. I'm looking for another female, near my age and in good physical shape from the get go, to hike with. I'm very independent and seek the same. This is more of a safety issue than a companion issue. I plan to stealth camp and avoid shelters as much as possible. I plan to stay in towns only every other week. I am doing this on a relatively tight budget. I plan to finish by xmas. Once I get past the Whites, I plan to crank out some miles. Drop a line if you are interested and have similar plans, concerns and needs.