The Appalachian Trail- T-Minus 14 Days

Hope all is well,

The month of June has brought about a sense of urgency.  I am super excited for both my departure and Hammy's wedding.  I am looking forward to sending Hammy off into monogamy with a bang and seeing some old friends with the opportunity to sit around and socialize.  This comes with a hint of bittersweet though because I know that after the wedding I will be leaving the people I love and be stranded with Ed and Alsobrook.  Ha, we are truly excited though and I was glad to learn that both of them are also working on preparations.  I finally had enough motivation after work to check up on some packing tips and load down the pack.  I weighed out at 31 lbs without water (+2lb).  I took the longer ride home from work but still had enough in me to take a loaded hike around my block.  I know the lack of elevation change and flat concrete is a luxury I will not have on the trail, however I still managed to feel decent enough afterwards. Now we just have to wait and see how that first 10 mile day goes, ha.  Super tired tonight, and have to pull an early morning so I will keep it short tonight.
-A cluttered before picture

-After Picture

-And finally some delectable Stuffed Bell Peppers prepared tonight by The Madre.  Needless to say, I won't be seeing much of these for a while.

Last but not least, I was happy to have received a call from Louis while on his trip to Vancouver and Back.    Our reception was a little bad so our conversation was shortened but everything seems to be going great.  Get back to ya soon.

Bert