Stick you’re doing fine. There’s no shame in learning how to do a few things along the way. Don’t be too hard on yourself. It’s clear your resilience and willingness to adapt will carry you as long as you keep your self-confidence up. If you can accomplish the feat of making Eagle Scout then you’ve got what it takes to successfully hike the AT. Hang in there. I’m hopeful you’re already feeling better about yourself and this journey you’re on.
Good job swapping out your hammock system for the tent and learning how to set up the rain fly with help. Goes to show that the AT calls for flexibility.
You are the nicest person, I swear! Wishing you the very best on your journey. I'll be doing a section hike with a friend, starting this Saturday. We'll be hiking the Smoky mountains. Hope I get a chance to meet you. 😁👍✌️
Hang in there Stick. This won't be the first day that just kind of sucks. You'll have those days. Just remember each step puts you closer to your goal. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Trust me, some one was probably watching you trying to setup your tent and wondering if you needed help. Also, I saw you signed your name above Fortune at the Green Dragon Hostel. Two of my favorites! 🤎🥾🗻🌲🦌🐻🦊😎
@sticktheeagle Goaamer Gear or Six Moons. They are basically the same umbrella. I also bought the one you're using and concur that it sucks in anything over a slight breeze.
IMHO you are making wise decisions to switch out your hammock, boots for trail runners and sending some stuff home. Humble and smart to know the setup you started and trained with wasn't going to get you to Mt. Katadhin. We were at Burningtown Gap this weekend doing Trail Magic. It was great supporting a good number of through hikers attempting this epic hike. I used the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 on my through hike and it was nice. Wish I had used a piece of TYVEK as a ground cloth. Just wash it in a stream or tub and lay it out to dry and it makes it soft. Be safe.
You make even a rainy and windy day on the trail look enjoyable.😊 I am following both you and Laura @peaks4pounds You two are certainly a couple of the most personable and inspiring AT hikers this season. I am so enjoying following you. Keep on hiking on! 🥾⛺️🥾⛺️🥾⛺️🥾
While wearing your rain hood, you may want to clip it to your hat with a paper clip, binder clip or put a small pice of Velcro so it doesn’t fly off. You’re doing great. Hike on 🥾
Sunday, March 03rd: Any tent is a good tent if it suits your purpose; that is one of the primary reasons that we all use different tents. IMHO. You got this! Good luck! Happy Trails! Ross08
The Tiger Wall 1p is a good choice, which you will especially appreciate as the weather gets warmer and for the fact that it is lightweight! Yep, how to stake out a rain fly is a basic thing that you have to learn. And now you've learned it!
I’m glad that you are being cautious and using your internal wisdom! The tent rain Fl is fine! Just got to stake out the guy lines! Glad you found some help!! Very proud of you!!
So glad you had people around you to help with the new tent. Get a cheap shower curtain at the next Walmart or grocery store and put it under the tent as an added r-value but mainly to protect it from directly being on the ground. Keeps the mud off, and wear and tear on the tent from tearing. Good set up, and the shoes are working out too. Well done
Good to see you swap to that tent, that’s a good one, it should serve you well. Sure, it will take a bit to get used to. Hoping the trail runners continue to feel good, I think you’ll be happier in those long term. I think I just missed you at winding stair gap - I stopped by there to get my 1st couple miles in NC on the way back from the AT Gateway (AT kickoff) event at Amicalola. With any luck, our paths may cross farther North.
It sounds like you're doing a great job sorting out your gear. It's so good that you got your trail runners a size larger than your normal size. A clerk in a running store recommended that to me years ago. Before I did that, I had blisters all the time. But since then, I've never had a blister! Also, one thing I can recommend as really nice is a rain cap. It looks just like a baseball cap but is waterproof. You can either wear it under your hood if you need to stay warm or without the hood if it's warm enough. If you wear a normal baseball hat under your hood, eventually it wicks water back and gets your head wet. I got my rain cap at REI. It's just plain black, but I love it so much that I wear it every time that I go walking, running, or hiking even when it's not raining because it works just like a normal cap otherwise.
For every day that is below expectations there is a likely a day coming that is above expectations. And likely one where you will be the one lending the helping hand. Keep heading north.
There are a number of names on the hostel door that I recognize from UA-cam. I love that so many are sharing their hikes this year. It's great that your new hiking shoes are working for you. Now you'll have some happy feet. :) Yes, even though it is cloudy and rainy, it is still a lovely trail.
Great videos- I have a friend who is also doing the AT he seems to be 1 day behind you! Mike Swanson is his name. This is his second time doing the AT. He could not finish last year after he got to Maine within 150 miles of his destination due to weather and conditions. What are you using to do the postproduction on your videos? Really nice production quality. I saw you also play chess and have filmed those in the past so I assume your techy skills stemmed from that. Good luck and be safe!!!
15:15 😂😂😂. Happy trails. I'll be watching and rooting for you throughout your journey.
I love your blog! Thank you for sharing your hike!
Thanks for watching!
You got this.
Remember without rain and fog there isn't beauty in sunshine ❤
Wow! So so true!
Happy trails Stick
Right on!
You always have such a pleasant outlook even when things get difficult. Stay positive, embrace the difficulties and enjoy your journey.
Thank you, I will
You crack me up sometimes! The lessons you learn on this Thru hike will be forever with you and make you a more grateful person in life!
Yes that is one hundred percent true!!
Stick you’re doing fine. There’s no shame in learning how to do a few things along the way. Don’t be too hard on yourself. It’s clear your resilience and willingness to adapt will carry you as long as you keep your self-confidence up. If you can accomplish the feat of making Eagle Scout then you’ve got what it takes to successfully hike the AT. Hang in there. I’m hopeful you’re already feeling better about yourself and this journey you’re on.
I do!! Thank you so much!
👣 THANKS FOR KEEPING IT REAL 👣
👣👣 HOPE THE FEET HEAL 👣👣
Good job swapping out your hammock system for the tent and learning how to set up the rain fly with help. Goes to show that the AT calls for flexibility.
SEMPER GUMBY - always flexible!
Thanks 👍 so true!!
You are the nicest person, I swear! Wishing you the very best on your journey. I'll be doing a section hike with a friend, starting this Saturday. We'll be hiking the Smoky mountains. Hope I get a chance to meet you. 😁👍✌️
Well I’ll be starting at the south end on Saturday if the weather cooperates!!
Hang in there Stick. This won't be the first day that just kind of sucks. You'll have those days. Just remember each step puts you closer to your goal. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Trust me, some one was probably watching you trying to setup your tent and wondering if you needed help. Also, I saw you signed your name above Fortune at the Green Dragon Hostel. Two of my favorites! 🤎🥾🗻🌲🦌🐻🦊😎
I was following Fortune before I left too! Thanks for the encouragement!
Yo, put the umbrella in a sheath. That’s the answer if you ask me. Nice trail today enjoyed the post 🌿🏃♀️🧘🏼🙏
A sheath?? How would that help with the wind?
I loved staying at Whitley Gap shelter. On the way is a ridge where you can watch both the sunrise and sunset.
You're crushing it buddy. The tiger wall is a great tent.
Thank you! Just had to learn the specks!
You need one of the umbrellas that doesn't have the collapsible shaft. They are much stronger. Obviously, strong wind is a no go.
Is there a brand you would recommend?
@sticktheeagle Goaamer Gear or Six Moons. They are basically the same umbrella. I also bought the one you're using and concur that it sucks in anything over a slight breeze.
IMHO you are making wise decisions to switch out your hammock, boots for trail runners and sending some stuff home. Humble and smart to know the setup you started and trained with wasn't going to get you to Mt. Katadhin. We were at Burningtown Gap this weekend doing Trail Magic. It was great supporting a good number of through hikers attempting this epic hike. I used the Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 on my through hike and it was nice. Wish I had used a piece of TYVEK as a ground cloth. Just wash it in a stream or tub and lay it out to dry and it makes it soft. Be safe.
The Tyvek is what I am missing for this tent. I agree. Thank you for doing trail magic out there!
Stick, you are doing GREAT. I enjoy following your journey. Thank you for sharing. I'm praying for you. 😊
Thank you so much!
Try wearing 2 pairs of socks. They help with blisters.
I do. Injinji liners and then the socks. These blisters were from the boots that I traded out at MC.
You make even a rainy and windy day on the trail look enjoyable.😊
I am following both you and Laura @peaks4pounds
You two are certainly a couple of the most personable and inspiring AT hikers this season.
I am so enjoying following you. Keep on hiking on!
🥾⛺️🥾⛺️🥾⛺️🥾
I am so thrilled to have you here! Thank you for the kind compliments. Even a bad day on the AT is better than a good day at work, right?
I swear by Darn Tough socks!
I hear good things about them!
While wearing your rain hood, you may want to clip it to your hat with a paper clip, binder clip or put a small pice of Velcro so it doesn’t fly off. You’re doing great. Hike on 🥾
Peaks4pounds has a great attitude...like you
I love following her too!
Your tent pitch looked good, by the way. Your trail friend took care of you. As you mentioned, that’s what friends are for. Good luck and Godspeed.
Right on
Personally I love hiking in the fog. It has its own otherworldly beauty. :-)
It does, except when I’m supposed to see a view. If I’m just in the lower woods, bring it on.
That’s where learning to find the beauty in everything comes into play.
Appreciating the moment as it is, not as we wish it to be. I get way too philosophical on my hour and 10 minute drive home lol but it’s true.
Awesome beautiful outstanding vlogging, hiking and scenery, all the very best, health and happiness.
Thanks!
We love following you! Great work & attitude! I can’t wait to hit the trail end of this month!!
Have fun! You will love it!
Way to go Stick. We’re rooting for you on your Appalachian Trail journey!
Thanks so much!
We love our TW! You’ll love it, too, once you get the hang of it. I’m so glad you got a good tent!
You’re doing well and I’m proud of you. 😊
Yes! Thank you!
Sunday, March 03rd: Any tent is a good tent if it suits your purpose; that is one of the primary reasons that we all use different tents. IMHO. You got this! Good luck! Happy Trails! Ross08
I appreciate you
Keep your chin up and stay positive, the best is yet to come.
Yes I think so too
The Tiger Wall 1p is a good choice, which you will especially appreciate as the weather gets warmer and for the fact that it is lightweight! Yep, how to stake out a rain fly is a basic thing that you have to learn. And now you've learned it!
Sure have! Definitely nice carrying around less weight for sure.
I’m glad that you are being cautious and using your internal wisdom! The tent rain Fl is fine! Just got to stake out the guy lines! Glad you found some help!! Very proud of you!!
Yes! Thank you!
So glad you had people around you to help with the new tent. Get a cheap shower curtain at the next Walmart or grocery store and put it under the tent as an added r-value but mainly to protect it from directly being on the ground. Keeps the mud off, and wear and tear on the tent from tearing. Good set up, and the shoes are working out too. Well done
Thanks for the recommendation!! Now I have a piece of tyvek which should do the trick!
Good to see you swap to that tent, that’s a good one, it should serve you well. Sure, it will take a bit to get used to. Hoping the trail runners continue to feel good, I think you’ll be happier in those long term. I think I just missed you at winding stair gap - I stopped by there to get my 1st couple miles in NC on the way back from the AT Gateway (AT kickoff) event at Amicalola. With any luck, our paths may cross farther North.
Hope so!! That would have been cool to meet you!
Yes, trail runners still feel good!
It sounds like you're doing a great job sorting out your gear. It's so good that you got your trail runners a size larger than your normal size. A clerk in a running store recommended that to me years ago. Before I did that, I had blisters all the time. But since then, I've never had a blister! Also, one thing I can recommend as really nice is a rain cap. It looks just like a baseball cap but is waterproof. You can either wear it under your hood if you need to stay warm or without the hood if it's warm enough. If you wear a normal baseball hat under your hood, eventually it wicks water back and gets your head wet. I got my rain cap at REI. It's just plain black, but I love it so much that I wear it every time that I go walking, running, or hiking even when it's not raining because it works just like a normal cap otherwise.
Yes, the reason I got bigger size for my shoe is because I have seen other vloggers mention it! My feet have felt decent since I made the switch.
Keep on learning and enjoy your adventure. I'm enjoying you vlogs, thanks for sharing your experience. God bless, safe travels 🥾...
Thanks so much!
Omg the fog!! 🌫️ 😮 cool!
It can be cool sometimes
Two words "New Skin" liquid bandage is the best way to heal blisters and keep them from being infected.
I have not heard of that, thanks
For every day that is below expectations there is a likely a day coming that is above expectations. And likely one where you will be the one lending the helping hand. Keep heading north.
Very good point! Thank you
There's a lightweight tyvek that you can use for a footprint. Glad your fellow hikers are helping you out with the tent. You've got this. Stay strong.
Thank you! I’m getting some tyvek soon which will help a lot
Glad you got your rain cover fixed. Hope you stayed dry. Safe travels.
I did! Thank you. CheeseBlock was such a friend!!
I feel like a rain poncho is the best choice….
Tents rule! 2P tents! Hubba Hubba NX! It's a beast in storms, and all gear will fit inside. Been using it for 7 years, two tents. 4lbs.
Yes, a 2 person is probably better than I 1P
Good luck brother
Thanks
Hang in there Bryan. Remember In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct thy paths.
Proverbs 3:6 KJV
There are a number of names on the hostel door that I recognize from UA-cam. I love that so many are sharing their hikes this year. It's great that your new hiking shoes are working for you. Now you'll have some happy feet. :) Yes, even though it is cloudy and rainy, it is still a lovely trail.
That is awesome!
Is that the BadBat blueberry Packo? I got one too! 😂
Something like that! That’s who I got the idea from!
Love @BadBat
Me too. So enjoyed her journey last year.
You have the 100 mile marker coming up soon.
Yup!! Huge milestone
You don't need no razor on the AT! 🙂
Haha thanks
Great videos- I have a friend who is also doing the AT he seems to be 1 day behind you! Mike Swanson is his name. This is his second time doing the AT. He could not finish last year after he got to Maine within 150 miles of his destination due to weather and conditions. What are you using to do the postproduction on your videos? Really nice production quality. I saw you also play chess and have filmed those in the past so I assume your techy skills stemmed from that. Good luck and be safe!!!
Thank you! I love chess. I use VlogStar video editor just on my phone. I’m glad they seem like good quality!!
Be flexible! You’re doing great.
Yes! Thank you! Good reassurance
Do those shoes have good arch support? I’ve always had issues with plantar fasciitis and need special insoles.
Everyone’s foot is different. I don’t know a lot about arch support yet but my feet have felt fine in them so far.
Hey stick I had a care package sent there ask Donna if she gave my car package out to people
If you told her to she hopefully did!
Stick. Do you have Venmo or some other cash ap? I am sure some people would help you with your journey.
He has his Venmo information in the video description.
Thank you for wanting to support my journey! Yes, I have venmo in the video description. And I was just able to enable Supers.
Narrow like narrow shoes and feet? Uh oh.
Should be ok