Oh Dixie. I’m so, so sorry to hear about Hank. He always cracked me up when he made his cameos behind you in your vids. What a great buddy he was to you. ❤️. And please, never worry about taking time for yourself whenever you need to. You ARE allowed to have a life beyond social media, you know. 😉. We all appreciate you more than you know. Take care and ‘we’ll see you next time.’ 👍
Sorry Dixi- I get it. Just lost my dog last year. It’s tough. Dogs give you nothing but love and expect so little in return. That kind of love is hard to find and is a devastating to lose.
All of my heart to you, Dixie. I've lost two in the past 3 years; losing a fur baby is losing a member of your family - it's a sadness that sticks in your core. I started tearing up the moment you said he had to go to the emergency room. I hope that you can find peace and know that a stranger on the internet feels a tiny bit of your loss.
My Hank and I are so sorry for your loss. Thanks for all you do for us newbies. I just finished my first backpacking trip; 73 miles in 7 days in Smoky Mountain National Park. It was 100% powered by your videos and I had 6.5 days of amazing and only 0.5 days of suck. Thank you and love to you.
Dixie I'm nearly your age and just recently lost my 15 year old dog. They're all special but them being there for you during your turbulent and exciting times from your late teens and early 20s and through the years of finding yourself, always being there and loving you, being a consistent and predictable unconditional companion makes the bond so much more special. I completely understand and my heart goes out to you. It's good to cry. It's how we say goodbye. Remember the good times when you do and you'll always carry a part of him with you. 💜 P.S. thank you for the videos. I was just watching your kitten Camino clip. It's nice to think that little guy is starting a happy life of his own. Always nice to see how life goes on and it's worth living while you have it. P.S.S. hope you and your family stay safe
I’m so sorry for your loss! I agree with you- dogs are family, and when you lose a family member, you grieve. May your memories of him be a comfort to you.
Difficulties don't build character, difficulties reveal character. Your sacrifices in sharing your adventures, your appreciation for nature, your respect for wildlife, your love for family, and devotion for your four your precious dogs speaks volume...in short, your character is intact.
I'm so sorry for your loss. My furry ones are my kids too and i totally understand. Sending prayers for strength to help you through your grief. I love your videos since I have numerous health issues and can't hike it's wonderful to get a glimpse of our gorgeous country through your eyes. Plus i find your lack of pretension and down to earth nature to be refreshingly honest and authentic. Thank you Dixie for many enjoyable hours of beautiful scenery to get me through these trying times. I forget all about corona when I'm watching your hikes. They are totally absorbing. Take care!
Laying on the sofa watching your video with two dogs piled on me. I know your love of Hank and am so sorry for you. My wife and I were in Harper’s Ferry two weeks ago when our oldest dog fell ill. We thought she was having a stroke. I spent the night with her laying in the floor, thinking it could be her last (she is 14). We hustled home and she was diagnosed with vestibular disease. She is slowly recovering and we have her a while longer. She’s really getting the treatment now! They are not just pets; they are family. We will follow you wherever you hike. Enjoy and we pray for some normalcy next year.
I still grieve for the death of my first service dog Indy several years ago. I hope to be Sobo on the Florida Trail Jan of 2021 myself! Your Videos have helped inspire me.
Sorry about your loss. I'm sure he will be waiting for you at the end of your travels with a little trail magic and a wagging tail. Stay strong and thank you so much for sharing so much of yourself with us. You're amazing and an inspiration.
So so sorry about Hank - like so many others here, I have lost my four footed hiking companion and it's hard to express that grief. You have done so very gracefully, especially with all of the trail plans being postponed. Hang in there and know that we appreciate you and all you share with us.
I'm so sorry for your loss. I lost my 13 1/2 fur baby almost 2 years ago and I still miss him terribly. I look forward to seeing your future hikes. Take care.
Pictured Rocks Trail is amazing. You can get lots of mosquitoes in May/June, mid-summer black flies, and getting into September very few bugs but can be unstable weather. You will love it no matter.
So sorry for your loss, Dixie. A trail suggestion I have for you is the Superior Hiking trail along the north shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota. Most thru hikers can do it all in three weeks. I have hiked a few sections of it and it is absolutely stunning with breathtaking views of the lake. If you hit it in mid to late September, the fall colors are incredible too. Happy trails and thank you for all of the inspiration!
I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of your dog son. It shows your wonderful humanity by the way you feel about him. Our daughter just turned 20, and her dog she's had for 13yrs is experiencing health issues. As an only child, he has been her sibling, playmate, confidant, and the first boy to steal her heart. He was her first real responsibility in life. They've grown up together. May we all be as blessed as you to have a Hank in our life.
I lost my beloved Zach on June 12th of this year, and it is hard. But, we cry, we laugh and we remember with fondness our times with our four legged family members.
Aw i'm sorry to hear about your pupper. I would highly recommend the pictured rocks trail! It's part of a much longer trail, the North Country trail (NCT) and most of the NCT in the upper peninsula of Michigan is absolutely beautiful!
A word of caution about Michigan. Biting flies and mosquitoes can be bad at times of the year. These flies will harass you for a while to see if they can get away with carrying a piece of you away.
@@DannyB-cs9vx Haha yeah the black flies and mosquitoes are pretty bad end of May-mid July. If you're hiking during the bad season for biting bugs, bug headnets are a lifesaver.
Pets are definitely family! It's a very hard and painful loss, and it's so hard to say goodbye to senior doggies who have been there with us through it all. I'm so sorry for your loss!
Thanks Dixie for all you videos and keeping us posted. Every long term dog owner knows the pain of losing their fur baby and can relate. There is a reason they are called man's / woman’s“ best friend “ . Keep your chin up and my answer to when we lost our fur babies was to find another who needed a good home...it always worked for us. Cheers from Nova Scotia. PS . We have a toy poodle in our household ...and we named her Dixie!
Dogs are much more than mere pets. They are wondrous creatures who love selflessly and return much more love to us than any human could possibly deserve. Their deaths remind us of how precious they are, yet their gifts endure: the memories of my beloved pups, now departed, still draw smiles from me, and every now then I’ll spot a mannerism or movement in another dog that evokes their memories and I have a sense that they are with me still. When your grief passes, I hope he brings you such smiles, too.
I have human kids. I’ve had and have pooches and they are not just pets... I’m so sorry for your loss. It’s been so rough for you, I remember the AT videos...they aren’t pets they’re family...I hope you find peace...and it’s ok to cry...
I'm so sorry for your loss, take all the time you need to greive, our furbabies are part of our families and losing them is heartbreaking. Take care of yourself and sending love from across the pond
I found you threw Hank, because I searched for hiking with dogs... You were so dorky and smart that I had to keep watchin. Me and my dog have experienced some rough times losing loved ones this last year. it's weird how the most beautiful things in life make me cry the hardest.... I have been terribly sick for 3 weeks, think I'm starting to feel better now. These hikin videos were heartwarming for me when I was feeling blue.
Love my dogs more then most humans! 😁 I recently put my 14 yr old Lab down also and miss her very much. Your baby had a awesome momma! Thanks for all your videos.
Pictures rocks is wonderful, hope you get to visit one day (it’s also fun to kayak camp that stretch). Maybe there is another stretch of the North Country Trail you can check out? Porcupine Mountains in Michigan is great, and I have loved trails on Isle Royale National Park both you can easily do something in the 40-50 mile range.
Hey Dixie. Got me in the feels on your companion lost mine right after coming back from Afghanistan took me a few yrs, but I'm blessed with a great rescue Coon Dog (Teddy.) He and I walk the Pine Mountain trail to keep up our trail legs. Good streams. Good tent or hammock sites. Blessings
About 230 contiguous miles are complete, more if you shuttle between segments. I'll bring an extra camera, and a car to be a shuttle at one end. The Taum Sauk section is 36 miles, and very scenic, add on the Bell Mountain loop in the middle for another 12 miles.
Have thoroughly enjoyed following your adventures and advice over the past several years. You inspired my daughter to hike the AT last year and it changed her life. She found herself and her husband. I live along the Florida Trail in the Orlando area and will gladly provide several day of trail magic for you. My heart aches for you with your dogchild too. They really are like a child to us but better sometimes, I can say that as I have children. Lol. Keep doing what you're doing, we live through you and love your gear advice!
THE RAINBOW BRIDGE POEM “Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together….” - Author unknown
Even though Im not a religious man, I found this poem 20 odd years ago to read at our dogs funeral. I couldn't and still to this day get through it all without loosing it. Very powerful poem.
Dixie I feel your pain my dog ate a bee two days before I came home from Iraq(he was highly allergic). After 12 months of not seeing him, he was gone forever. I heart goes out to you. My wife and I are hiking picture rock in September hope to see you there.
Sorry for your loss brother. As one that has spent almost 4 years in that Hellhole, I can more than relate to the feeling of reuniting with my loved ones and then getting horrible news when you land. In MY case, they chose to wait until I got back home before they told me vs telling me while I was in Kuwait waiting on the aircraft. Either way, it’s tough! Semper Fi.
We never forget, it just gets easier to remember. I'm so sorry for your loss, I just want to hug you. I could hear the hurt in your voice. Pets are family, period. Don't apologize for your feelings. Had to say goodbye to one of my furbabies over a year ago and still tear up when I think of her. As far as the trail goes, you know, it always be there waiting for you.
I'm so sorry to here about your pup...Its been almost a year since I had 2 pass within a month of each other. First time in my life the house has no pets...its rough. 😢😣
Sorry for your loss, I to have loss my dogs of 16 and 10 years old recently and miss them dearly. I have a recommendation for a hike but it is for when the pandemic is over. I hiked the West Coast Trail which is on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. I hiked it some 25 years ago and it forever changed me. It is only 55 miles which from watching your videos would be a mere one day hike for you. Never quite and the only easy mile was the only you did. Keep those video hikes coming. Many thanks Paul.
So sorry to hear about your sweet fur baby. I lost my two 7 months apart in 2018. They were 15. We knew it was coming but still it hurt awfully when they left. Some people just don’t understand. Ignore them. Our fur babies are not just dogs. They are our family. They are the best parts of us. Take your time to heal Dixie. Don’t rush to go back to work. Believe me, your fans love and care about you. We understand. Thank you for all that you do for us.
SHT, the Superior Hiking Trail this fall would be a good one. Try to catch the fall colors at their prime on the shores of Lake Superior. Great place for the hammock.
Excellent camping, the great lakes, awesome cycling paths, and amazing micro breweries (there's over 200 micros here and many are really good being on the 45th parallel). I've ridden my tour bike through every path and city/town in the state pretty much. It's prime hammock territory here and the way to go.
Good to see the update. So sorry for the loss of your dog (those are always hard). I hope you get to complete some of your hiking plans this year, and will look forward to your reports. It is always good to see your smiling face. Wishing you all the best. Stay well, stay safe, and be happy.
My condolences to you and your family for your loss. I truly understand that kind of loss. My prayers are with you . There is no replacement for the ones you love but being where you love certainly helps. Bless you for all you do and share with us. Our pets are certainly a part of our hearts that no one can replace. God bless you and yours...Special thanks to Aaron for helping out in a tough time.
Huge hugs. I’m in FL near the Fl Trail hoping to maybe do some trail magic near Kissimmee Prairie State Preserve Park. It would be an honor to meet you!!
So sorry about Hank! I lost my little pup recently. It is heartbreaking. I wanted to second the suggestion of the Foothills Trail! Beautiful waterfalls!
So sorry for your loss. I live near Lexington, Kentucky and have been following your adventures for several years now. If you are in this area again, I wouldn't want to intrude on you travels, but my wife and I would really enjoy getting to meet you. Whether on the trail or any other setting. Looking forward to following your future travels.
🖤 So sorry about your pup, Hank. His name is wonderful and I believe you gave him a wonderful doggo life!! Sending you love from another dog-mom. Safe travels!
I’m a New Zealander and our Prime Minister isn’t opening our boarders for at least another seven months :-( I really hope you will be able to do the Te Araroa hike next year if the pandemic eases and allows tourists back into NZ.
@Spekulatius I don't understand what you mean by getting checked? I think it will be hard getting into NZ because the northern hemisphere will see an increase in cases as we go into autumn and winter if this mimics a true carona virus. Then what ever government at the time will over react and tourists wont be allowed in.
@Spekulatius I believe there is a period where you can have the disease and still test negative meaning you'd need to test negative after 14 days quarantine. Not many visitors would want to spend their first 2 weeks here in quarantine. We also have enough trouble isolating all the returning Kiwis. It's cost something half a billion dollars already. Having said that, if you're making a big budget movie they'll let you in 😝
Spekulatius The NZ government took the coronavirus epidemic seriously. The last community transmission was months ago. As you might now appreciate, a quick check at the airport followed by a roam around the countryside isn’t going to happen.
@@JCo295 are you serious about the government took this serious? Because the season and NZ geographically isolation it was very easy for NZ to control the virus. NZ could of adopted a Swedish model and still achieved less than 30 deaths. Although I still think 2 weeks isolation apon arrival isn't long enough. 3-4 weeks with antibody testing by two methods and PCR quant at week 0, the PCR only 2,3 and depending on the result week 3.
@@mramazingtroy Bollocks. The Swedish model is a disaster when you compare it to their neighboring countries. Herd immunity without a vaccine is a myth. Also - other countries besides New Zealand have crushed the pandemic; South Korea, Germany, Taiwan, etc. The United States' poor leadership and lack of a realistic response has been a complete failure. I applaud Dixie's ambition, but if life returns to any type of 'normal' by this time NEXT year, I'll be pleasantly surprised.
Just watched a CCT video.....the 1200 mile California Coastal Trail runs from Mexico to Oregon.....looks to have some lovely scenery.....possibly something to consider instead of the Florida Trail which is more commonly hiked .....you may want to research it.....
I'm dealing with the looming loss of our family cat Casey even as I write this. She has been a part of my family for 18 years and has seen my children grow up and leave the nest. Like your dog , Casey has been my constant companion. Her passing will leave a huge hole in my heart & life. After she passes, I think I will take your advice and go find a good section of trail through the woods to wander and reminisce. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and strength.
I am so sorry for your loss, Jessica! Thank you for sharing the depth of your feelings for Hank. I know what you mean about how losing him feels like losing a child. We had my boy for more than 15 years. Although it’s already been over a year since we said goodbye, I am still having a very hard time dealing with his death. It’s rare to find others who can relate to such intense feelings about an animal. Knowing that there are others like you, who feel the same way about their pets, makes me feel a little less lonely in my loss. While talking about Hank must’ve been extremely difficult for you, I am glad that you had the courage to share your feelings with us.
“The dog is a gentleman; I hope to go to his heaven not man’s.” - Mark Twain “We are alone, absolutely alone on this chance planet; and amid all the forms of life that surround us, not one, excepting the dog has made an alliance with us.” - Maurice Maeterlinck (author, “Our Friend, the Dog”) and just for fun, “When a man's best friend is his dog, that dog has a problem.” - Edward Abbey
So sorry about your pup. A wise man once said, "I don't know if dogs go to heaven when they die. But, if they don't, when I die I want to go wherever they go". Love you, Dixie. Hang in there, and take as much time as you need. We'll still be here for you. Steve
Kimberly Finch I was born and raised in Michigan. I have lived in northern Indiana for the last 16 years. It’s pretty flat and corn field filled. I miss my home state and go on adventures there any chance I get.
I'm so sorry for your loss Dixie. When my 15 years old cat passed away I thought I could never bare this amount of pain. But I took a kitten and the necessity to take care of this little creature really helped me to get through. He became my new soulmate and I really love him. Although it still huts sometimes when I think about my loss the time heals and it is getting better. You are great at what you're doing and I really love your channel. In my opinion it is one of the most informative and inspirational in the field. I learned a lot from you and I'm efficiently using these skills in my trips. Thank you so much for sharing all these knowledge.
😢❤️❤️❤️ we just lost the best cat in the world. He was an 9 month old rescue when I got him 15 years ago. The only demand he ever made was for cuddles. Virtual hugs as we sob together.
Dixie, I know you have roots in Florida, but I really wish you would reconsider and not do the Florida trail. Mountain lions and grizzly bears are one thing, but the two-legged, transient predators in the woods of Florida are completely different. At the very least, travel in a group and arm yourselves.
Dixie I'm very sorry for your loss. I also treat my fur puppy as family. As others have mentioned the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail in SW Pennsylvania is 70 miles of awesome wilderness. I have been training my lungs and legs for about 2 years now in anticipation of thru hiking this trail. I've section hiked most of it several times since I was a kid. Now at 50 i'm ready. I was researching my backpacking plans and came across your site and videos a few months ago and you inspired me so much. You helped me realize that I don't have to be in perfect shape or able to trek 30 miles a day and I don't have to own all the newest equipment. So, Thank you very much for the help that you unknowingly gave me. You also made me feel less crazy about wanting to thru hike solo (I thought I was the only one). I am starting my NOBO thru hike of the LHHT in mid September 2020 and have the itinerary set and paid. It would be an honor if you would choose to join me.
My condolences on the loss of Hank. Dogs are our family members. We lost Coda 12 years ago and haven't been able to get another dog since. Thanks for the update. Good Luck, Rick
First let me say my heart breaks for you and your pup. I’m old I’ve been through it several times and and never gets easier. I’m new to following you. You’ve been invaluable in helping me understand how to hike and camp for enjoyment. I learned hoe to hike (hump) and camp (bivouac) in the Marines..... I’ve had forget most of what I knew and learn new things. Thank you for being you. God bless and WDE! Michael
I'm just now seeing this video. I am so sorry for the loss of Hank. I, too, can relate when I lost my precious Great Dane. It was such a blow, and I still to this day think about her at times (it was 14 years ago). They are fond memories now, but can still be painful sometimes. Praying for you during this time.
I’m sorry for your loss Dixie. It’s a hard thing to go through. I hope you’re feeling better these days. And thanks for always keeping it real. Sincerely, Jeremy
Oh Dixie. I’m so, so sorry to hear about Hank. He always cracked me up when he made his cameos behind you in your vids. What a great buddy he was to you. ❤️. And please, never worry about taking time for yourself whenever you need to. You ARE allowed to have a life beyond social media, you know. 😉. We all appreciate you more than you know. Take care and ‘we’ll see you next time.’ 👍
Beautiful words, spot on with all of that ❤ Much love to you Dixie and to beautiful Hank in his resting place x
Sorry Dixi- I get it. Just lost my dog last year. It’s tough. Dogs give you nothing but love and expect so little in return. That kind of love is hard to find and is a devastating to lose.
All of my heart to you, Dixie. I've lost two in the past 3 years; losing a fur baby is losing a member of your family - it's a sadness that sticks in your core. I started tearing up the moment you said he had to go to the emergency room. I hope that you can find peace and know that a stranger on the internet feels a tiny bit of your loss.
My Hank and I are so sorry for your loss. Thanks for all you do for us newbies. I just finished my first backpacking trip; 73 miles in 7 days in Smoky Mountain National Park. It was 100% powered by your videos and I had 6.5 days of amazing and only 0.5 days of suck. Thank you and love to you.
Dixie I'm nearly your age and just recently lost my 15 year old dog. They're all special but them being there for you during your turbulent and exciting times from your late teens and early 20s and through the years of finding yourself, always being there and loving you, being a consistent and predictable unconditional companion makes the bond so much more special.
I completely understand and my heart goes out to you.
It's good to cry. It's how we say goodbye. Remember the good times when you do and you'll always carry a part of him with you. 💜
P.S. thank you for the videos. I was just watching your kitten Camino clip. It's nice to think that little guy is starting a happy life of his own. Always nice to see how life goes on and it's worth living while you have it.
P.S.S. hope you and your family stay safe
I’m so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you. My dog is my everything, so to hear of Hank’s passing, breaks my heart for you.
I’m so sorry to hear the sad news of your loss...❤️ The relationship we share with our dogs is something special...✌🏼
Cats too, we are owned by both.
Believe me if you live with a cat...they OWN you.
My dog is my life. My heart breaks for you. Lots of love.
Just completed the timberline trail. MT Hood Oregon. 40 miles. Amazing. Something to consider.
I’m so sorry for your loss! I agree with you- dogs are family, and when you lose a family member, you grieve. May your memories of him be a comfort to you.
Dogs who have humans like you, have filled every year of their lives to the maximum. thats what life is about!
Difficulties don't build character, difficulties reveal character. Your sacrifices in sharing your adventures, your appreciation for nature, your respect for wildlife, your love for family, and devotion for your four your precious dogs speaks volume...in short, your character is intact.
My sincere condolences for your loss Dixie... your pooch led an amazing life because of you, never forget that x
Sending you a BIG hug Dixie
I'm so sorry for your loss. My furry ones are my kids too and i totally understand. Sending prayers for strength to help you through your grief. I love your videos since I have numerous health issues and can't hike it's wonderful to get a glimpse of our gorgeous country through your eyes. Plus i find your lack of pretension and down to earth nature to be refreshingly honest and authentic. Thank you Dixie for many enjoyable hours of beautiful scenery to get me through these trying times. I forget all about corona when I'm watching your hikes. They are totally absorbing. Take care!
Laying on the sofa watching your video with two dogs piled on me. I know your love of Hank and am so sorry for you.
My wife and I were in Harper’s Ferry two weeks ago when our oldest dog fell ill. We thought she was having a stroke. I spent the night with her laying in the floor, thinking it could be her last (she is 14). We hustled home and she was diagnosed with vestibular disease. She is slowly recovering and we have her a while longer. She’s really getting the treatment now! They are not just pets; they are family.
We will follow you wherever you hike. Enjoy and we pray for some normalcy next year.
So sorry to hear about Hank. I’m like you they aren’t pets they are our kids... Hugs to you my friend ❤️❤️
Losing your beloved son-dog, Hank, is HUGE. I know that pain well and my heart goes out to you and all who knew and loved, Hank.
I still grieve for the death of my first service dog Indy several years ago. I hope to be Sobo on the Florida Trail Jan of 2021 myself! Your Videos have helped inspire me.
Sorry about your loss. I'm sure he will be waiting for you at the end of your travels with a little trail magic and a wagging tail. Stay strong and thank you so much for sharing so much of yourself with us. You're amazing and an inspiration.
So so sorry about Hank - like so many others here, I have lost my four footed hiking companion and it's hard to express that grief. You have done so very gracefully, especially with all of the trail plans being postponed. Hang in there and know that we appreciate you and all you share with us.
I'm so sorry for your loss. I lost my 13 1/2 fur baby almost 2 years ago and I still miss him terribly. I look forward to seeing your future hikes. Take care.
Sorry for your loss. Our puppies are our children.
pigs are smarter than dogs but people seem to love eating them.
@@hand__banana >>> What an UPLIFTING comment...🙄
@@hand__banana from a vegan: this is not the moment love. Antagonistic comments are not the way to change minds
@@ladiebug395 Well said.
Pictured Rocks Trail is amazing. You can get lots of mosquitoes in May/June, mid-summer black flies, and getting into September very few bugs but can be unstable weather. You will love it no matter.
I've
done it in oct. BEAUTIFUL!!!
Yep, did the hike in June. Headnet!!🦟🦟🦟
So sorry for your loss, Dixie. A trail suggestion I have for you is the Superior Hiking trail along the north shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota. Most thru hikers can do it all in three weeks. I have hiked a few sections of it and it is absolutely stunning with breathtaking views of the lake. If you hit it in mid to late September, the fall colors are incredible too. Happy trails and thank you for all of the inspiration!
I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of your dog son. It shows your wonderful humanity by the way you feel about him.
Our daughter just turned 20, and her dog she's had for 13yrs is experiencing health issues. As an only child, he has been her sibling, playmate, confidant, and the first boy to steal her heart. He was her first real responsibility in life. They've grown up together.
May we all be as blessed as you to have a Hank in our life.
I lost my beloved Zach on June 12th of this year, and it is hard. But, we cry, we laugh and we remember with fondness our times with our four legged family members.
Definitely understand your heartache. My ‘Wingman’ was my best friend for 14 years. ❤️
Aw i'm sorry to hear about your pupper.
I would highly recommend the pictured rocks trail! It's part of a much longer trail, the North Country trail (NCT) and most of the NCT in the upper peninsula of Michigan is absolutely beautiful!
A word of caution about Michigan. Biting flies and mosquitoes can be bad at times of the year. These flies will harass you for a while to see if they can get away with carrying a piece of you away.
@@DannyB-cs9vx Haha yeah the black flies and mosquitoes are pretty bad end of May-mid July. If you're hiking during the bad season for biting bugs, bug headnets are a lifesaver.
Pets are definitely family! It's a very hard and painful loss, and it's so hard to say goodbye to senior doggies who have been there with us through it all. I'm so sorry for your loss!
Thanks Dixie for all you videos and keeping us posted. Every long term dog owner knows the pain of losing their fur baby and can relate. There is a reason they are called man's / woman’s“ best friend “ . Keep your chin up and my answer to when we lost our fur babies was to find another who needed a good home...it always worked for us. Cheers from Nova Scotia.
PS . We have a toy poodle in our household ...and we named her Dixie!
Love the puppy pictures of Hank. I'm sure he had a good life being your Guardian :>)
Dogs are people too. 😊 sorry to hear the news.
Dixie, I’m so so sorry about Hank. Sending love and light to you.
Dogs are much more than mere pets. They are wondrous creatures who love selflessly and return much more love to us than any human could possibly deserve. Their deaths remind us of how precious they are, yet their gifts endure: the memories of my beloved pups, now departed, still draw smiles from me, and every now then I’ll spot a mannerism or movement in another dog that evokes their memories and I have a sense that they are with me still. When your grief passes, I hope he brings you such smiles, too.
hi dixie the love we feel for animals and the love they return is real. sorry to hear of your loss. better days ahead for all or so i hope.
I have human kids. I’ve had and have pooches and they are not just pets... I’m so sorry for your loss. It’s been so rough for you, I remember the AT videos...they aren’t pets they’re family...I hope you find peace...and it’s ok to cry...
i'm sorry to hear about Hank.
I lost my dog like 3 years ago and still have moments I miss him so much that I tear up. I loved the wildlife clips
I'm so sorry for your loss, take all the time you need to greive, our furbabies are part of our families and losing them is heartbreaking. Take care of yourself and sending love from across the pond
I found you threw Hank, because I searched for hiking with dogs... You were so dorky and smart that I had to keep watchin. Me and my dog have experienced some rough times losing loved ones this last year. it's weird how the most beautiful things in life make me cry the hardest.... I have been terribly sick for 3 weeks, think I'm starting to feel better now. These hikin videos were heartwarming for me when I was feeling blue.
Love my dogs more then most humans! 😁
I recently put my 14 yr old Lab down also and miss her very much. Your baby had a awesome momma! Thanks for all your videos.
Pictures rocks is wonderful, hope you get to visit one day (it’s also fun to kayak camp that stretch). Maybe there is another stretch of the North Country Trail you can check out? Porcupine Mountains in Michigan is great, and I have loved trails on Isle Royale National Park both you can easily do something in the 40-50 mile range.
Good morning Dixie! I’m sorry Dixie. My dog was by far my best friend and I haven’t gotten over it and he passed 3 yrs ago. ❤️ya!
Hey Dixie. Got me in the feels on your companion lost mine right after coming back from Afghanistan took me a few yrs, but I'm blessed with a great rescue Coon Dog (Teddy.) He and I walk the Pine Mountain trail to keep up our trail legs. Good streams. Good tent or hammock sites. Blessings
So sorry for your loss. Pets are our babes for sure. They love us and we love them.
The porcupine State Park in the western UP of Michigan, over 90 miles of hiking trails and they're awesome
Ozark Trail Missouri Would love to see someone film it in the detail you do.
Agreed
About 230 contiguous miles are complete, more if you shuttle between segments. I'll bring an extra camera, and a car to be a shuttle at one end. The Taum Sauk section is 36 miles, and very scenic, add on the Bell Mountain loop in the middle for another 12 miles.
Rest In Peace Hank. 🐾❤️ My heart goes out to you Jessica.
So very sorry for your loss. I know the heartache. May you feel the love and support surrounding you.
Have thoroughly enjoyed following your adventures and advice over the past several years. You inspired my daughter to hike the AT last year and it changed her life. She found herself and her husband.
I live along the Florida Trail in the Orlando area and will gladly provide several day of trail magic for you.
My heart aches for you with your dogchild too. They really are like a child to us but better sometimes, I can say that as I have children. Lol. Keep doing what you're doing, we live through you and love your gear advice!
Dogs aren’t pets, they’re family. Bless you in your loss.
THE RAINBOW BRIDGE POEM
“Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together….”
- Author unknown
Even though Im not a religious man, I found this poem 20 odd years ago to read at our dogs funeral. I couldn't and still to this day get through it all without loosing it. Very powerful poem.
Dixie I feel your pain my dog ate a bee two days before I came home from Iraq(he was highly allergic). After 12 months of not seeing him, he was gone forever. I heart goes out to you. My wife and I are hiking picture rock in September hope to see you there.
Sorry for your loss brother. As one that has spent almost 4 years in that Hellhole, I can more than relate to the feeling of reuniting with my loved ones and then getting horrible news when you land. In MY case, they chose to wait until I got back home before they told me vs telling me while I was in Kuwait waiting on the aircraft. Either way, it’s tough! Semper Fi.
So sorry for your loss, it's horrible any time we lose a dear pet but your circumstances definitely compounded that loss.
We never forget, it just gets easier to remember. I'm so sorry for your loss, I just want to hug you. I could hear the hurt in your voice. Pets are family, period. Don't apologize for your feelings. Had to say goodbye to one of my furbabies over a year ago and still tear up when I think of her. As far as the trail goes, you know, it always be there waiting for you.
Real sorry to hear about Hank. Dogs are such wonderful companions, there is nothing quite like them. All the best from the UK.
I'm so sorry to here about your pup...Its been almost a year since I had 2 pass within a month of each other. First time in my life the house has no pets...its rough. 😢😣
Yikes. That must have been a lonely feeling.
God bless you, he was so fortunate to have a great life with you!
I'm sorry to hear about your dog! I still miss mine. As for trail recommendations, you should look at the Uinta Highline Trail!
Sorry for your loss, I to have loss my dogs of 16 and 10 years old recently and miss them dearly. I have a recommendation for a hike but it is for when the pandemic is over. I hiked the West Coast Trail which is on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. I hiked it some 25 years ago and it forever changed me. It is only 55 miles which from watching your videos would be a mere one day hike for you. Never quite and the only easy mile was the only you did. Keep those video hikes coming. Many thanks Paul.
So sorry to hear about your sweet fur baby. I lost my two 7 months apart in 2018. They were 15. We knew it was coming but still it hurt awfully when they left. Some people just don’t understand. Ignore them. Our fur babies are not just dogs. They are our family. They are the best parts of us. Take your time to heal Dixie. Don’t rush to go back to work. Believe me, your fans love and care about you. We understand. Thank you for all that you do for us.
Animals have such a pure love and my heart hurts for you!!
The pain we feel when we say goodbye is the price we pay for their unconditional love. ATB Dixie 🤗
SHT, the Superior Hiking Trail this fall would be a good one. Try to catch the fall colors at their prime on the shores of Lake Superior. Great place for the hammock.
I’ve been eyeballing that one for awhile now.
Excellent camping, the great lakes, awesome cycling paths, and amazing micro breweries (there's over 200 micros here and many are really good being on the 45th parallel). I've ridden my tour bike through every path and city/town in the state pretty much. It's prime hammock territory here and the way to go.
Good to see the update. So sorry for the loss of your dog (those are always hard). I hope you get to complete some of your hiking plans this year, and will look forward to your reports. It is always good to see your smiling face. Wishing you all the best. Stay well, stay safe, and be happy.
My condolences to you and your family for your loss. I truly understand that kind of loss. My prayers are with you . There is no replacement for the ones you love but being where you love certainly helps. Bless you for all you do and share with us. Our pets are certainly a part of our hearts that no one can replace. God bless you and yours...Special thanks to Aaron for helping out in a tough time.
I lost my 17 year old kitty in January. I feel for you.
Stay strong, I enjoy watching your episodes.
If you get to Central NC, let me know.....
Huge hugs. I’m in FL near the Fl Trail hoping to maybe do some trail magic near Kissimmee Prairie State Preserve Park. It would be an honor to meet you!!
Sorry for your loss. :(
Trail recommendations: The Foothills trail (SC) The Art Loeb (NC) Mountains to sea trail.
So sorry about Hank! I lost my little pup recently. It is heartbreaking. I wanted to second the suggestion of the Foothills Trail! Beautiful waterfalls!
So sorry for your loss. I live near Lexington, Kentucky and have been following your adventures for several years now. If you are in this area again, I wouldn't want to intrude on you travels, but my wife and I would really enjoy getting to meet you. Whether on the trail or any other setting. Looking forward to following your future travels.
🖤 So sorry about your pup, Hank. His name is wonderful and I believe you gave him a wonderful doggo life!! Sending you love from another dog-mom. Safe travels!
I’m a New Zealander and our Prime Minister isn’t opening our boarders for at least another seven months :-( I really hope you will be able to do the Te Araroa hike next year if the pandemic eases and allows tourists back into NZ.
@Spekulatius I don't understand what you mean by getting checked? I think it will be hard getting into NZ because the northern hemisphere will see an increase in cases as we go into autumn and winter if this mimics a true carona virus. Then what ever government at the time will over react and tourists wont be allowed in.
@Spekulatius I believe there is a period where you can have the disease and still test negative meaning you'd need to test negative after 14 days quarantine. Not many visitors would want to spend their first 2 weeks here in quarantine. We also have enough trouble isolating all the returning Kiwis. It's cost something half a billion dollars already.
Having said that, if you're making a big budget movie they'll let you in 😝
Spekulatius The NZ government took the coronavirus epidemic seriously. The last community transmission was months ago.
As you might now appreciate, a quick check at the airport followed by a roam around the countryside isn’t going to happen.
@@JCo295 are you serious about the government took this serious? Because the season and NZ geographically isolation it was very easy for NZ to control the virus. NZ could of adopted a Swedish model and still achieved less than 30 deaths. Although I still think 2 weeks isolation apon arrival isn't long enough. 3-4 weeks with antibody testing by two methods and PCR quant at week 0, the PCR only 2,3 and depending on the result week 3.
@@mramazingtroy Bollocks. The Swedish model is a disaster when you compare it to their neighboring countries. Herd immunity without a vaccine is a myth.
Also - other countries besides New Zealand have crushed the pandemic; South Korea, Germany, Taiwan, etc. The United States' poor leadership and lack of a realistic response has been a complete failure. I applaud Dixie's ambition, but if life returns to any type of 'normal' by this time NEXT year, I'll be pleasantly surprised.
Dixie, The Laurel Highlands Hiking trail in SW Pennsylvania is 70 miles. Not as Rocky as the PA section of the A.T.! Sorry to hear about Hank!
Time to knock out the CT, Dixie.. Colorado is open to all hikes.
Or at least complete the part of the CDT you didn't get to do.
Just watched a CCT video.....the 1200 mile California Coastal Trail runs from Mexico to Oregon.....looks to have some lovely scenery.....possibly something to consider instead of the Florida Trail which is more commonly hiked .....you may want to research it.....
I'm dealing with the looming loss of our family cat Casey even as I write this. She has been a part of my family for 18 years and has seen my children grow up and leave the nest. Like your dog , Casey has been my constant companion. Her passing will leave a huge hole in my heart & life. After she passes, I think I will take your advice and go find a good section of trail through the woods to wander and reminisce. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and strength.
I am so sorry for your loss, Jessica! Thank you for sharing the depth of your feelings for Hank. I know what you mean about how losing him feels like losing a child. We had my boy for more than 15 years. Although it’s already been over a year since we said goodbye, I am still having a very hard time dealing with his death.
It’s rare to find others who can relate to such intense feelings about an animal. Knowing that there are others like you, who feel the same way about their pets, makes me feel a little less lonely in my loss. While talking about Hank must’ve been extremely difficult for you, I am glad that you had the courage to share your feelings with us.
“The dog is a gentleman; I hope to go to his heaven not man’s.” - Mark Twain “We are alone, absolutely alone on this chance planet; and amid all the forms of life that surround us, not one, excepting the dog has made an alliance with us.” - Maurice Maeterlinck (author, “Our Friend, the Dog”)
and just for fun, “When a man's best friend is his dog, that dog has a problem.” - Edward Abbey
So sorry about your pup. A wise man once said, "I don't know if dogs go to heaven when they die. But, if they don't, when I die I want to go wherever they go". Love you, Dixie. Hang in there, and take as much time as you need. We'll still be here for you.
Steve
Miss my hiking buddy, lost him just over a year ago, feeling ya pain 😢
So sorry for your loss take all the time you need to heal. We will be here when your ready to come back.
I’m headed to Pictured Rocks in September, you are more than welcome to join me. It’ll be my second trip up there.
It's so beautiful up there! I'm a Michigander who is stuck in Texas for the next year or two and I'm so jealous of you! Have fun!
Kimberly Finch I was born and raised in Michigan. I have lived in northern Indiana for the last 16 years. It’s pretty flat and corn field filled. I miss my home state and go on adventures there any chance I get.
I never got to it during the year that I lived in the US, but I was looking at the Ice Age trail in Wisconsin. Maybe that's a nice option too?
Yes!!! I live near it and we have hiked sections and its awesome!!
Been on it many times. Every section is very different, beautiful country
I have never grieved so hard in my life until I lost my cat a couple of years ago. I understand your pain. So sorry 😔
Sorry for your loss the unconditional love ❤️ of a dog is one of Gods greatest gift to man..been there many times cry then go get a new puppy
I'm so sorry for your loss Dixie. When my 15 years old cat passed away I thought I could never bare this amount of pain. But I took a kitten and the necessity to take care of this little creature really helped me to get through. He became my new soulmate and I really love him. Although it still huts sometimes when I think about my loss the time heals and it is getting better.
You are great at what you're doing and I really love your channel. In my opinion it is one of the most informative and inspirational in the field. I learned a lot from you and I'm efficiently using these skills in my trips. Thank you so much for sharing all these knowledge.
My sincere condolence for the loss of one of your "kids."
I know that feeling oh too well.
Sorry for your loss, I'm another one of those that considers our dogs as family members.
😢❤️❤️❤️ we just lost the best cat in the world. He was an 9 month old rescue when I got him 15 years ago. The only demand he ever made was for cuddles. Virtual hugs as we sob together.
Sorry for your loss. Pets are family members and are dearly missed. Yours is a great channel!!
You're awesome, Dixie. We love you and your videos. And Thank You for taking the time to share your videos and your experiences with the world.
Pets are family! My condolences :-(
When I lost my cat I cried like never before :-(
You should watch "Hunt for the Wilder People" if you can't get out to New Zealand this year.
Dixie, I know you have roots in Florida, but I really wish you would reconsider and not do the Florida trail. Mountain lions and grizzly bears are one thing, but the two-legged, transient predators in the woods of Florida are completely different.
At the very least, travel in a group and arm yourselves.
Dixie I'm very sorry for your loss. I also treat my fur puppy as family.
As others have mentioned the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail in SW Pennsylvania is 70 miles of awesome wilderness. I have been training my lungs and legs for about 2 years now in anticipation of thru hiking this trail. I've section hiked most of it several times since I was a kid. Now at 50 i'm ready. I was researching my backpacking plans and came across your site and videos a few months ago and you inspired me so much. You helped me realize that I don't have to be in perfect shape or able to trek 30 miles a day and I don't have to own all the newest equipment. So, Thank you very much for the help that you unknowingly gave me. You also made me feel less crazy about wanting to thru hike solo (I thought I was the only one).
I am starting my NOBO thru hike of the LHHT in mid September 2020 and have the itinerary set and paid. It would be an honor if you would choose to join me.
My condolences on the loss of Hank. Dogs are our family members. We lost Coda 12 years ago and haven't been able to get another dog since. Thanks for the update. Good Luck, Rick
I'm sorry for your loss, Dix. Their lives are so short, yet they bring us so much joy.
First let me say my heart breaks for you and your pup. I’m old I’ve been through it several times and and never gets easier.
I’m new to following you. You’ve been invaluable in helping me understand how to hike and camp for enjoyment. I learned hoe to hike (hump) and camp (bivouac) in the Marines..... I’ve had forget most of what I knew and learn new things.
Thank you for being you.
God bless and WDE!
Michael
Thoughts with you at these very tough times. Pets are part of our family. They bring so much joy in our lives. X
I'm just now seeing this video. I am so sorry for the loss of Hank. I, too, can relate when I lost my precious Great Dane. It was such a blow, and I still to this day think about her at times (it was 14 years ago). They are fond memories now, but can still be painful sometimes. Praying for you during this time.
I’m sorry for your loss Dixie. It’s a hard thing to go through. I hope you’re feeling better these days. And thanks for always keeping it real.
Sincerely, Jeremy
I'm so sorry for your loss. Dogs are the best things on earth. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us.