from Michael's letter of 3/14/08...
"No matter how well read we have been in Appalachian Trail literature, experience is truly the only way to adapt to the lifestyle. Of course I cannot articulate all the ways I have changed my perspectives on the world, but when forced to carry my home on my back I have discovered what I truly need. I am truly grateful for the help of Daddy-O and Peacock (fellow hikers) and how kindly they've treated me."
I left Michael at the Springer Mountain Southern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail on Sunday, 3/9/08. Eric (little brother) and I hiked the first mile with him, then said watched him walk north.. all alone, accompanied by the crunch of snow and ice beneath the mighty Limmer boots.
I heard from him next on Thurs, 3/13. He had to stop for a night in a hotel in Helen, GA. It seems that the pack weight (not too bad at 30 pounds) and the heavy boots worked together to cause huge painful bleeding blisters on his feet. He managed to finish 20 more miles or so in borrowed Crocs to hike to Hiawassee, GA for a night in the Blueberry Patch Hiker Hostel. He should be in Franklin by later this week and Fontana Dam, NC by Monday. So far it sounds like all is going well... except for the nasty blisters. He's eating several luscious dehydrated meals daily in addition to high calorie snack foods. It's hard to imagine Michael eating Snickers or HoneyBuns, but they have become favorite calorie boosters.
The trail name? Ishmael (the journeyer) Think Melville, Moby Dick...one of Michael's favorite books.
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