Thankful for the Outdoors!

I had the unique chance to help co-teach a graduate class focusing on outdoor programming recently. As I was sharing with those in the class, some of the takeaways and things learned don't always materialize sense to our conscious minds for minutes, days, weeks, and years to come.

I feel to state that I appreciate this patience that I must demonstrate. I also feel to express how thankful I am for the outdoors. That realm is one that I have yet to grow tired of. While other aspects of human life has brought ups, downs and disinterest, the outdoors remain mysterious, beautiful, and unique! What a blessing it is when we can leave the comforts of our human society and travel into the out-of-doors.

Little remains between now and my bus ride to Maine on June 12th. I move from Boone on May 25th, then I am taking a Wilderness First Responder course in NE Pennsylvania. Fortunately, I have a week and a half to plan final details and pack. The excitement feels about the same - steady and consistent; the patience game, on the other hand, remains steady as seemingly always for me in my life. 

Thank you to the powers that be which continue to teach me what I need most in life!
Best of luck to those beginning their summer, and thank you for your unique gifts of self :)

Best,
Al

Feelin' the good vibes

I have to give a shout-out to those that have been shooting good vibes my way. This upcoming Experience is about a lot of things - some known, may unknown. I really appreciate the luck and best wishes that people have been throwing my way. If anything, it only builds my foundation around this upcoming experience stronger - knowing that people who hear of the upcoming Experience are excited for me.

In turn, I have been excited to hear how various people have experienced the Trail in some way - either from knowing someone, or by having hiked a part of it at some point. It seems that more people in this area of Western NC have experienced a thing I'm about to sample. Stokes my soul to be able to travel the length of our free nation all by foot. What a dream! So, many thanks to those that have been sharing the positivity with me. Tis much appreciated!

Changes within

How do I say this while giving it what it deserves?

Do external glances reflect an internal sense of self? 

Maura and I are no longer in a relationship. I apologize if this is the medium in which you are finding out; many of our friends and family know at this point, but the AT Experience folks may not know till now.

So, what does this mean for the Experience? The show must go on. Bearing in mind what has been planned and accounted for already, things shall continue. While the line-up has changed, the Experience is still set to sail full speed ahead.

To all those that have shown support in some manner, many thank yous. Please keep your eyes and hearts tuned-in as the Experience is set to kick-off on June 13th when I catch a Greyhound bus bound for Maine; getting close!

Happy May,
Al