June 29th – Pen Mar Park, PA
“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself” FDR
I agree with that quote but I’d also like to give honorable mention to bears, snakes, and disappearing food bags. The one thought that has me most nervous about our 55+ mile adventure is this…that I will be the Katz to Dad and Nate’s Bryson. I’m about to head into the wilderness with my uber hiking machine of a father and a super fit 17 year old. I’m hoping that at some point during the hike they won’t look back (way back) and find me trudging along, wilted from the heat, with my backpack empty because I pitched everything in order to lighten my load. 🙂
Despite the risk of being the weakest link, I’m truly looking forward to spending time on the AT with my dad and my son. One of the best things about backpacking is the time you get to spend together free from distractions of every day life…well, other than trying to stay alive out in the wilderness. Haha. I’m also looking forward to meeting some of the folks who have become like family to my dad over the past few weeks.
Tomorrow morning Nate and I will meet dad on the trail to join in his quest to follow the white blazes.
**footnote- Katz and Bryson reference is from “A walk in the woods” by Bill Bryson. If you’ve ever spent time in the woods with my dad…you’d know he can quote it by heart. :)Karen Meehan
He’s been waiting for this for weeks. I know it will give him a boost after losing all his valuables. I keep thinking that I wish I were near enough to you to send some gingersnaps, chocolate, chocolate chip cookies and fudge. I puff up when eating all that, but he needs it. I’m so glad you are going. Give him an extra hug for me, and another for you and Nate.
It’s been so fun following along on your dad’s adventures! Looking forward to more stories as you join him. Have fun!!
This will be payback for our Sierra hike when your Dad and I were struggling up the trail to Glenn Pass and watched you bounding out of sight above us.
It will probably give your dad even more energy having you two there with him. I can just imagine he glee when you come into sight at your meeting place. But seriously, I have no doubt you will keep up with those guys just fine! Have a great time!