We realize that hiking for 6 months is going to be quite an adjustment. What we've learned in our research is that one of the main reasons that so many people don't complete the trail is because of unrealistic expectations. Since Nick's only done one weekend of backpacking and Rachel's extent of experience is day hikes and car camping it only seemed wise to get rid of our comfy bed and pitch our tent in its place. The first night was torture! Nick's ultra light thermarest on the concrete floor only hindered his sleep, so he moved to our luxury thermarest in the living room while Rachel tried to sleep the entire night on her back. The next morning we both woke up extremely stiff and soar. It has taken some time to get used to it, but we're getting there. Heck if we can sleep through the night on concrete the earth's floor should be no problem...right?
Rachel & Nick, as a past part time AT hiker I am excited for you and your journey! It will be one of the most bittersweet experiences of your life and I am happy for you to be able to experience it. Good luck and I am looking forward to following your STEPS!! Denny Shrontz
ReplyDeleteThanks for your support Denny! Joe mentioned that you have done some of the trail,so any advice you want to throw our way is welcome.
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I've heard if you sleep on a hard surface long enough it's hard to sleep in a bed again. It's going to be interesting to see if your preferenes change after your trip :-D I'm so excited for you guys and will be praying for lots of growth on the trip!
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