It’s a Mental Game

My Body – My Car 

I have come to realize that my body is like a machine. As I was hiking in sheer pain yesterday, I started comparing it to my car.  My car can run with a little shimmer or shake, it can even run on empty for a short bit.  It might not ride as smooth as a  new car, but it runs.

That is the way of the AT.  At mile 150 everyone’s so-called “Car” may not be riding as smooth as it could be.  I have aches and pains that I didn’t know could exist.  One night,  after a 16-mile day,  I laid down and recognized my whole body was pulsing with pain.  Pushing myself when I physically think it’s not possible, that’s what every hiker is experiencing.

It’s a constant battle to know when to stop and when to go.  Resting when my body shuts down with a so-called “flat tire” is my wisdom.  I then resort to a “24-hour zero day.” It’s the mechanic I cherish.  During this time, I put extra fuel in my tank, oil a few squeaky spots, and get excited to start hiking again.

Hiking with Hardware

Everyone out here has their so-called “game face” on.  I particularly enjoyed chatting with Renaissance Man.  He has served and risked his life for our freedom.   He is hiking with a plate in his leg and a few more pieces of hardware.  I look at him and think two things. First, I pray that he will be able to continue despite past injuries.  Second, I receive a bit of, “Well if he can do it, I can do it” attitude.

It Is a Mental Game: Weather and Critters

Every step is crucial.  The wrong placement of my next step could cause an injury which is never good. I have currently walked through snow, ice, slippery leaves, rain, and of course beautiful sunshine.

I like to hike on miserable days because it makes the nice warm days that much nicer.

Therefore, I compare it to going to work in my “normal” off-trail life.  Some days I feel like working and some days I don’t. Usually, if I go to work on my yucky days, my good days feel like a million bucks.  Currently, I’ll hike through whatever God decides to give the trail.

Coming Alive

I have noticed that the trail is starting to wake up after a long winter.  It brought thoughts of warm days ahead when I saw my first forget-me-not peaking through the cold soil.  The bluish-purple tint of the blossom made me smile in my heart.  I have to mention the buttercups as well.  The yellow sweet blossoms are so cute.  It took me back to my sister babysitting our daughter, she would call her “Buttercup.”

The critters are awakening too.  The coyotes howling at night remind me of being at home in Maine.  I love the furry critters but the snakes and salamanders that have decided to move, always catch me off guard.  I have gotten used to keeping my eyes peeled for slithering movement, as well as tapping my hiking pole ahead of me.  I’m sure by the end of this trek,  they too will be my friends.
As I stated above, it’s a mental game, it’s all about how I choose to look at all situations.

Zero Day

Today is a well-deserved zero day.  I will spend it mentally preparing, letting my body rest, and thanking God for healing my aches and pains.  I will load up on food, hydrate, and not move.  With this, I believe I will be ready for the trail in 24.  This will be my go-to verse as I lay and rest.  Thank you to my family and friends who are continuously praying for me.