They say preparation is the Key to Success

Big into quotes, so here is one that I think applies to my current situation.

So make the most of every mile, pack light and love heavy, give it all your heart and soul, so in the end you won’t regret one thing. A.W.

Little over a month until I hit the trail. Am I prepared, both mentally and physically, to spend the majority of the next 6 months outside? Gear-wise I am good to go, I think? Here is a list of some of the key items that I will be carrying.

  • Z-pack duplex tent
  • Osprey Atmos 65L backpack
  • Sierra Designs Backcountry Quilt
  • Kelty Range 2.0 Poles
  • MSR Pocket Rocket Stove
  • Couple pairs of Darn Tough socks
  • Couple pairs of Underarmour undies (most important items of all)
  • Some Ramen, Tuna Fish, Pop-tarts, & peanut-butter. That works right?

food

Life-wise, I think I have everything in order (that statement was an obvious lie):

I carefully told my work my plans of taking my male 6-month maternity leave.  Told them if I don’t get eaten by a bear, die of starvation, or decide to continue being homeless that I’ll be back.

I sold off some assets, so no more loans to worry about while I’m gone.

Need to get health insurance, been slacking on that important step. The Healthcare marketplace is calling my name.

Physically, I’m hoping my body won’t let me down. Been doing some shakedown hikes. Also been thinking of the supplements that I want to take while on the AT.

tent

Mentally, (this could be the toughest) I am going to take the opportunity to enjoy living my life as simply as possible.  Telling my kids / grandkids how I successfully hiked the Appalachian Trail is a more inspirational story than making up a tale of how I couldn’t finish the trail because I got attacked by a bear.

 

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Comments 8

  • George Turner : Feb 26th

    I think you can extend your current health insurance through Cobra.

    Reply
    • Alan Goodwin : Feb 26th

      Hi George,

      Great thought, I have done some research and it looks like the HealthCare Marketplace is cheaper than Cobra, at least for me.

      Reply
  • crumbcakes : Feb 26th

    hey alan, im in the same boat- leaving in just over 4 weeks for springer. hope to see you there!

    Reply
    • Alan Goodwin : Feb 28th

      Awesome! Good luck w/ the final preparations!

      Reply
  • Cooter : Feb 28th

    Alan, are you takin the puppy?

    Reply
    • Alan Goodwin : Feb 28th

      Unfortunately I am not. I don’t think she would make it. Hoping that she can do a night or two when I get up to NH.

      Reply
  • Milan Siemens : Mar 12th

    Most systems are designed to heat a home up to 68 degrees when temps are as low as zero degrees. This weekend however, strong winds could push temperatures below that, down to 30 degrees below with the wind chill.

    Reply
  • keith Mcevoy : Mar 18th

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    Reply

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