Beth Malchus Stafa

Hi from Grandma Gatewood’s hiking grounds, the Hopewell Culture’s Serpent Mound, and Lake Erie. We are Beth and Tom, trail names Dessert Queen (one who looks at the dessert menu first before the entrée) and Mr. Rook (one who plays chess), lifelong hikers who are setting off on our next adventure, a flip flop thru hike of the Appalachian Trail. Our journey begins in April 2023 as we willfully step onto the Goodloe E. Byron Memorial Pedestrian Walkway to cross the Potomac River with our backpacks filled with gear needed for this six month journey. We are embracing the spirit of the month and the characteristics of the Jungian archetype The Fool by demonstrating confidence, persistence, and courage. We believe that it is not too late to aim high, to practice joy and awe, to be curious and try new things and to face the unknown together.

Posts

Food for the thru-hiker or endurance athlete?

Food for the thru-hiker or endurance athlete?

“I’m still not comfortable recommending that people eat saturated fat with abandon, but it’s clear to me that sugar, flour, and oxidized seed oils

Mar 28, 2023 : Beth Malchus Stafa
Gear Before and After Shakedown Hikes

Gear Before and After Shakedown Hikes

“This is my invariable advice to people: Learn how to cook- try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all have fun!” ― Julia

Mar 18, 2023 : Beth Malchus Stafa
How did you come up with the gear you’re bringing?  CQI.

How did you come up with the gear you’re bringing? CQI.

“When we allow ourselves to adapt to different situations, life is easier.” – Catherine Pulsifer There are some who are able to go by the seat of

Mar 10, 2023 : Beth Malchus Stafa
What’s in your backpack?  Ten…Eleven Essential and No Machete

What’s in your backpack? Ten…Eleven Essential and No Machete

“There is no harm in hoping for the best as long as you are prepared for the worst.” Stephen King. May 2021: Harpers Ferry Hike It’s been a year

Mar 4, 2023 : Beth Malchus Stafa
Why Hike the AT?  Peace Pilgrim

Why Hike the AT? Peace Pilgrim

"A pilgrim is a wanderer with a purpose.” Peace Pilgrim (First Woman Thru Hiker of the Appalachian Trail, Class of 1952, First Appalachian

Mar 1, 2023 : Beth Malchus Stafa
Post Pandemic Adventures Bucket List

Post Pandemic Adventures Bucket List

“A Bucket List shouldn’t be about things that will make you happy before you die.  It should be filled with things that will make you happy to die

Feb 24, 2023 : Beth Malchus Stafa
Cast of Characters: Introducing Appalachian Trail Hikers Dessert Queen and Mr. Rook

Cast of Characters: Introducing Appalachian Trail Hikers Dessert Queen and Mr. Rook

“Character — the willingness to accept responsibility for one's own life — is the source from which self-respect springs.” ― Joan Didion, On

Feb 21, 2023 : Beth Malchus Stafa