Regardless of my lack of entries here, I have been training. I've started to incorporate hikes in the Uwharrie National Forest that's a two hour drive southwest of Cary. Several hikers have recommended it as a place to train that incorporates some longer, steeper hills. I struggled a bit on the last few miles the first time I was there a few weeks ago, but this past week finished an 8 mile hike without any problems.
The AT Thruhiking class at REI was very interesting and helpful. I've picked up a few additional ideas and have purchased a few pieces of equipment to supplement what I have, including an aluminum snow stake that will serve as my cat hole trowel, and a 10 liter collapsible bucket. I ran into Tim, aka Grasshopper, last night at REI and told him about the indiviodual servings of SPAM that my brother in Austin MN recently sent me. Tim was totally enthusiatic saying he often broke open a package and ate it cold, to the chagrin of some of his AT companions. He ensures me that even SPAM tastes great when you're on the trail. I'm afraid I'll need to personally verify his assertion. I'm dubious.
I've finally purchased a camera that will begin taking on the trail, and so you should expect to see some photos finally showing up here that should add some interest to my ramblings.
I went out this afternoon and hiked the Sycamore Trail in Umstead State Park. Here are a few photos taken on my new camera.
 |
| 63 F on Jan 28. Short sleeves and shorts. :) |
 |
| Stone bridge over Sycamore Creek |
 |
| The woods are pretty gray/brown, but the moss is emerald green. |
