Well, I thought I would have a giant revelation to report, but I don't think I've realized it yet. I've been finished and home for over a week now. It's kind of a weird feeling, and interesting how quickly I have relapsed back into "normal" life. I'm caught up in distractions, which are mostly electronics: phones, computers, TV, etc. Unfortunately I am already focused and worried about money. I have realized, though, that I cannot work a pointless job for the sole purpose of making money. My job must have purpose in itself and create change.

As far as the trail goes, it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I had so many memorable experiences I can't begin to list them all. It wasn't about the miles, it was all about the smiles. Many of the best times occurred off the trail in town, usually from the gracious people I met. I was reminded that there are truly selfless people still out there. Many times I wanted to be done and just go home, and often some trail magic from a nice person came along, and it gave me just the push I needed to continue on. My journey will always be something important that I did, and I believe it will lead me on to great things.

I want to thank all of you that have followed my journey and provided support, especially my family. Thanks to my donors as well, I am nearing my goal, and will keep the lines open until October 15, when Katahdin officially closes for the year. Each and every one of you was an integral part to my success.

Living in the woods was the most freedom I have ever felt. Every day was a challenge, physically and mentally, and also a reward. Five months is a very long time, though. A dose of "civilian" life every now and then was quite necessary. To anybody thinking about a thru-hike, commit to it and get yourself to that trailhead. From there you'll be surprised how far one foot in front of the other can take you.

Springer: March 26, 2012 -- Katahdin: September 6, 2012

I DID IT!! It's hard to believe what I've accomplished, and I'm sure it will all sink in over the coming days. Look for a final post in the next week.

Well folks, I'm all but done. As of yesterday I hiked everything except for Katahdin. I was at the foot of it yesterday, and the thing is BIG. I will be spending two days in Millinocket, before summitting Thursday, weather permitting. My parents are coming up tomorrow night, which I am very glad for, and this weekend, at long last, I will return home.

5.2 extremely tough miles remain. It is a 4,000 foot climb, mostly above treeline, with 3,000 feet occurring in just 2.3 miles. Seeing the sign with 'Northern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail' on it is all that matters. It will be an emotional time. I look forward to sharing my experiences with you all.

Katahdin from Abol Bridge. The peak is covered in clouds, as it often is.
(by the way, I camped my last night where those boats are)

I saw Katahdin today. It was epic.

In Monson, which is not much of a town, for the day and night. This is the last town stop, and is located right before the 100 Mile Wilderness. This is the most remote part of the trail, being located many miles from any town. On the other side lies Katahdin and the end of my journey. It should be an exciting and emotional time. Tomorrow I go dark. I'll see y'all on the flip side.

220 miles left. In Rangeley, then briefly stopping in Stratton and then Monson. Then begins the 100 mile wilderness, and on the other side is Katahdin, the toughest climb on the AT. There's a bit to go, but it will all be over soon. We are feeling better and hoping the skies remain clear, as our journey comes to a close.

I think the Noro Virus has caught up with us. Spending some time in Rangeley, at a nice place at least. So ready to be done at this point. My body is shot.

I'm in Maine but have had wet feet everyday. Planning on summitting September 6. Almost there!

I have made it through the White Mountains, and it was by far the most physically challenging week on the trail. It was also rewarding, and the mountains were very beautiful. The trail went above treeline for the first time, which is only about 4400 feet up here, and we were blessed with good weather. It rained 2.5 inches the night before we climbed Washington, but the skies cleared for us when the sun arose. The trails were very treacherous at times and we only got hit with rain above treeline once. The trail was so steep and slick at times it was nerve-racking, and there is definitely a sense of relief being done with it.

I am in Gorham, NH, which is our last planned zero day. Tomorrow evening we plan to be on the Maine state line. There are 5 town stops from there and 280 miles to Katahdin: Andover, Rangeley, Stratton, Caratunk, Monson, and through the hundred mile wilderness to the end. This should take about 3 weeks. This coming week will be very difficult still, but then things smooth out.

Yesterday upon entering our "old-fashioned" motel room my body just shut down. I was running on fumes. It will be adrenaline that pulls my body through this. The end is just about in sight, and it is quite hard to believe. I have been filling up on food, specifically fast food. Apparently there is none in Maine. In fact, I don't think there is much of anything in Maine, except water. I will try to keep up on here. Maine is said to be the most rugged and remote state on the trail.

Thank you all for following. I really do appreciate it. It helps to keep me going.

In Gorham, New Hampshire, finished with the Whites. Zeroing here tomorrow. Look for a good post to come.

...and they are brutal...and treacherous...and a sight to see.

Into the Whites...

Another great series of trail magic and a night out at Dartmouth. New Hampshire begins today. It's the beginning of the end. :)

On the train north back to the trail thinking to myself, am I actually headed home? It's going to be a bittersweet finish.

My last big break is coming to an end. Tomorrow I will be on the train back to Vermont. Breaks are always good and bad I have found. It's great to rest your body and see family and friends, but it can be difficult mentally to start back up.

Thursday I will enter into New Hampshire beginning the 2nd to last state and according to many the most difficult. NH comprises the White Mountains which are the most beautiful, difficult, and dangerous mountains on the trail, often being above tree line. Mt. Washington is in this range. From there is Maine, which is said to be the most rugged state. I will be fording waters and hiking through some very remote areas.

It is back into the wilderness and cell service may be scarce, so posts may be limited, but I will do what I can.

The last leg is upon me and is what I have been looking forward to for four months. Bring it on.

So the train isn't as fun as I'd anticipated, but it is better than Greyhound. Passed by Bear Mountain and the Hudson River bridge there, I hiked weeks ago.

In Rutland, just saw the movie Ted. Good times. On the train tomorrow, home for the weekend. The last few weeks have been tough on the body.

75% complete. Vermont is very beautiful and peaceful. We seem to be going ski slope to ski slope.

11/14 states will be completed today. Going into Vermont. Kind of hard to believe. Taking the AMTRAK home for next weekend.

Slackpacking south from North Adams to Dalton. 23 miles over Mt Greylock. Staying in Tom Levardi's hiker house.

I forgot to mention last night that I have received a new camera and pair of shoes. It took a new pair to realize how shot my shoes really were after 1300 miles.

Well we have made it to Massachusetts and also to Gail's pool. We were there last night and were treated with wonderful hospitality. Thanks so much Gail and Tom. It was a special moment on our journey. We will keep in touch.

Tonight we are at the Comfort Inn in Great Barrington, which has been rated the #1 small town in America. Pretty neat I think. We have been pushing the miles trying to average 20 a day. We have done so since New Jersey and hope to continue that into Vermont. We plan to be in Rutland next Wednesday which takes us to our next break, Jul 26-30. This will be tough (we will be hurting). I may be coming home for that. It is undecided. From there I believe it is under 25% of the trail, and two of the hardest most beautiful states, New Hampshire and Maine.

Paying It Forward

Connecticut, although only 52 miles, has had its diversity. The trail has been gentle and beautiful at times, while others have been rocky and extremely challenging. The bugs and heat have been brutal, but I'm starting to feel better about where I'm at. I'm really liking New England, especially the old history it has to offer, and am very excited for a zero day Monday, in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Many have spoken highly of this town.

Currently though, I am in Salisbury, Connecticut, which has instantly jumped up to one of my favorite trail towns. It's a nice little weekender town. Gail, if you read this, thank you. You are so kind. We met at the Country Bistro this morning, which offered great food and conversation. Gail has offered to let us swim in her pool. The plan is now to push to the border later today and get to Shays' Rebellion tomorrow afternoon. This would put us only 2 miles from our luxurious Comfort Inn, where we are staying Monday night. I believe this is all well deserved, for we have put in some extra effort as of late.

Tomorrow when I leave New York and go into Connecticut it will go on the list of states not to hike. There are a lot of delis here making for good eating, though.

I saw the New York City skyline from 34 miles away today. Freaking sweet! Wish I was there.

I guess it's been awhile. NJ was nice, rockier than anticipated. NY is ridiculous with the straight up and down rock climbs. Trying to push miles. Feet in pain.

Slackpacking to Branchville, then back to Catton's for another night inside. It's way too hot out here!

Took a slight detour. I'm at Turtle Beach on the Delaware River. Going to be at outdoorsman Ryan Catton's house for the 4th.

One of the best campsites of the trip so far. May catch the sunrise in the morning. Haven't done that yet.

I don't care how flat it is, PA is HARD! I just walked the worst 6 miles on the trail so far...just utter nonsense.

Two nights in a row where I had to travel about a mile roundtrip for water. Not what one wants to do at the end ofthe day. Everything is starting to dry up.

I dropped my camera off Pulpit Rock on the way up to the Pinnacle. Not sure if it works, but I have the pictures. Don't know how to react to this.

I have misjudged Port Clinton all my life. I have wondered about this place many times when I've driven by. I think it quite nice, now.

A week at home sure flies by. Home is a great place to be, and it was wonderful seeing friends and family. It was just what I needed. My body and mind are recharged, I think, so it's time to get back out there and finish this thing. The next month should go quick, as I will be in a new state each week.

New Look: Hip Amish

Just got picked up by my Papa and uncle. So glad to see them. Gonna be off for a week. It's gonna be nicer than you know.

Finally have Tastykakes back in my diet, but where are all the Turkey Hills?!

Officially half way and casually ate 1.5 quarts of ice cream, since half gallons don't exist anymore.

Hiked in the rain all day...sucked. Crossed the Mason Dixon line, though. I have never been so glad to be back in PA, out of the south, and into the north. Tracking to come later or tomorrow. Zeroing here in Waynesboro tomorrow, and will be officially halfway on Friday, at Pine Grove Furnace. Half gallon challenge awaits.

Maryland is really nice. Good terrain and lots of civil war history along the way. Shame it's only 40 miles.

I have made it to Harpers Ferry, which is a very big deal. It is the unofficial halfway point and also the location for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy headquarters. I got my picture taken and was logged as the 400th person to walk through this year. My parents are here and things are good :)

1000 miles down, out of Virginia, and feeling free.

Roller coaster section completed today. Not that big of a deal. 13.5 miles with 10 viewless ascents and descents, which of course are rocky.

I've become a USA Today reader. Who would've thought?

Finally saw a bear. 4 in one day. 2 cubs that reminded me of monkeys. Doe and fawns mere feet away. Completely different world in SNP. Harpers Ferry in sight!

Shenandoah National Park is great for day hikers and weekenders, not for thru hikers.

This 2 day break has been great. I took advantage and went all out on things. Go see Avengers! Definitely going to be tough pushing out tomorrow. Good thing PA is in sight.

I've been looking forward to this break for a long time, since getting into Virginia basically. We've been pushing miles for a while now, covering almost 270 in the past two weeks, without a day off. We took a nero today and will zero tomorrow here in Waynesborough, at the Super 8. My bodies been breaking down, so things will be real relaxing and hopefully healing. Very excited for movies tomorrow: Avengers and The Dictator. Thursday we push out into the Shenandoahs, and before we know it Harpers Ferry and into PA for the half way point. Things are starting to cruise, but every day is a challenge. 856/2184 miles completed.

Thanks for the birthday cards! Good choice Carissa.

Who knew how valuable, and enjoyable, a newspaper could be.

I keep eating way too much food in town!

I wish I had technologies available to put up a real post. McAfee Knob is all its said to be and more. BEAUTIFUL

The Homeplace was all you can eat and I ate so much I felt sick. It is family style meals, so we were a bit out of place. Lots of people, great conversations.

Going to The Homeplace was one of the best decisions of this journey. Slept on the grass there. Very gracious people. Brian, it was nice talking to you!

Heading to The Homeplace for one of the best all you can eats on the trail, and boy have I been looking forward to this.

Rocks, rocks, so many rocks...

After 2 days of slack packing and 4 nights in a motel it's back out into the woods. Leaving Pearisburg and headed for Catawba on Sunday. McAfee Knob Monday morning, the most photographed spot on the AT. Going to be a heavy pack today. Clear skies through the weekend!

Slackpacked for the first time today. Helped so much. Did 19 miles before 3:30 and even got some jogging in.

We've decided to take an unplanned day off here in Bland. Hopefully we will be renewed, because I want to haul it up to Waynesborough, where the Shenandoahs begin. We are spending a second night (I guess I really enjoy cheap motels), but are still going to hit Pearisburg on Wednesday. That just means more miles (two 20+ days in a row.

Spending the night in Bland. The name pretty much sums up the town. Always glad for a bed and a TV, though.

Happy Mother's day, especially you Mom!

I want to wish a happy early Mothers Day. (in case I don't have service tomorrow) Love you mom!!

Hillbilly hiker feast was excellent. Saw "God's Thumbprint." It's about 8 miles long and was the Vanderbilt's first choice for the Biltmore estate. Boo yah!

So long without service! 3 days of rain but not a cloud in site this morning. Had a monster breakfast at The Barn restaurant in Atkins, VA. Gon' push some miles

Getting back on the trail very shortly. Hope all goes well.

I am taking some time off for Norm's brother's bachelor party. We left Damascus on the Greyhound Wednesday, which was an experience in itself, and are in Richmond with my best friend Bret until Friday when we head to Virginia Beach. Sunday we will be returning to Marion and hopefully re-hitting the trail on Monday. It is a long break, yet a good one I think. I'm not quite sure how I feel about it. Leaving the trail for more than a couple days leaves my body to recover but my mind with mixed emotions. We will see how things go. Up in Pennsylvania I will be taking another long break. I have traveled 21% of the trail but will be in VA for 25% more. I can already sense the mental battle at times. I have my iPod now, though, which may help tremendously at times. We've met some great people, and I look forward to catching back up to them.

As a side note, I have shaved my head.

Hit the famous trail town of Damascus, VA yesterday. Did a pro hitch up to Marion this morning. Waiting for the Greyhound...this should be interesting.

The first Marathon Monday was a success. 33 miles!!

(1/2) Great day. Hardly hiked. Got caught up at Watauga Lake with some good people. Spent the entire afternoon there and are now camping by it. Beautiful day!

(2/2) Also a shout out to the extreme hikers yesterday for Cystic Fibrosis. Tomorrow will be an exteme day for us. Doing a marathon+.

Thunderstorms are much more intense in the mountains. Feels like I'm actually IN the storm.

Days off are amazing. Spent two nights and one zero day in Erwin,TN. I think about the next town all week, and yet now that I'm here I already feel like I've been in town a week. It's time to get back on the trail and make some progress north. Today was awesome, though. I was at the mall, Wal-Mart, and the movies. All very special things. I was under the impression that every town in America had a Wal-Mart, but that is definitely not true. I saw American Reunion, which was hilarious of course. It was a nice escape from things. Could forget about the trail for a couple hours. We have 8 days to go 120 miles to Damascus. Then, we are catching a Greyhound to Richmond and then Virginia Beach for some time off. It's Norm's brother's bachelor party. Looking forward to a new state.

Due to the brilliant cell coverage I see my post went up 3 times. Gonna have to fix that. In Erwin, TN Sun/Mon night. Hopefully going to see American Reunion.

Trail just keeps getting better. Best magic this morning, thanks to Hercules and FAL. Spent a good 2 hours in their home.

Stayed in a hostel last night, it was real nice, did a work for stay. Raked grass clippings for an hour. Rained today, but the hike was nice.

I'm at the public library in Hot Springs, NC. All these small towns make home seem so much bigger. The nice weather seems to be on its way out. Rain is heavily in the forecast over the next week. I had a great breakfast at the Smoky Mountain Diner and will resupply and head out this afternoon, in hopes to set up camp before the rain starts. Next stop, Erwin, TN.

21 miles today to make it through the smokies in 5 days of hiking. Praise to the section hikers from ATL. They really hooked us up.

Things are just great so far. I am in Gatlinburg, TN, almost through the Smokies. We are taking a zero day and resting two nights, much needed by our bodies. My parents are down here and taking real good care of us. We got some real good food into us. Tonight we hit up Tony Gore's. I had beef brisket, pulled pork, ribs, potato salad, cole slaw, and hush puppies. It was brilliant! Tomorrow I plan to pack out McDonald's into the wild. That should gain some comments from fellow hikers. I got a new pair of shoes that I hope will improve my feet issues. Taking time off from the trails to enjoy the small towns is nice, though, I feel tomorrow may be tough going back out. We'll do a light day of hiking, and by evenfall I'll feel right back at home in nature. It was 10 days since I was on this thing called the internet. I was greeted with lots of support and praise. Thank You all! It helps and means a lot.

I made it on to TWLOHA website...hit it up! In Gatlinburg, TN. Bigger post to come tomorrow.

Hit the smokies today. Real excited for Gatlinburg with my parents. Feet hurt real bad though. Hope it's nothing serious. Need new shoes.

Feeling good. Just ate a terrific pizza. At nantahala outdoor center. Got my first mail drop, pretty cool! I'm glad to have you all following along.

(1/2) Been wanting to get something out but service is rare. I'm in NC and its way better than GA. A little flatter and more switch backs.

(2/2) I am sitting a mile high right now in the sunshine, so that makes up for the severe thunderstorm and hail we had yesterday.

Big shout out and thanks to boy scout troop 605 for the food and fellowship yesterday.

I am currently in the town of Hiawassee, GA. The first week has gone by quite well. I am still trying to fall into a routine, especially in the mornings. It is a struggle to get up and pack everything up. The days are tiring and I enjoy the relaxation of the afternoon and evening after we set up camp. I look forward to reading Game of Thrones. We have been going 10-12 miles a day, but will soon be wrenching that up I think. I am very much looking forward to getting out of Georgia tomorrow, for it is much more mountainous than I knew.

Reading Game of Thrones is what I look forward to.

Had some serious bear activity last night. Hitting town this weekend.

Things are going real good out here, but signal has been low and apparently can only post 160 characters at a time with my phone.

Great day. Hitch hiked for the first time to Suches, GA ("the village above the clouds") which consisted merely of a general store and hardcore southerners. Walked back 3 miles and witnessed a propane truck in flames. Seemed quite the fiasco.

Tomorrow is the big day folks. I'm excited, but I woke up today feeling pretty nervous. My family came over and wished me lots of support, and that means a lot, so I'm feeling a little better. I can do it. I know. I just have to take it one day at a time. I am walking for a greater being, and that will help me continue on. Each step has a meaning, just like every life has a meaning.

Thank you to all my friends and family. You are the best.

Cool Runnings - Peace be the Journey

Hit the 30lb mark with food and water. Feeling a little uncertain about weight. Should be 3-5 pounds lighter in summer though.

Had another inspiring morning. Met with former teacher and mentor, Joe Vulopas. Joe, I can't thank you enough for the guidance you have provided me and continue to provide.

Joe, along with other teachers at my former high school are empowering young adults as part of an organization known as Aevidum. Aevidum is a depression and suicide education awareness initiative where informed adults empower middle school and high school students to 1) understand that depression is a treatable illness, 2) know the warning signs of depression, and 3) use their gifts and talents to spread the Aevidum message of hope, and to be advocates for other students in need… “To have their friends’ backs!”

It is great to see so many students dealing with these mature issues in such a positive way. These issues are not selective. They can effect anybody. We all have the power to stop it. We just need to become aware and educated.

Aevidum stands for same things TWLOHA does. I am deeply rooted to both organizations, so I will do my best to attach Aevidum to my journey.

So to all, I say aevidum. Empower Yourself

Def caught some spring fever today. Got out to Middle Creek and tested some new gear. As much as I have despised trekking poles in the past, the things are insanely useful! My opinions on the subject are for surely changed.

It's coming...and I'm not talking about Winter.

So incredibly bored, day after day. I'm ready for you trail.

Another month gone by, just one more to go and I should be off on my journey folks. Tonight I'll be at my alma mater, York College of Pennsylvania, who is so lucky enough to be graced by To Write Love On Her Arms founder Jamie Tworkowski and singer/member of Bayside Anthony Raneri. It should be a fun and motivational evening.

Well, I'm graduated college now and without a job. I guess this was the plan all along, though. To sit by and wait for the trail. It's a confusing time, trying to figure out what I'm supposed to do vs what I want to do. My life has been structured ever since I can remember and now I'm completely free to do what I please. I can go anywhere, do anything. What will I choose? What will I accomplish? Just over two months from now I should be in Georgia, hiking the AT. Whether I finish is an unknown. The thing is, I don't see that as the important part anymore. Just being out there, for a week, month, or half a year stands for the same things and serves the same purpose. I just want to get away for a bit, realize what's important, and try to appreciate life better. I have hope I can make some sort of difference.

You only have to remember that,

What you do in your life,

May change what someone's doing in their life,

And it changes everything.

Feeling very confused...Need to figure things out :/