Well in response to Madmup blog's question...on what is your favorite Beatles' song and that it is official Beatles' week, I would have to say "Hey Jude"! It is an absolute classic! It was actually very weird when we were at Octoberfest in 2007 in Munich, Germany to hear about 1-2 thousand German people singing "Hey Jude" in perfect English! They went crazy to this song! It was so much fun! It reminded us of a clean version of the piano bar on steriods!
Also, it is the theme of the tribute that CJ, Dynamite, Hoedown, & Dorothy drew for me when I had to get off my AT hike in Front Royal, VA. Even Ironman made a guess appearance! I really miss those guys!
Shepherd!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
My Favorite Beatles' Song! "Hey Jude"
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
A Farewell to "Lakewood"
For all you that may not know "Lakewood" (aka John Fegy), he is the guy who really helped me out in my planning of my Appalachian Trail Hike. He actually thru-hiked it in 2007 and put up some very informative videos of his hike. By the grace of God, he decided to return my email asking for any advice that would help in my pursuit to hike the AT in 2008. His advice and encouragement throughout my AT hike really helped me get to Harper's Ferry. Even though we still haven't met in person, I consider him a real good friend. Lord willing, someday we will get to hangout and trade somemore stories of the AT, and maybe even do some hiking on the AT! Who knows...
You maybe wondering why I am spot-lighting him, but he is actually heading off to Antartica to do some geology research and is leaving on Thanksgiving (of all days!). Have a great time "Lakewood" and don't forget to blog about it! Will be praying for you!
Finally, John is also a very talented musician, and I wanted to put up a couple of videos that actually turned me on to a couple artists (Derrick Webb & Damien Rice) that I had never heard before. You can find his "bathroom series" on You Tube. I hope you enjoy!
Cannonball by Damien Rice performed by John Fegy
Table for Two by Derick Webb performed by John Fegy
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Denali National Park Slide Show 2008!
This is photos from our first part of our Alaskan adventure. We flew into Anchorage and took the Alaska Railroad 8 hours to Denali National Park. We spent 2 half days and 1 full day at the park. Then we reconnected with our tour group back in Anchorage for our week long cruise, which will be another post! Hope you enjoy God's amazing creation!
Shepherd.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Final Day - Cruising
Well today is our last day on the cruise, so we were out to sea all day cruising to Vancouver, BC. So that meant we just did activities on the boat today!
One of them that I was looking forward to was the cake demonstration! We were in the front row, and Dave (the cruise director) needed someone from the audience. Well I didn't want to do it and was looking around to see who would be willing to volunteer, but not seeing anyone. Then Dave stood right in front of me and pointed out that I wasn't making eye contact with him, so he picked me! Yeah! We were going to try to make a German Black Forest cake!
The cake was already baked, so Dave (the guy in the middle), and I had to cut our cake into 3 layers. Then we had to whip the heavy cream by hand. I got good peaks with mine, but Dave's (the comedian) cream was still runny, which really made the demonstration hilarious! After layering our cakes with whipped cream, brandy and cherries for all layers. We pipped some rosettes on the top with a pipping bag...except for Dave's whipped cream being runny...it just ran right out of the bag. It was very funny! Then we put on some chocolate shavings and then topped each rosette with a cherry. The final product is on display above. Mine is the one in front of me. Dave's is the pitiful one on the right, and the chef's is the middle one! It was so much fun!
Amee and I also took some swing dance lessons, which were very fun. Then we just layed back and enjoyed the rest of the day's entertainment...oh and of course ate some more food!
All in all, this was a very fun and enjoyable cruise! I would love to some day go back and hike some more in Denali someday, but for cruising...we will be sticking to warmer weather from now on! lol.
Shepherd.
Ketchikan
Welcome to day 6 of our cruise, in which we ported in Ketchikan! This is the famous place of the "bridge to nowhere"! Well the proposed site anyways. This area is land locked, so the only way into this place is by either boat or plane. The thing about this town is that it is also a rain forest and gets over 120 inches of rain a year, so it was no surprise that it was actually raining on our day there!
So it would actually be a good idea for this bridge to come hear, because it is hard for planes to fly in here due to the rainy weather, so the most reliable way in here is by a ferry boat from Juneau...which takes 15 hours! Yeah, not fun, but it could take you 5 days to get here by plane if the weather conditions arent right!
Well anyways, this town was much larger than the icy straight point. So, we decided to do some tourist shopping. We bought Jacob a new book. Jacob is Christine and Greg Wilson's 9 day old baby boy! Congrats!
Ketchikan, I guess, is the the salmon capital of the world. We did see A LOT of salmon swimming up stream to lay their eggs. The main river was so full of them, that all you could see was salmon! There were thousands and thousands of them! It was pretty cool, but also very disturbing, especially to Amee's mom!
We also took a Duck Tour of the town, which goes on land and water. So our driver not only drove us off a pier, but he also ran the boat a ground! lol. It was fun and our guide was very knowledgable! Not our favorite spot though...due to the all day rain, so not to much to say.
Shepherd.
Icy Straight Point
Today on Day 5, we ported in Icy Straight Point, which is very new to cruises. This was the only port, in which we had to anchor the ship away from the port, and be tethered into the dock with a smaller boat. I also found out that only one cruise ship can be here at a time.
Well this port was very small.
There were many activities to do (fishing, wildlife tours, and ziplining), but we decided just to walk around the port of Icy Straight. It was a cloudy day, but pleasant. This area is a tempert rain forest, so we were able to hike through the very massive pine forest and along the beach! It was very beautiful and quiet!
There were many activities to do (fishing, wildlife tours, and ziplining), but we decided just to walk around the port of Icy Straight. It was a cloudy day, but pleasant. This area is a tempert rain forest, so we were able to hike through the very massive pine forest and along the beach! It was very beautiful and quiet!
We also looked through some tourist traps, but didn't buy anything. They all seem to have the same junk...er i mean stuff! We then took a shuttle bus into the small town of Hoonah, AK. It is just a fishing village about 2 miles away, and it was extremely small! There wasn't really anything to do in that town other than walk around and look at the locals! They were probably thinking...ah more tourists!
This port did allow us to get the best picture of our boat, since it was anchored just off the shore! Pretty impressive!
Shepherd.
Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve
Well today is Day 4 of the cruise. We rolled into the port of Skagway today, and we took a boat over to Haines, AK. Then after a 30 minute bus ride, we arrived at the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, inwhich we planned on taking a 90 minute float down the Chilkat River to look for eagles and wildlife!
God was very gracious to us and gave us a beautiful, sunny day to float along the glacial fed river! It was still chilly, but so much better with the sun shining! The river, since it is fed by a melting glacier, the water is a constant 36-37 degrees...very cold! Plus you couldn't see the bottom of the river due to all the silt...not even if it was an inch deep! Thankfully, no one fell in!
We saw several bald eagles along the river. No bears, but we did get out on a sandbar and saw some fresh bear tracks that were probably from this morning. The salmon were starting to run, so we saw some salmon swimming up stream. One of our guides, CP, even caught two chumb salmons with a bucket, but he let them go. They were huge! His favorite is Sockeye and King salmon, then silver...chumb...and pink.
We all had a wonderful time enjoying God's creation. The scenery was simply amazing. It was definelty Amee's favorite trip on the cruise so far!
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Whale Watching
Day 3 of our Alaskan Cruise, we docked at the town of Juneau, which is the capital of Alaska. Also it is the largest capital in regards to land size in the country. You can only get to Juneau by boat or plane, which is amazing.
Well it was a cloudy and misty day, which they said it was a good day for whale watching because the whales come up to feed more often on cloudy days. Yeah! Well I dont know if that fact is true or not, but it worked for us! As we boarded our vessel, we actually saw a pod of Orcas (or Killer Whales) along the shore line! So we followed them for a while and I was able to get some great pics. The one above is actually of a baby orca whale, who surfaced above the water numerous times.
Then we saw this bald eagle perched up on this cool rock formation as we headed out to search for humpback whales. It was pretty awesome site. We also saw some sea lions as well.
Then we got to a spot known for humpback whales, and we were not dissappointed. We actually had 3 humpback whales around our boat doing some feeding dives. Feeding dives are where you get to see it's tail come up and out of the water. It was pretty awesome. The captain said it was very rare to have 3 humpbacks so close together, because unlike the orca's (who travel in pods) the humpbacks like to be by themselves. We even had one humpback whale come within 50-100 ft. from the boat. You didnt even need binoculars to get a good look at it!
Anyways, it was a great day! Two thumbs up! I love watching God's creation!
Shepherd
Friday, September 12, 2008
Hubbard Glacier.jpg
Well toady on day 2, we woke up at 7 am to go and run 2-3 miles on the treadmill. Then went to breakfast and chilled on board since we were cruising to Hubbard Glacier all day.
We got to the glacier around 2 pm, and it was the best day of the whole season as stated by the staff. Sunny and clear. To God be the glory.
Well Hubbard Glacier is the biggest one we will see. It is 6 miles wide about 400 ft high above the water and about 160 miles long. The picture just doesnt do it justice. We saw alot of calfing of the ice, where huge chunks fall off into the ocean. It sounds like thunder. It was awesome! We also saw about 200 seals laying on the ice near the glacier! It was just an amazing day. So quite and majestic. This day was so beautiful.
Tonight is our first formal night, so time to get all dressed up and get our picture taken.
Shepherd
Overboard.jpg
Well it is day 1 our our cruise. We got in around 8:30 into Anchorage the night before. We departed to Seward around 1 pm on friday via tour bus. The bus ride was uneventful except we did see one moose, but I missed it due to reading the newspaper. oh well.
We got to Seward at 4 pm and got processed to get on board the Radiance of the Sea. We ate dinner at 6 pm. I had an onion tart for starters, then shrimp ravolis and salmon for dinner. For dessert I had a blueberry & peach cobbler. Let the gluttony begin. Glad I brought my running gear.
After dinner we had our mandatory overboard drill with our life vests. They even made us go outside, which was different than the carribean cruise. We had a good time though.
Then we played some Rook and watched a comedian for our evening entertainment. He was very funny and clean. A nice day 1.
Shepherd
Denali day 3.jpg
Well today in Denali, we slept in to 7 am. We had a wake up call for 2 am to go and see the northern lights, cause a couple we met on the tour saw them last night around 2 am. But unfortunatley for us they werent visible tonight, so we went back to bed. Lord willing we will see them on our cruise.
So after waking up we ate our morning poptarts, and we headed off to see the sled dog demonstration.
It was very cool. We got to pet the sled dogs, and the ranger gave a 30 minute presentation of the sled dogs. Then they hooked up 5 dogs and had them pull the sled around a small gravel practice loop. Those dogs have a lot of energy! It is the only NP with a working sled dog team. It is how they patrol and observe the park in the 8 months of winter time. The park is really only opened for normal turists from may to beginning of sept. I only wish I got a picture of the sled dogs with my cell phone, cause I totally forgot to!
Well after the demo, we got back on the train at noon!
Shepherd
Rock Creek Trail.jpg
Well after getting back from our Tundra Wilderness Tour. we decided to do a little day hiking one some of the trails in Denali. It was nice just having my camera and not my 30 lb hiking pack! Amee & I decided on Rock creek trail, which was about 4 miles round trip. It was simply gorgious hiking it. with all the aspen turning a vivarant yellow mixed in with some green evergreens with huge mountains in the background. The shrubs were a mix of firely reds and yellows near our feet. The trail was well manicured and not difficult at all, which was good for Amee. Plus we just wanted to take our time and soak it all in. It is the best and most amazing national park I have been in. Lakewood...if u ever get the chance to get here, you got to take it!
Shepherd.
Polychome pass part 2.jpg
Well so much happened on this tour I couldnt get it all in with only 1000 characters.
I wanted to also tell a little about this photo of polychrome pass. In the very back of the picture is a receded glacier between the two mountains. All the ice and snow have melted, so now u only see the rock and dirt left. It looks like a black tonue. It was very cool. Polychrome mans many colors, which was true of this area especially with the fall colors. Down in the glacier river bed where the melted water from the receding glacier was flowing, we saw a momma grizzly & her cub eating on some soapberries.
It is funny that at the park entrance they say that if a moose charges you to run away as quickly as possible, but if a grizzly charges at you you r suppose to stand your ground and wave your hands and shout or sing. Also if all else fails...play dead. I think that would be very tough to do with a 400 lb bear messing with ya! Well we got back from the tour at 2 pm.
Shepherd
Polychome pass.jpg
Well day 2 in Denali started with a 6 am Tundra Wilderness Tour. We boarded the bus and headed into the park. The sunrise was amazing with some pinks and purples. Then about 10 mins into the tour, we spotted a female moose and her baby next to a small pond. It was very cool. Our first moose sighting, and at the very end of our tour we spotted a bull moose with an impressive rack! Then as we enter farther into the park we spotted our first pair of grizzly bears in a river bed. Awesome! Then later on, we saw some Dall sheep high up on a mountain. They were the least impressive, b/c they we so far away. We also almost ran over a red fox in the road. It was so beautiful. We also saw many caribou, golden eagles, artic tundra squirrels, snowshoe hares, and even more grizzlies including 2 cubs. Wow!
The scenery also was quite amazing since we are at peak fall color, so all the reds, yellows, oranges and greens were amazing. We also go to see Mt. McKinley, which is very rare. cool!
Shepherd
Alaskan Fish and Chips.jpg
Our first day in Denali was uneventful, since we got in at 4;30 pm. We were bused to our chalet, and we got checked in. Our room was very quaint and peaceful. Amee was excited that they had Bath & Body shampoo, conditioner, soap & lotions. Cocunut lime verbena was the scent. Our favorite!
We then tool a shuttle bus to the wilderness access center to pick up our tickets for the Tundra Wilderness Tour that we would take tomorrow.
After all this since it was late, we walked around the tourist traps to check out the souveniers. Since it was only 2 weeks till the end of the season, they had 50% sales on all clothing. I ended up buying a heavier fleece. Amee got a scapbooking book for our alaska photos!
Then we found this Alaskan Fish Co. restraunt that was a hole in the wall place. It had great fish. I had halibut & Amee cod. We also had some great sweet potatoe fries. The guy working there was friends with Levi, who I met on the AT on the rollercoaster. Small world.
Shepherd.
View from the train.jpg
Well it is 2:50 pm and this is the view from the train. It is simply gorgeous up here in Alaska. So much color everywhere. The trees are turning colors and the redness in the ferny plants coupled with the evergreens and of course the mountains in the background. God's creation is so beautiful.
The food on the train has been surprisingly good. We even had reindeer saugage for breakfast. It was quite tasty. For lunch I had the smoked salmon corn chowder served in a bread bowl. Delicious!
So far we havent seen any wildlife other than a few water fowl, but we just entered Denali NP, which is my 3rd national park I have been to this year. We still have about one hour left before disembarking the train.
There is terrible signal up here, so I dont know when I will be able to post these stories.
Shepherd
The Hilton Hotel.jpg
Well we officially made it to Anchorage at 10:30 pm or 2:30 in the morning Indy time. We were beat, so we went straight to bed. The hotel is very nice and the beds very comfortable.
We woke up early to a beautiful sunrise over the mountains, and quickly got over to the Alaskan Railroad station to pick up our tickets for our 8:15 departure. But before that I had to take Amee's pic in front of these cool bears in the hotel lobby ....hopefully we will see them in person!
So now we wait, and I may start shooting some photos.
Shepherd.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Meet Dave.jpg
Well meet Dave everyone. He was our very friendly flight attendant for our flight to Denver. Frontier is nice but they charge u $8 to watch a movie & $6 to watch tv. Ouch! Atleast they still had complinentary drinks, but no free pretzels or peanuts! The flight was uneventful , and we got to see some of the Rockies. To bad I couldnt hike some of the Colorado trail why I was out here! lol.
We r about to board flight 888 to Anchorage. It looks like a full flight. Hopefully we wont be next to another baby on this flight. Thankfully the 18 month old slept most of the last flight!
Shepherd
Frontier Airlines.jpg
Well it is 1:22 pm and we made it safely to the Indy airport thanks to Eric Wright and the nouni (sp?) van!
We have never used Frontier airlines before, but check-in went like a breeze. It literally only took us 2 mins to check in. It would of been quicker but one bag was 2 pounds over the weight limit, which was easily corrected. We will comment on their service once we arrive.
So now we wait for another couple hours, time to break out a new book.. A Treatise Concerning Religious Affections by Jonathan Edwards. Good stuff!
Shepherd.
Our Alaskan Adventure!
Well today is September 1st, Happy Labor day! We are finally awake and getting our last bit of clothing packed up as we prepare to head off to the Indianapolis International Airport this morning at 11 am!
We are very excited to be flying up to Alaska to see God's country for the next 12 days! Thankfully we are flying into Denver, instead of anything in the Gulf coast area! Then, We will be staying in Anchorage this evening before boarding a train that will take us to Denali National Park on Tuesday. Then we will spend Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday in Denali before meeting up with Amee's parents back in Anchorage on Thursday evening! Then Friday we will board our cruise ship for a 7 day cruise down to Vancouver. This is just a quick overview, and Lord willing I will be putting up more detailed posts via cell phone each day of our adventures...so stay tuned!
We have been worried about what to take on this cruise, since it is the complete opposite of our Carribean cruise we took last year. On that cruise we tried to take the least amount of clothes possible since we were there for the fun and sun! But, with this cruise, we wont be lounging around the pool to much (well maybe the hot tub). The weather is suppose to be in the mid 50's all 12 days with the lows in the 40's and the chance of rain nearly everyday. :o( So we will see what God has for us!
Also, We are excited to see if we see any wildlife upclose, since I didn't get to see any bears on my AT hike. They say the chances are very good...bears, moose, caribou, mountain sheep, eagles, whales, ect... So we will have our camera ready!
Well that is all for now! Stay tuned for more updates.
Shepherd
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Harpers Ferry - The End.jpg
Well I made it to Harpers Ferry, which I completed my 5th state! I hiked an easy 20 miles through the rain. It poured all day, but it was nice and cool. No heat and humidity! So I really enjoyed splashing in ankle deep water along the trail, since I was already soaked to the bone! So, I am officially at 1011.5 miles from Springer, and at the psychological half-way point.
Well it is here that I decided with much thought to finish my hike here. I went to the ATC office and got my picture taken as a section hiker. I was the 165th section hiker to date. There have been 662 thruhikers so far.
I have found that the heat & humidity to be to much for me. Lakewood: I don't know how u did it! i am sorry I wont be able to meet you in PA, was loooking forward to it. I came to realize I am more of a cool weather hiker, so with that I am hanging up my hiking shoes indefinetly.
I am very sorry I wetted everyone's appetite, then to crush it after being on the trail for only 4 days. Though, I am grateful I got to see CJ's and Dynamite's tribute to me in the trail register. I am very thankful for everyone's encouragement and prayers.
So with that, I am extremely happy with the 1011.5 miles and the psychological half way point. It is a great place to wrap up my adventure! I hoped everyone enjoyed seeing what the first half of the AT was like, and I hope I inspired someone to get out there and try it themselves! To God be the glory and God bless.
The end.
Shepherd
1000 Mile Club.jpg
Well it is official, I now hiked over 1000 miles since starting from Springer! Unbelievable! It is still hard to imagine, and just think of all the places around Lafayette that is closer than a 1000 miles...such as Louisville, St. Louis, Nashville. etc..
Shepherd
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Hello West Virginia.jpg
Well it is official, I have left the mad state of Virginia for good, and have crossed into West Virginia. I am eating lunch at the Blackburn Trail Center. I only have 1.1 more miles to the 1000 mile mark, so stay tuned!
Shepherd
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Bears Den Hostel.jpg
Well today I zero'd at Bear Den Hostel, which was just what I needed. I have learned that I am more a cold weather hiker than a hot weather one. I have trouble with the heat and humidity.
So today I read 3 chapters in our men's bible study book, 12 ordinary men by John Macauther. It is really good. Then I ate half a pizza while watching the movie Cars. Then I talked with Amee and took a nap till more hikers showed up. Oh, I also helped Hopeful by vacuuming and making the beds. lol. I dont mind helping out, since I was resting all day. Currently there are 6 hikers here plus me. I just ate my other half of my pizza and will be enjoying my pint of Ben & Jerry's real soon. This is the 2nd best hostel to date. Kincora holding the top spot.
I guess this was the summer home of a washington doctor built in the 30's, then the patc bought it up.
Tomorrow I plan to hike past 1000 miles and maybe even into Harper's Ferry. Yeah! Then I will determine if I will go on or stop there.
Shepherd.
Monday, July 21, 2008
The AT RollerCoaster.jpg
Well computer is down at Bear's Den Hostel, so I will have to post via cell phone.
Well hiked 18.1 miles long, hot, difficult miles. I am 991 miles from Springer! 1185.2 from Springer and only 18 more miles of Virginia.
Today I bought my ticket fo the roller Coaster, which ia a 13.5 mile stretch with about 13 up and downs. The cost of the ride...981.1 miles, and they dont even throw in a suviener photo. I tried to raise my hand up and yell Wheeee on the way down, but to tired. Did feel like I was going to puke about 5 times on the ride though...lol.
Well I made to Bears Den hostel, which is literally a castle. pretty cool. Prob about 2nd behind Kincora for hostels. Found out today was the hotest day this week & i believe it. Literally soaked all day from sweat.
Going to zero tomorrow to recoup.
Shepherd
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Hey Sheperd.jpg
Well I hiked 15.1 miles today after being off the trail for 78 days. Yes thats right...11 weeks. Man time flies by! So I am officially 972.7 miles from Springer & 1203.5 miles from Katahdin and out of shape!
Well I was looking through the register for CJ's entry, and low and behold they put a full page tribute to me. I dont know who did the drawing, but it ROCKS! It made my day. The group is singing to the song " hey Jude" but putting in Shepherd instead. Wow! Thanks CJ, Dynamite, Dorothy & Howedown! Even Dirty Charlie made it in, who is CJ's alter-ego! How cool.
Well my streak for company at the shelter continues. Bonnie is here so far and is hiking south. Tomorrow I get to ride the rollercoster! Yeah.
Well I am glad I am back, but already miss Amee. I love you!
Shepherd
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Cabelas.jpg
Well we made it to Front Royal without any problems. We did make a side trip to the largest outfitter I have even seen...Cabela's. Thankfully it was right off the interstate in West Virgina. I was able to get a foam sleeping pad and new hiking pants!
Lois had mention this store before, but it is something to be witnessed first hand! They had about every wild game stuffed and on presentation. They even had an elephant! The male moose was my favorite along with the 8 foot brown bear!
Well we are at the Super 8 motel and we just ate at Villa Giuseppe, an Itialian restraunt. We ate here the last time with all the gang, and it was delicious!
One last thing about the Virgina is for Lovers campaign. The slogan was originally Virginia is for history lovers, but they decided to shorten it to the current slogan. Just some useless trivia for you all! very funny.
Well heading north tomorrow and should be out of VA in 3-4 days!
Shepherd
Gas under 4 dollars.jpg
wow...it is pretty sad when u get excited for gas under $4 a gallon, but this is the lowest we have seen gas for quite some time....$3.85!
Lafayette is expensive for some reason. Currently we are somewhere in Ohio!
Man..i forgot my sleeping pad...will have to pick one up at an outfitters. I have a bad memory. lol.
Shepherd
One Day to Go!
Well folks,
Today is the day. Just woke up in the comfort of our house one last time. We are about to embark on the 10 hour drive back to Front Royal, VA. Yes, back to the state that claims it is for lovers!
For you all who maybe new to my blog. I am attempting a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. I had hiked 960 miles of it before I got injured in the SNP and had to get off the trail for 9 weeks to recover. Now that my leg has healed, I am ready to continue my hike north! I will be posting new pics and stories about my day daily as long as I have a good cell signal.
I am getting excited, but am also worried about hiking in this heat and humidity, which is something I didn't have to deal with before. But it is just something you have to do i guess! I will just drink lots of water and take it nice and easy, esp. at first since I am out of hiking shape!
Well, before i go. I just want to congratulate Yeti, Stovie and Toddy Bear for summitting Katahdin on the 17th of July! Amazing! Go Team Deutschmark! Also, Dynamite and CJ are planning a summit on the 25th of July! Hike on guys!
In Christ,
Shepherd
Thursday, July 17, 2008
The Dark Knight.jpg
Hello all...only 2 more days.
Well in anxious awaitment i am at the midnight showing of the most anticapated movie of the year! Dark Knight! I am meeting Mark Z. and 3 others as well! wish CJ was here though...i know he would love it.
It is amazing at the number of people in costumes...see above picture! I will be stoked if Mark is in costume too! Man I should of said it was him in the batman outfit...lol.
Well cant wait to get back to nature, but couldnt pass up this oppurtunity!
Shepherd.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Prelocks blueberry farm.jpg
Howdy all....only 5 more days!!
Well today I was able to participate in one of the annual rituals in the Redden's household, in which we collect a years worth of blueberries in a few short hours! Yesterday, the Prelock's Blueberry Farm opened their gates, and their hundreds of blueberry bushes to the public to be picked cleaned by the young and the old and everyone inbetween!
So today I braved the mosquitos by putting on my 98% DEET bug spray (that I will be using on my AT hike), and my blueberry picking hat (sorry no picture of me wearing it!), and I headed to the outskirts of Dayton. Even with the crowds and the heat, I ended up picking about 9 pounds of berries for a grand total of $16.75! You cant beat that
So you maybe wondering why I posted about picking blueberries when it wasnt on the AT or on a hiking adventure. But, I wanted to reflect back at all the blessings I was able to enjoy in the 9 weeks I have been off the AT.
Most people may sit and complain about wasted time from the trail as they recover from an injury, but I have really enjoyed the time that God had allowed me to spend with my wife, my friends from church and my fellow co-workers! So, instead of grumbling and complaining...i got to in no particular order
1. Pick blueberries at Prelock's Blueberry Farm
2. Take Amee to a Rascal Flatts and Taylor Swift Concert
3. Go to the Fair Oaks Dairy Farm with Amee
4. Play in 3 softball games with my church's softball league
5. Got to worship with my fellow brother and sisters in Christ at FBC
6. Go to my brother's high school graduation and open house
7. Go to Amee's nephew's high school graduation and open house
8. Got to go to a wedding and dance with my wife
9. Planted my garden
10. Interview and accept a job with ClarianArnett Hospital
11. Go to my first little league game in years with Tracy and Mike! Go Trevor
12. Went to the Taste of the Tippecanoe with Amee
13. Went to the Indianapolis Zoo with Amee
14. Played some Rock Band with our group Nutmeg
15. Got to work again with my co-workers
16. Watch Hancock and Indiana Jones 4 with Amee
Well, that is to name a few! God is amazing, and I am very thankful I had these opportunities to experience! Now that I got to reflect, it is time to prepare for my hike!
Hiking on....GA
Shepherd
Monday, July 14, 2008
Thru-Hiker vs. Section Hiker
Hello all!
I am taking a poll on how I should introduce myself to other hikers I meet on the trail, since it has been 9 weeks since I actually stepped foot on the AT.
Should I still call myself a thru-hiker, since I am still hiking north in the current 2008 hiking season from Springer. Or should I call myself a long section hiker, since I know I wont finish my thru-hike this year? Would love to know what you all think!
There is a poll on the right hand side of the page! Thanks!
Shepherd
Friday, July 11, 2008
9 more days!!
Hello all!
Thanks Mac and PS for your suggestions on my coolfly issue! Glad I have it resolved! BTW..that cutting board is our spare one that we hardly ever use, so she wasn't to upset that there is now a burn mark on it...was surprised it happened though! lol.
Also, congrats to Lakewood for completing the Colorado Trail! He also thru-hiked the AT in 2007, and has been giving me valuable advice and encouragment this year! Could we see a PCT or CDT thru-hike in his future! lol.
Well, I also wanted to give a quick update on some of my hiking buds that are still on the trail. Here is a list of the hikers I know...
Maine: (not to Katahdin yet)
Yeti
Stovie
Toddy Bear (these 3 are Team Deustchmark..minus Bad Hummus)
Dynamite
California Joe!
New Hampshire:
Burpples
Toots
Mass:
Popeye
Unfortunalety I just found out last night about another couple who decided to get off the trail in New York, who I really thought would make it. I really enjoyed hiking with them for the few days in Virginia. God bless, and welcome to the "section hiker's" group! Glad to have you! lol. Their hiking journal is on fivemillionsteps.com.
So here is Amanda and Little Debbie! Congrats on 1400 miles!
Shepherd!
Friday, July 4, 2008
CoolFly Problem Solved
Hello all - Happy 4th of July!!
Thanks Mac and PS for the suggestions. I ended up biting the bullet and taking off the built in windscreen of my potstand in hopes that it would allow heat to escape; allowing my stove to breathe more efficiently.
As you can see in the video below, it worked. I will take the windscreen next to my stove with me when I start my hike in 16 more days. Sorry it is sideways...didnt realize it until I copied it to my computer.
Shepherd
Mac: Thankfully no firefighters were needed with my first video attempt! lol ;O)
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Overheating CoolFly stove.
Hello all!
Only 19 more days till I will be back on the trail, so I took the day today getting my gear organized. I was playing with my new stove that Pastor Scott sent me (thank you!), and am having a problem getting 2 cups to boil before it overheats.
I don't know if it is because of the heat (about 75 degrees out) or because of the windscreen on my pot stand, so if anyone has had similar problems or know how to resolve the problem....comments are greatly welcome! Mac or PS...any suggestions?
I did poke out about half of the windscreen holes to open up the area around the stove, which did give me about 3-4 more minutes of burn time before the stove overheated. So, maybe punching out the rest of the holes might do the trick and just use an external windscreen. Also I have tried different heights of the wicks, which didn't change the outcome.
The stove is a CoolFly alcohol stove from minibulldesign.com. Here is a short video of what it looks like when it overheats....this is about 12 minutes into the test.....
Shepherd.
PS - Thanks for the Heini wrap! It is nice to be able to pick it up without burning my hand! It was very easy to put on!
Saturday, June 14, 2008
AT Hike 2008 Photo Slide Show part 3: Pearisburg to Front Royal
Hello all!
I finally have edited and compiled all my pictures taken so far on the AT! It was so much fun to remember all that I got to see on the AT! So, here is my 3rd installment of my 2008 AT photos!
Also, mark your calenders! Starting on July 20th, I am getting back on the trail at Front Royal. My leg is feeling great, and I am planning to hike for about 4 weeks. I will just hike until my time is up, and will just see how far I can get! I can only hike for 4 weeks cause Amee & I are going on an Alaska Cruise!
So that means I won't finish all the trail this year, which makes me a "section" hiker instead of a "thru-hiker", but that is ok. I plan to finish it in the next year or two in smaller sections, but Lord willing, I WILL finish it!
So more post to come soon!
Hiking on!
Shepherd
Saturday, May 31, 2008
AT Hike 2008 Slide Show part 2: Hot Springs to Pearisburg
Hello all,
Here is part 2 of my 3 part series of photos that I took on my half finished trip on the AT. I hope you enjoy! More to come soon!
Shepherd
Friday, May 30, 2008
AT Hike 2008 Slide Show part 1: Springer to Hot Springs, NC
Hello all,
Today as I continue to recoup, I decided to work on my pictures that I took on the trail. So far I have only been able to touch up from Springer to Hot Springs, so here is the slide show for this section of the trail!
It sure does bring back some great memories as I put this slide show together, especially CJ at CJ's diner. That video of him trying to flip the pancakes...classic! lol.
I sure hope CJ is doing well, as well as: Dynamite, Cowboy Killer, Yeti, Toddy Bear, Burpples & Toots, and Popeye. All of them have made it atleast to Harpers Ferry...congrats to them!
I hope you enjoy...more to come soon!
Shepherd
Monday, May 26, 2008
Turkey Run State Park Hike - Memorial Day '08
Well today I went with a few friends from church to Turkey Run State Park for a little bit of hiking! We only hiked about 4 miles today, but I was able to see how well I have recovered in the 3 weeks I have been off the AT. I would say I am about 60% healed.
It was different hiking as a day hiker, but actually it was nice! I got to come back home afterwords...plus I didn't have to carry a 30# pack. It was a nice day to hike though and had some great company!
Since I am still in the spirit of the AT, I made sure all that hiked with me had trail names. So,
Jennifer was "LJ",
Abby was "A&W",
Lance was "Sweet Action"
Lance was "Sweet Action"
Matt B. was "Shutter"
Eric was "Mere Cat"
Eric was "Mere Cat"
Shepherd in the cave
Looking at the suspension bridge
Learning about the history of covered bridges
Shutter taking a break near the covered bridge
Some of the more challenging part of trail #3!
The guys leading the way!
"LJ" & A&W" on our way to Turkey Run!
Monday, May 19, 2008
And the WINNER is.....
Well it still looks like some people are still wondering if I am getting back on the trail or maybe they are the people who don't know that I had gotten off the trail yet. But anyway, there are still some people looking at this blog!
So in that case, I will post who won the "Biggest Loser" game that I set up before I left. It was a game to guess how much weight I would lose on the trail with a tie breaker question of how many poptarts I would eat!
Well I ended up loosing 17 lbs! I weighed in at 150 lbs...down from 167 at the beginning! I hope to keep it off as long as possible! So...the winner is!
With a guess of 152.5 lbs, which was the closest without going over...is Liz Ayres!!! Yeah!
So her winning gift has to deal with FOOD, which is what I dreamed about all the time on the trail! She is getting a $30 gift card to my favorite pizza joint....PAPA JOHNS, and a $30 gift card to my favorite ice cream location....COLD STONE CREAMRY!!!! She has 4 kids, so both should come in handy!!
Shepherd!
p.s. Stay tuned cause I am healing well, and getting the hiking bug again! Lord willing, I will be back on the trail at the end of July or beginning of August! I need to work a bit to save up some more money in the meantime!
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Good-bye Virginia & Welcome Home!
Amee, made me this sign to say good-bye to Virginia, cause I was hoping to be rid of it by the time she came to see me. But in the end, I did say good-bye to Virginia & hello to Indiana!
Kimbra & Jed made up this AWESOME welcome home sign that they put on my garage, so I could see it when I got home! They even put a picture of my favorite place...McAfee Knob...how cool was that! Plus they got many of my co-workers from the hospital to sign it for me! What a great gift! Thanks Kimbra & Jed and all that signed! You guys ROCK!
It is nice to be home!
Shepherd.
Monday, May 5, 2008
The Farewell Post: A Hiliarious Video of "The Hiker" song!
Here is a hilarious version of the "Hiker" song sung by Lee & Matt. Two great friends from church! I couldnt stop laughing! Hope you enjoy! Great job, but dont quite you day job!
Well, it is time to say good-bye for now. Who knows, this blog maybe up and running quicker than one may think. We will see what God has in store! Again, special thanks to Pastor Scott, who went well out of his way to get me some much needed and useful gear while on the trail! Thank you, PS! Hike on, and keep fighting! You will be in my prayers!
Also, thanks for the encouragement & prayers during my 2 months from all who were...as Mac would call it..."arm chair hiking". I love it! lol. It has been a blast. Now it is time to get back to Indiana for some recouperation!
In Christ,
Shepherd
Sunday, May 4, 2008
AT Trip in Review: It is not the destination, it is the journey.
Day 62: 5/4.
Well today is my last day of my 2nd month out on the trail. I was hoping to write this post atleast 2 more months from now, but God has different plans for me. I truely believe everything does happen for a reason, and that God is in total control of what happens in my life. He could of easily prevented me from having this injury, but He allowed it in my life at this point on the trail. What a wonderful chapter in my life to reflect on and Lord willing tell my kids about someday!
This trip has been 8 years in the making, atleast that is how long I have wanted to do it. I feel blessed that God allowed it to happen this year, even though I didnt finish...it is more about the journey than the destination. I have gotten to know many great people that I wouldn't of... if not for this trip, such as Pastor Scott, Mac, Russel, Lakewood, Just John & all the 2008 thru-hikers that I met on this trip!
I had a wonderful time enjoying God's creation, getting back into reading God's word, meeting new people and getting to experience many cool AT traditions! Plus eating a bunch of junk food and still loosing weight!
It is difficult to really recap 2 months worth of the trail, with only having about 24 hours to reflect on it. So I will do my best & start by putting up some stats on my trip.
Food: ( ) = number of item eaten total on trip
Poptarts (124); Snickers (49); Paydays (17); Milkyways (18); Reeses (4); M&M's (7); Skittles (2); Rolo's (4); Cookies (20); Nabs (21); Ice Cream pints (5); DQ Blizzards (3); Tuna (62 oz); Tortillas (40); AYCE buffets (6); Sweet Teas (11); Eggs (14); Pancakes (6); Pizza Slices (34); Clif Bars (16); Spam singles (12); PB&J (9); Bags of chips (5); Burgers (6); Fries (6)
Spending the Night:
Shelters - 40
Hotels - 11
Tarp -3
Hostels - 5
House - 3
My favorite Places on the Trail: (#1 = most favorite)
#1 - McAfee Knob
#2 - Little Hump & Big Hump Balds
#3 - Unaka Mnt Pine Forest
#4 - Grayson Highlands
#5 - Smoky Mnt National Park
#6 - Tinker Cliffs
#7 - Max Patch
#8 - Roan Highlands
#9 - Wesser Bald Tower
#10 - Tray Mnt shelter overlook
The people I will miss most on the trail! (I met 111 thru-hikers on the trail!)
#1 - California Joe (of course!)
#2 - Pastor Scott, Ralph & Bob (The 3 Amigo's)
#3 - Burpples
#4 - Toots
#5 - Team Deustchmark (Bad Hummus, Yeti, Stovie & Toddy Bear)
#6 - Ruby Tuesday
#7 - Popeye
#8 - Dynamite
#9 - Cowboy Killer
#10 - Captain Jack
Mileage breakdown: 957.6 miles traveled in 62 days which averages 15.4 miles/day
Zero's days - 5
1-5 mile days - 1
6 - 10 mile days - 11
11 - 15 mile days - 11
16 - 20 mile days - 14
21 - 25 mile days - 13
26 - 30 mile days - 5
31 + mile days - 1
I am glad I was able to share my faith, give my testimony & talk openly about God on the trail and in my blog.
The thing that would actually bring me the most joy would be to hear that someone reading my blog or that I met on the trail, would have realized that they are a sinner, & realize their need for a Savior (to save them from their sins). And, that that person would of admitted their sin and placed their trust of salvation in Jesus Christ and His work on the cross!
If anyone has questions or concerns about their eternal destination feel free to email me, call me or even visit me if you want...our door is always open. I am sure Pastor Scott, wouldn't mind it if you contacted him as well...see the link to his blog!
"Do you not know? Have you not heard?
The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth
Does not become weary or tired
His understanding is inscrutable.
He gives strength to the weary,
And to him who lacks might He increases power.
Though youths grow weary and tired,
And vigorous young men stumble badly,
Yet those who wait for the LORD
Will gain new strength;
They will mount up with wings like eagles,
They will run and not get tired,
They will walk and not become weary. "
Isaiah 40: 28-31
Shepherd.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Emergency Trip in Front Royal.jpg
Day 60: 5/3.
Well today I saw off Team Deustchmark at 11 am as they continued their trip up north on the AT after checking out of the Quality Inn. I then went to test out my leg with a very short walk to the visitor center. I continued to have very sharp pain in my leg and continued to have numbness in my right foot, which worried me the most. This even after icing my leg pretty much all day yesterday and this morning, and taking my regular doses of Vit I.
So, I came back to the hotel and checked in for the night. I thought about maybe staying at a hostel, but when I called, the lady wasnt to thrilled with a hiker staying for 2 days. Totally understandable.
So, I was chilling out in the hotel resting my leg, when Amee called during her lunch break. I gave her the update, and we decided that I should check to see if I have a stress fracture or compartment syndrome going on. So, I called my family doctor oncall (Dr. Cooper). She also was very worried, and recommended me to go the ER and get it checked out.
So, I got a cab and took my first ER visit in as long as I can remember. I was quickly processed and triaged. The doctor quickly saw me and ordered up the x-rays. Then the came back and said that he saw no obvious stress fractures, but said my right ankle was significantly swollen, which is causing the numbness in my foot. So, his recommendations were obviously not what I wanted to hear, but I knew it was coming. To get off the trail and rest my leg for 6-8 weeks. I asked about maybe 5 days of rest, and he said that it may feel a bit better but you would just continue to be plagued by these shin splints and probably do more damage to your leg in the future. Especially hiking the AT! I was in the ER for 1.5 hours (amazing!)
Lakewood: I hope I dont have the insurance problems that you had to go through in your 2007 thruhike! I am sure I will, because you know how insurance companies are! lol.
So, what does that mean for me. Well, I took a cab back to the hotel and waited for Amee to get off work to talk about it.
Painfully and through many tears, I have decided to get off the trail at mile 957.6 at Front Royal, VA. Virginia finally got the best of me, but I am totally fine with it, and am at peace. All day, I have been reflecting on the amazing gift God gave me to do this trip, see all that I have seen, and met some amazing people! I am so thankful. I pray you aren't to dissapointed with me. I know that is stupid to think, but I have enjoyed getting to know all of you that have been following me on my journy!
So, Amee is coming to get me on monday and then we are headed back to Lafayette on Tuesday. She is excited to have me coming back home. I plan to write 2 more posts over the next 2 days (a trip in review & a farewell post), so stay tuned!
I am a statistic though...80-90% of all people who start this trail, DONT make it to Katahdin. So, my hats off to Bill Tilt (Yossarian) and John Fegy (Lakewood) who have done the whole AT in one season! It is by far the TOUGHEST thing I have ever done in my life!
Again, thank you all for the support and encouragement that you have provided, but more on this in my farewell post! To God be the glory! We serve an amazing God!
Shepherd
GA-->Front Royal 08
Friday, May 2, 2008
Update: Change of Plans
Day 59: 5/2.
Well after talking to my wonderful and brilliant wife that God has blessed me with, I have decided to take the next 5 days off from hiking to rest my shin splints that have plagued me the past 3 days. What great wisdom, eh! So instead of Amee meeting me on Monday at Harper's Ferry, she will be coming to Front Royal, which is actually a nice, big town with full services. The prices in Harper's Ferry are outragious. So that means, I will be chilling here in town and taking advantage of creature comforts, such as running water, showers, flushable toilets, and soft beds! Wow.
Then after she visits on monday, tuesday and wednesday, I will be resuming my AT hike heading north to Katahdin, and Lord willing leaving the dreaded state of Virginia starting Thursday! But, Virginia they say is for lovers! lol.
Again, thank you for all your encouragements and texts. I really appreciate it! I do miss you all! I am almost half way! Yeah!
I will continue to blog about my experiences in this wonderful town of Front Royal, and will probably become a Civil War buff by the time I leave. I guess the battle of Front Royal was here, so it should be interesting.
Hiking on, with a short break!
Shepherd!
Front Royal - Nero
Day 59: 5/2. Officially hiked 2.9 miles to US 522 this morning, to procure a ride into Front Royal with Team Deustchmark. It was a warm night last night with the temps hovering in the low 60's, which caused me to sweat quite a bit in my 15 degree sleeping bag. Definelty shedded some layers during the night!
Well, hitching into town is always an experience especially with a group of 5 smelly hikers. So Bad Hummus was up for the challenge at getting us a ride. His family is from India, so he looks kind of threating especially with his big beard. So we timed him. Almost immediately a cop actually turned around in the road and came back to where he was trying to hitch a ride. We were like...oh no...he is in trouble, but the officer just wanted to make sure no one was injured. Which was nice, but he didnt offer us a ride! So then 10 minutes into the event, he was able to get a guy in a truck to pull over and give us a ride into town! Yes! He even showed us where the all you can eat buffet was! How nice!
So then we just chilled out at the visitor center and outfitter, since it was still to early for lunch. Then at 11:00, we hit the AYCE buffet at Victoria's, which was a pretty good one...if I must say. I have become quite the critic on AYCE's since being on the trail! Yeti won top honors by putting down 5 FULL plates of food. Then we waddled over to the post office for maildrop pickups and then went to the Quality Inn for the day.
Parents are wonderful! Toddy Bear's parents were in town and met us. They graciously bought us lunch and paid for our night in the hotel room! Such kindness, and I am not even in Team Deustchmark. I am blown away by there generousity. Again, thank you.
So right now, I have been resting my leg, putting ice on it and taking the routine doses of Vit I throughout the day. Although, I have like no appetite for some reason. I had to force myself to eat lunch today, and will have to for dinner as well. My stomach has just been doing flip flops on and off during the day. Took some Pepto Bismol as well, which usually helps. It might be the ice cream I had at lunch, or just the shock of real food for a change. This is pretty usual in towns that I visit. My body must not be as young as it once was. Plan on getting some Papa Johns for dinner, and that I will not turn down!
So the next 4 days are LOW mileage days. Day 1 -15, Day 2 - 15.3, Day 3- 14, Day 4 - 9.4 into Harpers Ferry. So my right shin should do ok. I cant wait to see Amee and have a couple of zero days!
Andrew: GORP = Good Old Raisens & Peanuts! A hikers must. Never have a day without it! And nope...havent had to use the Flagyl yet! It is my most valued possesion I carry with me!
Well, it is getting dinner time! God bless. Thanks for all the prayers with the shin splints.
Shepherd.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Floyd Wayside Shelter.jpg
Day 58: 5/1. It's official, I am crazy. By the grace of God, I made it the 23.6 miles to Floyd Wayside Shelter, plus the fact that I know I overdosed on Vit I (Ibuprofen). My right leg shin splint bothered me all day & my foot still feels like it is broke in two. But I am planning to take a nero day tomorrow into Front Royal (only 2.9 miles away). I was trying to make it into Harpers Ferry a day early so Amee & I could have 2.5 days together. I just dont know what happened. Guess Pastor Scott was right about the too fast too soon quote awhile back.
I am officially 954.7 miles from Springer & 1221.5 miles from Katahdin. I officially said good bye to the Shenandoah National park today. It was actually a very nice hike for the most part..except for my shin splints. I didnt see any bear, but did get my cheeseburger and fries today. The blackberry milkshake machine was down though. Bummer.
Full shelter tonight with Team Deutchmark, Squire & a SOBO named Micheal.
Shepherd
Bad Hummus eyeing his land in SNP.jpg
Day 57: 4/30. Officially hiked 26.8 miles today to Pass Mnt Hut. We are officially 931.1 miles from Springer & 1245.1 miles from Katahdin.
I got to eat at Big Meadows Wayside today for a second breakfast. We were 30 mins to early for lunch. It was still good. Will try to hit lunch tomorrow at the next wayside.
I had some major shin splints on my right leg & the rocks after Mary's rocks made my right foot feel like it broke in two. I am taking Vit. I, which helps. I only have one more 20 plus day tomorrow then low mileage days till Harpers, in which I will take 2-3 zeros. Please pray for my shin splints. Thanks.
Saw 7 more deer, which brings my totals to 32. No bears.
Shepherd.
Funny AT sign in SNP.jpg
Day 57: 4/30. Saw this sign and thought it was pretty funny. I have been enjoying all 57 short day hikes on mt AT adventure. lol.
Shepherd
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
