April 1, 1997 (Day 13 – milepoint 134.4 – Nantahala Outdoor Center)

Today’s destination was the Nantahala Outdoor Center, which sits on the banks of the Nantahala River, one of the most popular whitewater rafting destinations in the East. The 5.5 mile downhill to the river was steep and treacherous. I crossed the road to the main lodge and, much to my surprise, there stood Roaming Gnome. He had hitched a ride from the town of Hiawassee a couple of days ago when his knee started feeling better. Turns out he had tendinitis, but it’s strong now and he’s ready to cover some miles.

This is my first visit to NOC. I expected a bit of a circus but found it to be a very nice place and have encountered only friendly, helpful folks. I didn’t like spending $16.00 for lunch, though. Won’t make that mistake again.

Caught a shower and relaxed all afternoon next to the river. Starting to think it would be worth taking tomorrow off for a chance to get in a kayak.

Sleeping in a bunkhouse with Roaming Gnome, Void, and Bulldog.

Called home and suckered Mom on yet another April Fool’s Day, told her I broke my ankle. Felt a little guilty when she started crying. She’s been falling hook line and sinker for 20 years now. Time to start planning for next year.

-Aquaholic

April 1, 2009

Hey Aquaholic,

The fact that I’ve always wanted to share our AT experience with people is important, but secondary to the purpose of this internet journal. Indeed, thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail is a unique and remarkable thing to do, and our story is a good one.

But there exists a fair amount of turmoil in this day and age, certainly for me, but also around the world. I’ve been forced to look in the mirror and do something to correct my own turmoil. If I virtually relived our AT hike, the anecdotal perspective might help me realize some level of clarity so I can eliminate all of the energetic weight I have built up around me. Recently, however, it has occurred to me that this might perhaps serve others.

That said, my own turmoil is the focus at this early stage. After eight years of marriage, my wife and I are divorcing and I unexpectedly lost my job in January. I was in no man’s land for a while with an uncertain future and two precious children for whom I am responsible. I needed to shift my energy. I needed to change my mind and become more aware of how I was choosing to live and work.

I got started and I struggled for the first ten days with how to communicate my thoughts and feelings of the present day. I hadn’t really identified who my audience was so I wasn’t clear about my boundaries or how to serve anyone, including myself. This thing is pretty personal. I’m totally exposed. I need to trust my audience.

Then, after a long walk-n-talk with Johnny over the weekend, he helped me find my audience right under my nose.

And here we are: you and me. Pretty simple.

O’