Time is growing short and we've still found little time for serious training...so be it, it was, more or less, expected.

We've spent a bit of time at 'congregate meals', senior centers, and such during the last few weeks of visiting our parents and their haunts. We've become known as the 'kids' who are taking the 'big walk'. When I commented to one of Dad's frineds that I didn't know if this hike would make me feel younger or older, Joe offered to tell me which it would be.

Spending all that time with the previous generation, seeing their ailments and how they cope, and seeing the still lively sense of humor most have has been an interesting combination of sobering and comforting. It's defnintely increased my appreciation of the opportunity to hike the AT and my desire to succeed. I do still think it will be an unplanned physical failure that will be the killer if there is one.

Happy trails to you.....