I met Aviator today for coffee at her home! I was nervous initially. I was worried she would be able to tell at first site whether I "had what it takes" to complete the AT. Pushing those anxieties aside, we were gifted with a wonderful afternoon filled with stories, tips, gear-talk, hardships, pictures etc. At one point, she brought downstairs an armful of books she suggested I read- she lent me:
1. Appalachian Trials by Zach Davis (which I finished tonight)
2. AWOL on the Appalachian Trial by David Miller
3. Grandma Gatewood's Walk by Ben Montgomery
After coffee, she assisted me to Rockfish Gap Outfitters in Waynesboro, Va. She's a regular there and the guys had worked with her in getting all her gear for the AT and CT-- needless to say, they know their stuff. I went in there the previous week to purchase my LEKI walking sticks and to get properly fitted for a pack.
Aviator requested they place 35lbs in a pack and have me walk around the store for a few minute. The pack I chose was a grey Osprey pack, size medium, with lavender straps (those are growing on me, but still a little girly) . Overall I love it! It's comfortable, the price was right, and Aviator has the same style and brand which support that it's a good quality, durable pack.
1. Appalachian Trials by Zach Davis (which I finished tonight)
2. AWOL on the Appalachian Trial by David Miller
3. Grandma Gatewood's Walk by Ben Montgomery
After coffee, she assisted me to Rockfish Gap Outfitters in Waynesboro, Va. She's a regular there and the guys had worked with her in getting all her gear for the AT and CT-- needless to say, they know their stuff. I went in there the previous week to purchase my LEKI walking sticks and to get properly fitted for a pack.
Aviator requested they place 35lbs in a pack and have me walk around the store for a few minute. The pack I chose was a grey Osprey pack, size medium, with lavender straps (those are growing on me, but still a little girly) . Overall I love it! It's comfortable, the price was right, and Aviator has the same style and brand which support that it's a good quality, durable pack.