Sign the guest book!

2/2/2014

Feel free to write a note below for me to see! When cycling across the country and thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, the guest book comments from blog readers were an absolute highlight in my day-to-day activities. Words of encouragement, weather reports, or miscellaneous thoughts always make me smile, so be sure to leave some words for me to read!

I look forward to hearing from you :)

116 Comments

Jeffrey Shutak

2/4/2014 14:59:08

Hey Ryan. Great site. My name is Jeff and I am friends with your Father. He has shared many stories with me about all the great times the two of you had together (7-6-7). I live in North Conway and hope to meet you when you pass through this way on your quest. Also might join you and Dan while you hike in this area. I have already offered to Dan that I would be happy to pick you up at trailhead and offer you a hot shower/dinner when you reach this area. Best of luck to you!

Ryan

2/22/2014 02:15:51

Hey Jeff! I've certainly heard about your hiking with my dad. It'd be a pleasure to have you when I get up in that area, and any help you'd be able to offer would be endlessly appreciated!

- Ryan

Barb

2/4/2014 23:18:24

Whoooooo-oooooo wwwweeeeeeee!!!! It's about to happen! Love your website, Ryan. Great descriptions and explanations for us homebodies. Sooooo hope you can keep it up while on your journey. Talk with you soon.

Steph

2/5/2014 06:33:12

Love it!! The website looks AMAZING. Can't wait to keep reading :) Xo.

Chanda

2/5/2014 12:32:50

Very cool website , Ryan! I will be tracking your adventure to the best of my ability... YOU are truly the coolest guy I know! And as brave as your dad :) I love you! And I am very proud of your ability to see SO much more potential in EVERYTHING that you do! xoxoxo

Jim Christie

2/6/2014 01:38:49

Hey, Ryan, this sounds like a great plan! Maybe my son, Alexander, and I can meet you somewhere along the trail in PA or NJ for a short hike. Alex is 12 and loves to hike with the scouts.

Take Care.

Jim Christie (SLU '81 with your dad)

Ryan

2/22/2014 02:18:21

Hey Jim!

It'd be great to see the both of you and Alex. Be sure to stay in touch!

- Ryan

Tom Wolf

2/17/2014 23:34:57

Hi Ryan. . I like the view of the Boston skyline. Is that one of your "room with a view" shots? Looks like the Westin In Southie. Good luck with your hike. Tom W.

Ryan

2/22/2014 02:19:38

Hey Tom-

Glad you made it over here. Yes, the Boston photo is a "room with a view" shot, and you're spot on with the location... growing up around around that area, I'm not surprised you nailed it. 17th floor of the Westin. Thanks for the best wishes, and I hope to hear from you about your Colorado trail adventure!

- Ryan

Geoff

3/4/2014 08:02:58

Totally jealous. Always been a dream of mine and hopefully still a 'someday' for me.

Anyone else I'd say "Really? You're bringing a full DSLR? That's a *lot* weight for something like this."

But obviously for you, I'd feel like the AT would be getting gypped if you didn't take it. What's the plan for batteries/memory/etc.?

rand gurley link

3/6/2014 04:32:45

WOW great picture and we site how fun. Hopefully you will get David's presents in time. Shipped back to him from Idaho two weeks ago. Have fun and please be safe.

love you
Aunt Rand (the crazy horse lady)

James link

3/26/2014 03:59:15

Wow this looks like a fun trip. I have posted about your journey so others can follow along. I'm looking forward to updates and pictures. Have a great trip.

Mom

4/3/2014 00:44:47

Off you go, Ryan D.....
I love you,
And I am so very proud of you!
Remember...
Argue your limitations and they're yours! xoxoxoxoox

Andy Bramhall link

4/3/2014 05:53:20

Boom Off into the wilderness What a great adventure Always wanted to do the trail but the opportunity never presented itself. You have picked a great time in your life to go I look forward to seeing the route through your eyes. I bet you're Dad wishes he could have 7 months paid leave. I don't think that's an option under Obama care. Stay hydrated and keep you're socks as dry as possible. Good luck You have some great gear Andy Bramhall

Rich

4/4/2014 01:16:19

Ryan,

And off you go!!! We are less than 10 miles from several points on the AT and look forward to seeing you when you get to Duncannon, PA. A home cook meal, hot shower, comfortable bed, and the use of a washing machine/dryer maybe something to think about. Stay safe

Crissy & Matty

4/4/2014 01:16:35

Ryan,

Matty and I are thinking of you today and are most certainly wishing you a safe and awesome journey. We are in your corner and cheering loudly for you and might I say, we are honored to know you and we feel that if anyone can see this journey to the finish line, it is you! We shall certainly miss your presence in the club while you are away! We will be checking in on you and we are here should you need anything!

Betsy

4/5/2014 01:15:37

Wow, Ryan...I'm so proud of you! Following your progress with great interest...best luck always!!!

John G

4/5/2014 02:05:37

Hi Ryan,

Wishing you luck from NE Ohio. I had aspired to the same dream that you are now fulfilling. Unfortunately, mine was not realized for a number of reasons. Living vicariously through you now. Enjoy your trip and be safe.

Tom

4/5/2014 03:26:18

Hi Ryan. I'm looking foward to reading the updates and seeing your great photos. Anything on a trail name yet? Good luck on your hike. Im so envious. HYOH

Jim Odorisio

4/5/2014 09:45:30

See you when you get to Killington.

Amy Deex

4/5/2014 10:21:30

WOW! I am so excited for you as you begin your amazing adventure. I know we can all expect the most amazing photographs from you. I will have fun following you in spirit!

The Nastasi Family

4/6/2014 03:08:51

Hey Ryan--Can't believe the day is here. We are looking forward to following your adventures. Can't wait to see your amazing photos and here about the people you meet. Good luck!

Chanda,Dana,Susi,and Dan

4/6/2014 07:17:14

Hey Ryan! Way to go! WE have always known how very funny you are :)
Yummy pizza for lunch- tho it sounds like you're doing ok in that dept!
Safe travels- and know that you are deeply loved and missed!

The Angelini Family

4/7/2014 00:01:11

Hey Ryan, best of luck to you! This is so exciting! I love viewing your blog! Be safe and God bless you!

Hilary

4/7/2014 15:41:14

Hey Young Ryan - Very impressive and so fun to read. Be safe!

David

4/8/2014 18:13:45

Ryan ~
You continue to amaze me. It's now four days on the trail. I hope you're finding comfort in the solitude. And 'spect you're already making friends along the way. And that you're journaling about this latest adventure in your amazing life.
My love to you -
David

Heather

4/9/2014 03:52:08

Hey Ryan! You are living the dream man! I know it wont feel like it everyday but you are walking to Springer and into a new life. Congratulations and I am so jealous. Keep the trip reports coming, I love them!

Camellia

4/9/2014 13:48:32

Hi Ryan,
This was the first time I checked out your blog. I loved hearing about your day. It all seems so beautiful -- magical even.

Joanne Lyons

4/10/2014 06:54:14

This is so cool Ryan...hope all is going well. Keep posting!!!
Joanne
ox

Kathy Carell

4/11/2014 09:04:39

Hey Ryan: I have been checking on your blog. Your dad told me about your adventure and how exciting for you...Take care of yourself.

GAIL BAKER

4/11/2014 10:28:35

Ryan,
Love your blog! Admire anyone that can do this. Happy Trails to you, wishing you a safe journey

CBG

4/12/2014 01:58:34

While you were hiking thru the Forest yesterday, I was hiking thru the jungle! Pouncing Time Square with Susi,Brette,Dana, and...... Lindsey!!!!! What a treat! Meredith joins us today for some NYC excitement😜. Hope you're doing well. Take care of your knees - you're going to need them long after your trek along the AT is through!
Xoxoxoxoxo CBG

Scott Mather

4/12/2014 04:14:42

Hi Ryan/Kevin, Kevs dad here. Met you and your father on Springer. Sending our two boys (men) off into the wild blue yonder. We appreciate your company for our Kevin as well as your blog. We've turned all of the Mather clan and friends on to it and we're loving the updates and pictures. Just spoke with Kevin and it sounds like you two are really enjoying your little walkabout (ha)especially the fellow hikers you are meeting. Treasure every step and thought....

Peter Henry link

4/14/2014 09:39:15

Awesome blog, love the reading from one jeep enthusiast to another. Keep on plugging and bloging its a great read, very jealous. Good luck and remember if a bear can shit in the woods how hard can it be!

Suz

4/14/2014 15:03:44

Hey Ryan! Love reading your blogs.... I look forward every night to checking for a new one! Your writing allows me to see it through your eyes, beautifully written. I know the NOC! Never been there but many Hampshire friends went there to work as we had a very strong whitewater canoe and kayaking program. Hope the knees and tent poles are hanging in there!
xoxo Suz
PS I don't believe you about beer and milk!

Jim Christie

4/15/2014 02:07:51

Ryan;

Thanks for answering Alexander...he really liked it! DO you have a (very) rough idea of when you'll be in NJ/PA area? We have a crazy Summer schedule but we'd love to meet you at some point.

Jim

CBG

4/15/2014 05:01:01

Ryan... 1 year ago, our world changed. Especially for the folks in Boston . As you hike today, I wish for you the opportunity to reflect and remember - and to take special note of the beauty and the straightforwardness of the wilderness in which you are hiking. I wish for you a day of peace, contentment, and comfort in the knowledge that you are truly and deeply loved... :)

Joanne

4/16/2014 04:23:05

Hey Ryan,
keep the blog going it's great!!! hope you are doing well.
looks amazing.

CBG

4/17/2014 15:17:00

I remember the day we dropped Richard at the Fontana Dam.... His backpack covered in a Hefty black garbage bag. We had slept in the car at the base of the Dam the night before because of the rumors of bears in the area!!! I felt SO bad for him, hiking all alone off into the wilderness- IN THE RAIN!!!! I guess some things never change :)

raymond mather

4/18/2014 02:15:41

Grandpa Mather enjoying your blog and knowing our grandson carousa is with good company. "On to Maine"

CBG

4/21/2014 08:10:30

Hey Ryan... sitting here watching the 118th running of the Boston Marathon- very,very moving, watching the enthusiasm and passion of the spectators, and the dedication and determination of the participants. This "race" is certainly a demonstration of, and a testament to, personal best, and ultimate challenges!!!
Which made me reflect on this journey you've undertaken ....
I am SO very proud of you! I admire your convictions and perseverance, Ryan - I've always known it was part of what makes you the amazing person you are!
Forever and always cheering YOU on! xoxoxoxoxo

Tom

4/22/2014 01:29:12

Hi Texaco. It looks like your having a great time on the trail. I really enjoy following your path using Spot. By entering the Lat & Lon into Google Maps I can see were you are on the trail. I looked on Sunday night and saw that you were still on the move at 10PM. How do you resupply. Do you have any mail drops planned were packages can be sent. HYOH!

Melanie Mather

4/23/2014 14:25:46

Hi Ryan! I'm Kevin's (Crusoe) cousin Mel. Awesome blog - really enjoy reading about your adventures! Please tell Kevin Uncle Jeff, Aunt Lori, Steph, Haley and myself all say hello :-)

Colleen Onos

4/24/2014 07:34:48

Hi Ryan,
This is Colleen from Drs. Coakley and Trainors office, I had you scheduled today at 2:00, I guess your a little busy? Keep up good hygiene on the trail!

Caren Bianco

4/24/2014 07:42:41

Hi Ryan,
Just noticed the guest book, so I'll make my offer to come to our house in Northern NJ for a shower, home cooked meal, washing machine, etc. (Just not July 10-20 as we will be off in VT bicycling with your parents.) Hopefully you will be up this way before then.

Good luck with your hikes. We've enjoyed keeping up with your blog.

grace mckee

4/27/2014 00:45:52

Hi Ryan!
Thoroughly enjoy your blogs! and pxs! jSo pleased that your meeting other hikers that help make your trek so interesting.
Best of luck with the rest of your hike! Looking forward to meeting you in Dutchess County!!

grace mckee

6/2/2014 09:26:11

I wrote note to you after reading your notes re your 60 mile day! D
o not see that is reached you. So sorry! Grampy and I were amazed that you hiked 20 and 1/2hours!!!!! Happy to read the next you took off! Rich and Ruth are looking forward to your visit today!!
Love you, Grammy

Roarke

4/27/2014 16:32:23

Ryan: My wife & I have Siri read your posts out loud every night.
We look forward to your continuing adventures. Hopefully you will reconnect with Cruiso.
Best of luck!
The Roarkes (friends of the Mathers).

Pete from Jeepforum

4/28/2014 04:21:33

Dude great job with the posts! Really enjoy getting to read them, thanks for letting us live the experience too. Sounds like you're having a fantastic time. Be safe and you'll make it to Maine -- You can do it!

Pete

Kim

4/28/2014 10:42:03

We love reading about all of your adventures! Thank you for sharing this journey with us, Ryan. xoxo

Andy

4/30/2014 14:22:20

I've really enjoyed reading of your adventures, I miss it on the days I don't get an update. Hoping you have weathered the three day storm without too much trouble. If you need anything when you get close to the Swift Run Gap area (Rt. 33) in VA let me know.

Derek link

5/1/2014 04:16:34

Found your site through Garage Journal. Keep us posted & best of luck.

Tammi (Mom's Friend)

5/2/2014 01:35:22

Hi Ryan. Thinking of you and hope all is well. Have worried about you and the weather passing through, and no blog posts. I so love following your journey and look forward to your posts. It's as close to hiking as I'll ever get!

Hilary

5/4/2014 05:35:45

Hi young Ryan. We missed you at the sales meeting this week. Glad to see you are doing so well. Your pics and stories are amazing. I am so impressed. Take care!

Amy M.C.

5/5/2014 13:08:41

Wonderful blog, AMAZING photos! Look forward to reading & seeing future posts! Hugs from all of us.

CBG

5/5/2014 14:02:25

Hey Ryan... I am SO proud of you!!!!!! And welcome to Virginia :) Reminds me of a country/pop song about "Entering Marion...Virginia...Shirley...". Ever heard it???
Kudos on a job well done, and a VERY long day on the trial! VERY happy to hear you received your mail drop :)
Saw Mt Greylock today (when the fog cleared...) She said to say hi, and to let you know she's awaiting your arrival! Maybe a stay at the Sweetwood hostel???
Your family loves you very much.... And we can't seem to stop talking about you! Met a woman today who's son Bryant (trail name is Patch) hiked Springer to Harper's Ferry 5 yrs ago- quit when his granddad passed, but plans to restart at Springer this month! NO intention of being a section hiker :) Maybe you'll see him??? My love to you... Mom

AT Freak

5/10/2014 17:24:05

Just wanted you to know checked out your site -- enjoyed your company today at the Hillbilly Hiker Feast !!!!

grace mckee

5/15/2014 11:55:01

Hi Ryan!
We look forward to your blogs! Your descriptions are fabulous! As are your pictures, Will be anxious to view your "good pxs when you return, Keep safe, please, and know that we love you and wish you the best.
Grammy

Joanne

5/16/2014 06:44:28

Hey Ryan,
It's sounds like you are having the time of your LIFE!!! What an amazing challenge ane experience.....stay safe ok?
Joanne
ox

Captain Grumpy

5/18/2014 07:06:29

Hi. Grumpy here... I'm fascinated by your progress from Georgia northbound! Chanda has provided me with your website and ongoing northbound itinerary. Congratulations go to your " explorer hat" and phenomenal initiative to update the impossible into today! Certainly hope I can stay on your itinerary posting and follow you northbound from here to HOME! Please carry on- with all personal congratulations.... Captain Grumpy

Eagle76

5/23/2014 08:28:24

A friend sent me a link to your blog and I'm finding it very interesting.
May you have clear skies, mild temps and a gentle breeze at your back... Best of luck.

Joe and Kathy

5/27/2014 05:53:53

Ryan, enjoying your blog very much. Your writing is fantastic. We've seen your parents a bunch of times recently and between your blog and talking with them it is really fun to follow along. Enjoy the journey, and don't let those tats fade...
Joe and Kathy

Andy

5/29/2014 01:32:33

On the move early today I see, wishing you the best in the challenge you have set for yourself today.

5/29/2014 04:31:21

I miss you!!!! But you are doing great and you are so awesome. Stay strong Pal!

CBG

5/29/2014 06:53:02

Ryan, I am SO very,very proud of you!!!! I cannot believe you've hit the 1/2 way mark already- and still going strong!
My Book Club tomorrow night is being held in your honor, complete with a menu and slide show taken from your blog :)
My love,admiration,and support are with you with EVERY step you take.... I love you! Mom

Steven Brown

5/29/2014 11:45:32

Way to go from down here in Texas! We're rooting for you!

Grace McKee

5/30/2014 02:28:04

What shock to read your blog today!!!! 60 milesin 20plus hours!!!!!!!! You must be a very tired and achy young man!! What a thoughtful way to celebrate our anniversary!! Many, many thanks!!

We love you, Grammy

Kassie LaPointe

5/30/2014 07:31:46

HOLY COW! Look at you go, Ryan! I've loved following your adventure via Instagram, just now starting to read your blog too - I am blown away! You're doing a really inspiring thing, you even have me thinking about future adventures. I'm considering doing the PCT someday, so I would love to chat with you a bit when you get back. Keep up the awesome work!!

Poet's Corner Book Club

5/30/2014 14:53:20

Hi Ryan!
As we sit at your home in front of your fire looking at all of your AT books, maps and blog, we are so impressed by this amazing journey you have taken on! Your adventure has inspired our book club to read Bryson's A Walk in the Woods - tho we've all thoroughly enjoyed YOUR blog even more than Bryson's book!! We look forward to the continuous entertainment that your blog provides us with! Be safe and good luck! xoxoxox Judy, Dyan, Lindsay, Courtney, and Chanda

CBG

5/30/2014 16:39:25

My dearest son.... the gift you have given your grandparents, and yourself, is also one that impacts on your parents, as well as all those who love you so very much. The fact that you would even attempt such an amazing feat leaves me breathless ( as does the idea of 60 years of marriage!!! But if you can do it, so can we !!!) .
Amazing s such a small word for such an incredible accomplishment, Ryan..... I am totally in awe of the depth of your love, consideration, attunedness ( does such a word even exist??), and dedication- to your family, yourself, and your goals and convictions. YOU are truly my hero and inspiration! And you will always be my favorite son :) xoxoxo

David

5/30/2014 17:08:14

Ryan ~

You're an officer and gentleman, my man.

When I grow up, I hope to be just like you....

I'm thoroughly impressed.

And I love you. Well done, Sir.

David

Matt & Crissy Pearlstein

5/31/2014 14:18:13

Ryan,
As Matt and I sat down to dinner tonight with our kids, he read your blog to us as he has done many nights since you started your journey. Tonight though unlike the others your blog brought me back home to my life with my grandparents who although both gone now, had celebrated a total of 64 married years together. I too admired their love and dedication and what it brought to me and my life. I miss them terribly since the passed and I thank you for sharing your grandparents with us. The gift you gave in honor of your grandparents' anniversary is heartfelt and truly beautiful. It is wonderful to see how much you care for them. Congratulations on seeing your gift for them through and on your journey thus far. We are thankful you are safe and doing well. Please wish your grandparents a Happy 60th Wedding Anniversary from the Pearlstein family. You have our continued support through the rest of your journey and we know you will accomplish that as well. Matt & Crissy

Ken

6/1/2014 01:37:24

Ryan,
I enjoy reading your post, I receive the blog by e-mail (don't know if that shows on the count as you had said the numbers had dropped) The one question I have is how you are counting your miles hiked, are you going by trial maps or GPS? Would be interested in knowing how the maps stack up to GPS. Best wishes to you on the 2nd half of your hike!

dan

6/1/2014 14:12:25

Ken,

His Mom and I see his hourly GPS pings on a larger screen than this website's embedded map shows. The GPS is not always picked up by the satellites through the canopy and there have been readings shown well off the trail.

He's using loose paper sheets from David 'Awol' Miller's The A.T. Guide, and we're following along with the bound book here at home. The book shows overall North Bound mileage at springs, road crossings, huts, unusual trail sections, Gaps, peaks, and ~40 miles of trail profile superimposed across the mileage notations. Mileage is to the 10th.

Town highlight pages include street maps with restaurant descriptions & prices, outfitters, laundry, retail stores, motels, and businesses or Post Offices who accept and hold Thru-Hiker care packages.

His iPhone has the GPS maps but I know the paper pages from 'AWOL's' book have excellent and accurate information. Ryan will have to answer how much he's relying on the iPhone and its GPS maps.

Any comments Ryan?
Dad

Ken

6/9/2014 11:06:00

Ryan's Dad

Thanks for the info, looking forward to seeing some of the pictures he has taken with the SLR camera

dbee

6/1/2014 11:17:38

Hi. It's Pneumo's mom. Thank you for chronicling your trek so thoroughly. It gives those of us who have hikers on the trail a great sense of what they are experiencing. Congrats on doing the 60! It's an amazing accomplishment. Trek safely.

Mike W

6/3/2014 10:54:15

Ryan your blog is incredible I just spent over an hour reading! Can't wait to hopefully meet up with you once you get into New England, keep it up!

grace mckee

6/4/2014 07:26:50

Hi Ryan!!
When do you think you will reach Dutchess County?? We will be back here next Saturday.
So happy you had nice visit with R & R. Guess they fed you very well!
We love you, Ryan, and are looking forward to meeting you very shortly!

April Hamilton

6/4/2014 15:09:14

Hi Ryan, I have enjoyed your blog and photos so much! Continue in good health, safety and joy! (Clays mom) : )

dan

6/5/2014 12:55:10

The PA rocks are good training for NH!

M. Tenney

6/5/2014 14:45:57

Hello Brian I feel as if I know you, just by reading your blog, besides this is the first blog I have ever read and Im enjoying every word. I have found myself reading well past my bed time! Thank you for sharing, I can honestly your Dad speaks often of you and is a very proud papa :) Good Luck and God Bless ! May you continue to have a safe journey minus slippery rocks, rain, falling trees, bears, snakes and aching feet!

M. Tenney

6/6/2014 00:44:30

Sorry for Brian , Ryan auto correct from my phone can be annoying.

Ryan McKee

6/9/2014 12:24:45

Ken sorry for the delay in response- mileage is usually taken from the 2014 print book then compared to GPS data. 'Day mileage' is comprised of all walking... Including to off-trail shelters, into towns, etc. while 'total AT mileage' refers only to the total mileage walked closer to Katahdin.

grasshopper the ridgerunner link

6/10/2014 06:11:48

Great meeting you this morning at Mashipacong Shelter. Happy Trails, Texaco!

Early Bird

6/17/2014 07:59:02

Hi Texaco,
I feel like it's about time I chimed in with a hello. I hiked with your dad before and he, remembering, I had thru-hiked in the past, shared your site with me. Here I've been following along since the start in what has felt like a sneaky, you-don't-even-know-it sort of way. I've enjoyed every day of your trip. My family and I will be backpacking south on the AT/LT this week. The following weekend we'll be on the AT in NH. At first I thought we might run into you, but maybe not. Anyway, best of luck and continued happy days out there.
Millie (Early Bird, AT'05)

Chris

6/21/2014 02:38:03

Ryan, your hike is like life, enjoy the journey because getting to the end was never your goal. The hills may seem high and your restlessness to get up and at 'em, overwhelming, but please understand that that at this junction in your young life, time should be a reference you are only vaguely familiar with. Your recent revelation about stopping to smell the roses, reminded me of an uptight friend in the early 70's after just smoking pot for the first time saying "ooh, the ground!". Time becomes exponentially faster the older you are, enjoy this moment as it will quickly drift with the wind. There are a lucky few of us that were fortunate to find your blog and we are grateful to enjoy your moments with you. Happy trails.

Joe and Kathy

6/24/2014 05:44:45

Ryan,
Food seems like a more frequent subject lately. What is you most favorite? Most disliked? Lots of miles and days probably has altered your taste and liking over time, but what are the go to's?
Really enjoying the blog.

Chamomile/O.J./Unibear/Figure

6/30/2014 14:46:04

Hi Texaco, We were the little "family" (only two of us are related) that slept next to you guys in Greenwall shelter. We are all reading your blog (You are an amazing writer) and wishing Legs, Naila, Santa, Dorothy, Rocket Girl and you luck. You already seem like a real family. Congratulations in advance for making it to Katahdin. (You are so close!!!!)

Raco

7/2/2014 12:46:41

Wats up Ryan, checking up on u, ur one crazy dude for doing this, much respect to u bro, hope all goes good, get home safe..

Kevin

7/12/2014 08:52:45

I just came across your website and trail blog today. Best of luck on your continued journey. You are a fantastic writer and I will be backtracking to the start to catch up on past posts!

CBG

7/14/2014 10:54:54

Here I sit, listening to the gentle rain falling, SaltyCat on my lap- and really & truly missing Naila!!!! There's no one under the dining room table for me to snuggle with :( Our sweet,gentle houseguest moved on to her next vacation home last night. We are grateful (ok, so maybe PepperCat doesn't feel this way, but SaltyCat really LIKED Naila!) for having the opportunity to have this beautiful animal in our home!!!! She will be missed for some time to come, and is welcome back ANYTIME!

Hydro

7/15/2014 09:25:24

Great seeing you folks at Grafton Notch today. Good luck. Let me know when you leave Rangley. Maybe I'll see you on the north side of Sugarloaf.

Grampy

7/15/2014 10:03:41

Want to assure you we are reading every word and loving your adventures. Discovering your family of friends along the way is just lovely. Wishing good luck and strength in the final push. Grampy.

Terre Hooks

7/18/2014 09:24:29

Wow. I have failed to read the blog for about 3 weeks. I used to read everyday, sometimes re-reading stuff.

You are almost done. Congrats.

Can I cater the wedding? You've never had BBQ as good. ;)

Rob V

7/18/2014 09:38:33

For anyone wondering, I ran into Texaco and friend today on Crocker Mountain in Maine. All seems well... he asked me to post to let everyone that interest access is scarce up here but he's getting close.

Ken Whitaker

7/24/2014 08:50:40

Hi Ryan,

wanted to wish you best of luck on your finish thru the 100 mile wilderness and let you know I am looking forward to reading the rest of your post. will be watching your progress on the GPS!

Ken

Ken Whitaker

7/24/2014 08:50:49

Ken Whitaker

7/24/2014 08:51:03

Denise

7/25/2014 09:29:51

OMG just checked your progress ( well I check it a lot !! ) YOU are almost there !! My intention was to come leave some trail magic for you but I wasn't even out of school and you passed our way ...enjoy your day to the top !! Bagel World on me when you get to 01867 !!

Beth DeLucenay

7/26/2014 08:16:35

Ryan- wow! I am a neighbor and family friend of Santa's and have been mesmerized by your posts. The photos and descriptions have given me a first hand feel for what you all have accomplished. Thanks for sharing and Congratulations!!!!

Ken

7/26/2014 12:06:38

Congratulations on reaching Katahdin and completing the Trail!

Andy

7/26/2014 15:59:49

Congratulations!!!!!

Matty & Crissy

7/26/2014 16:37:15

Congrats!!!!!!!! Woohooooooo! Way to go!!!!

Your Secretest Uncle Admirer

7/26/2014 17:48:44

Dearest Ryan ~

Your California Fan Club is toasting you even as we speak! As when you were 12 - you're still a rock star!

We're hoping - rather stridently - that you'll continue this blog for the next series of your life's adventures, too.

Please don't leave us all hanging just because the trek comes to a close. Please take us along to your life's upcoming fascinations.

Muy importante - for your reading audiance.

Love you, Bud - strong work, and OMG - what wonders you've accomplished. And as mummy would say. - oh, the places you'll see...!

Too FREAKin' cool........!

Your Secretest Uncle Admirer

7/26/2014 17:52:29

Your Secretest Uncle Admirer

7/26/2014 17:52:51

Martha "lead dog"thomas

7/28/2014 09:10:52

Way to go Texaco!!! We the VA Gang have been following since we met at Brinks Shelter in NJ. Glad you completed your mission in such speedy time.

Joe and Kathy

8/5/2014 07:42:22

Ryan - Very impressive accomplishment! We really enjoyed following along with you. Your writing was terrific and even more impressive, was consistent the whole way. One doesn't often find that blogs both start and then finish so strongly. Congrats on the great adventure!

Doug "Poppa Doc" Hankes

8/7/2014 09:14:29

Congrats, Texaco! Keegan (Not Chicago) and I (Poppa Doc) are glad we got to be part of your (and ours too) trail experience. Seems like yesterday that we were struggling up Jacob's Ladder! Take care.

BATPEEL

8/18/2014 13:43:56

I enjoyed reading your safari very much---i have section hike New York and Conn. It's nice to get out of the city for a weekend hike. 20 bucks from Grand Central can't beat that.

Martha "Lead Dog" Thomas

9/2/2014 09:29:42

I keep checking back in with you Texaco. Loved finally seeing all your photos and will continue to follow up for those captions.

Martha "Lead Dog" Thomas

9/2/2014 09:29:49

I keep checking back in with you Texaco. Loved finally seeing all your photos and will continue to follow up for those captions.

Stef link

1/1/2015 13:03:48

I am just now reading through this fantastic documentation of your thru hike - and am amazed and impressed. Your photo section alone is fantastic - though I do also appreciate your gear and financial info provided. I have been kicking around the idea of "maybe" doing a thru hike one of these days… but until that time comes, I loved experiencing yours. Thank you!

Joe

6/10/2015 00:37:47

Texaco - really enjoyed reading through your adventures. So much so that when i spotted some bar stools made from a Texaco sign I immediately thought of this blog!
Hope your next adventures are going well and thinking of following in your footsteps in the new year...

Chrissie DiNardo link

10/26/2016 12:36:11

Read your blog in an effort to understand what thru hiking is like. Literally glued to it! Great writing and lots of good laughs.
(Funny as I know you from in town playing tunes for Meadowbrook years back.) Keep adventuring and blogging. Wanderlust is great!

Snailman

1/5/2017 01:30:51

Hey Texaco!

Just encountered your website by incident on Google. I don't know if you remember me, but we met in the Smokies, I believe it was. I tagged along with you and Crusoe for som night hiking back in April of '14, when we were both thru-hiking. Unfortunately I never finished, but I remember reading your notes in the trail journals all the way from when we split up in NC till NY - you we're like Speedy Gonzales, hiking so damn fast ;) Just wanted to say hi and tell you what a cool website this is!

Best of regards,
Snailman

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