Just recieved an e-mail from Faithfuls' Dad. He has set up a Blogsite for David. You can find his blog at the following...
faithfulpilgrim.blogspot.com
Please check it out! Let's keep him in prayer as he continues!
God Bless!
Stickman
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Off trail...but the ministry continues!
Hey everybody! I would like to start out this message by posting the e-mail that I had sent out to Faithfuls' folks, Dan and Lillian, on 9/8/2007. For some reason, Dan has not recieved it, even after I sent it out four times...ah, the wonder of computers! Anyway, I will share it with you, so we can all be on the same page as of today!
"Good morning folks!
Just wanted you to know that I am off the trail again. I had made it as far as Graymoor, the monastery. After some considerable time in prayer, I decided that it must be the right time for me to leave the trail, and end the hiking part of this ministry. Everything worked out rather quickly as far as getting home was concerned, and I was back at home within a day. I was able to make quick connections with a couple of busses and a train! I rested up yesterday, and went to see my former employer. I will be back at work on Monday, at the lumber yard.
Although I will not be back on trail, the ministry is continuing. We have many contacts to follow up on, and also have more sticks that we will be mailing out to folks that were met on the trail. I am also going to attempt to meet some of the NOBO's that I missed, possibly up at Caratunk, or Stratton.
Although I certainly will miss being on trail, I am excited about all the other witnessing possibilities before me! We are also going to work on a presentation to be used at Church, and on this site!
We are very excited for David, that he is remaining FAITHFUL. It is awesome that he continues his hike, and professes his Christianity on the trail! We are so pleased that he is seeing opportunities to witness, and is being bold in grasping those opportunities. We will continue to pray for him daily, for his protection on the trail, and for the Holy Spirits' guidance, as he completes his hike. We also continue to keep you both in prayer, for your health and peace of mind. We realize how difficult it must be to have David out there hiking alone, but we also see that God has provided, in His time, all that is necessary. We are thankful for your encouragement and trust in the Lord!
Please continue to pray for us, and the ScriptureStick ministry! And please keep us updated on David's hike, we will post to our site as best we can. As a possible option, you may consider setting up a site for him on "Trailjournals.com", or "blogspot.com". That would allow you a lot of flexibility in updating his hike, and you could add pictures as he goes along. We would also be able to provide a link from our site.
Well, back to the "real world" of mowing the lawn! I need to go get at it before it rains...Will talk to you later!
In Christ,
Kelly "Stickman" Hibbard "
*****************************************************
Wow! I'm off trail! It even surprises ME when I read that! I would like to apologize to everyone out there for not getting the site updated with a tad more expedience... I know that all of my excuses would be inadequate! I would like to say, though, that Cari and I are so very thankful for your continued prayer and support. You folks have been awesome! The hiking ministry was very successful, albeit the hiking part of it was short of completion by several hundred miles. (I completed 800 miles of the trails' 2,174 mile length!). After coming off trail in Bennington, VT. for three weeks, I returned to my SOBO journey with high hopes that I would still be meeting some NOBOs. That was not to be...I met a couple of dozen, most of whom were in a BIG hurry to get to Maine. By the time I reached Kent, CT., the last of the NOBO "strays" had passed me. But, God is good! I began having great conversations with day and section hikers, several college orientation groups, (especially prevalent were the Freshman from Yale!), and various shopkeepers, grocery clerks, postal workers, and just plain folks that I would get to meet in the little towns. I was having fewer opportunities to meet hikers, but the meetings were more substantial!...Then, the weekend was over, all the hikers were gone, and I was only going to see people when I was in town, or, if I by chance would meet a day hiker on a weekend...So, after a couple of weeks back on trail, I found myself at Greymoor Friary, just outside of Peekskill, NY, alone, at the ballfield shelter that the good Friars so graciously allow us to use. It was, indeed, a time for reflection and prayer. The outcome, of course, was that I must stop walking. Part of my hiking ministry, the SOBOs, were ahead of me...the other part, the NOBOs, whom I mostly had not met, were behind me, headed for Maine! It seemed reasonable that God would want me to meet them in Maine, or to at least meet as many as possible. So, I find myself at home in Maine. My personal desire to hike the Appalachian Trail will always be there...and the trail is not going anywhere, either. I am confident that if the Lord wants me back out there again, that's where I will be. For now, I will do my best to gently witness to all the folks that are crossing my path here. I have returned to my job at the lumber yard, building loads and driving trucks. (Thanks goes out to my employer, Val). On my days off, I will attempt to meet with NOBOs at various places on the trail, perhaps Rangely, Stratton, Caratunk, or the like. Evenings have been very busy making up more ScriptureSticks, with my wife, Cari. (I am ever so much more thankful for ALL the work that she got done while I was on trail, since I am now having the opportunity to fill my hours helping!). We are sending out sticks, continually! Our daughter, Elizabeth, just left for a mini-vacation to North Carolina, to see old friends. We sent several sticks along with her, and then mailed out another that was "RUSH"! We quickly had made up a stick with the scripture written in Swahili, as there is a missionary being commisioned this Sunday, at Garner First Baptist, (our "Home church" while we were in NC.), who will be serving in Africa. We have others to complete, and mail out, too! If you have been promised a stick, please be patient...it takes two to three hours to complete a stick, and we have many to send out! We are also trying to get ready for the North New Portland Fair, which is this weekend! We are trying to get a few more sticks made up for the fair, and we will also be doing a couple of demonstrations to show how we make the sticks! That means I will have to go out in the woods tomorrow to get a few fresh poplar saplings to be used to show the peeling process...(I have tomorrow off at work)...
...Well, enough about me and Cari...Suffice it to say that the ministry is alive and well, and that we need your prayer and support as much now as we ever did! THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS!
...Now, on to David...FAITHFUL, that is...You can keep up with his travels for now by contacting his folks at the following E-mail Address...
DBARNES@MIDMAINE.com
His dad, Dan, says that if you want to be included in recieving his updates, just let him know via e-mail, and he will put you on a mailing list. Faithful is still trekking along the trail, and is now in Pennsylvania! He is continuing to be a witness for the Lord, and is reaching out at every opportunity. While I was on trail, I would read his entrys in the shelter journals. Faithful was quite frequently praising the Lord, and letting everyone know that he has been able to make it each day, because of how God has provided! I also spoke to folks he had talked with. One lady said, "oh yeah!, nice kid! real religious, huh!?" Yes. David, I pray that you will always remain "FAITHFUL" to the Lord! Keep witnessing! And, please, everybody...PLEASE keep this young man in your prayers!
Time to work on sticks! Love to you all, and GOD BLESS!!!
Kelly "Stickman" Hibbard
"Good morning folks!
Just wanted you to know that I am off the trail again. I had made it as far as Graymoor, the monastery. After some considerable time in prayer, I decided that it must be the right time for me to leave the trail, and end the hiking part of this ministry. Everything worked out rather quickly as far as getting home was concerned, and I was back at home within a day. I was able to make quick connections with a couple of busses and a train! I rested up yesterday, and went to see my former employer. I will be back at work on Monday, at the lumber yard.
Although I will not be back on trail, the ministry is continuing. We have many contacts to follow up on, and also have more sticks that we will be mailing out to folks that were met on the trail. I am also going to attempt to meet some of the NOBO's that I missed, possibly up at Caratunk, or Stratton.
Although I certainly will miss being on trail, I am excited about all the other witnessing possibilities before me! We are also going to work on a presentation to be used at Church, and on this site!
We are very excited for David, that he is remaining FAITHFUL. It is awesome that he continues his hike, and professes his Christianity on the trail! We are so pleased that he is seeing opportunities to witness, and is being bold in grasping those opportunities. We will continue to pray for him daily, for his protection on the trail, and for the Holy Spirits' guidance, as he completes his hike. We also continue to keep you both in prayer, for your health and peace of mind. We realize how difficult it must be to have David out there hiking alone, but we also see that God has provided, in His time, all that is necessary. We are thankful for your encouragement and trust in the Lord!
Please continue to pray for us, and the ScriptureStick ministry! And please keep us updated on David's hike, we will post to our site as best we can. As a possible option, you may consider setting up a site for him on "Trailjournals.com", or "blogspot.com". That would allow you a lot of flexibility in updating his hike, and you could add pictures as he goes along. We would also be able to provide a link from our site.
Well, back to the "real world" of mowing the lawn! I need to go get at it before it rains...Will talk to you later!
In Christ,
Kelly "Stickman" Hibbard "
*****************************************************
Wow! I'm off trail! It even surprises ME when I read that! I would like to apologize to everyone out there for not getting the site updated with a tad more expedience... I know that all of my excuses would be inadequate! I would like to say, though, that Cari and I are so very thankful for your continued prayer and support. You folks have been awesome! The hiking ministry was very successful, albeit the hiking part of it was short of completion by several hundred miles. (I completed 800 miles of the trails' 2,174 mile length!). After coming off trail in Bennington, VT. for three weeks, I returned to my SOBO journey with high hopes that I would still be meeting some NOBOs. That was not to be...I met a couple of dozen, most of whom were in a BIG hurry to get to Maine. By the time I reached Kent, CT., the last of the NOBO "strays" had passed me. But, God is good! I began having great conversations with day and section hikers, several college orientation groups, (especially prevalent were the Freshman from Yale!), and various shopkeepers, grocery clerks, postal workers, and just plain folks that I would get to meet in the little towns. I was having fewer opportunities to meet hikers, but the meetings were more substantial!...Then, the weekend was over, all the hikers were gone, and I was only going to see people when I was in town, or, if I by chance would meet a day hiker on a weekend...So, after a couple of weeks back on trail, I found myself at Greymoor Friary, just outside of Peekskill, NY, alone, at the ballfield shelter that the good Friars so graciously allow us to use. It was, indeed, a time for reflection and prayer. The outcome, of course, was that I must stop walking. Part of my hiking ministry, the SOBOs, were ahead of me...the other part, the NOBOs, whom I mostly had not met, were behind me, headed for Maine! It seemed reasonable that God would want me to meet them in Maine, or to at least meet as many as possible. So, I find myself at home in Maine. My personal desire to hike the Appalachian Trail will always be there...and the trail is not going anywhere, either. I am confident that if the Lord wants me back out there again, that's where I will be. For now, I will do my best to gently witness to all the folks that are crossing my path here. I have returned to my job at the lumber yard, building loads and driving trucks. (Thanks goes out to my employer, Val). On my days off, I will attempt to meet with NOBOs at various places on the trail, perhaps Rangely, Stratton, Caratunk, or the like. Evenings have been very busy making up more ScriptureSticks, with my wife, Cari. (I am ever so much more thankful for ALL the work that she got done while I was on trail, since I am now having the opportunity to fill my hours helping!). We are sending out sticks, continually! Our daughter, Elizabeth, just left for a mini-vacation to North Carolina, to see old friends. We sent several sticks along with her, and then mailed out another that was "RUSH"! We quickly had made up a stick with the scripture written in Swahili, as there is a missionary being commisioned this Sunday, at Garner First Baptist, (our "Home church" while we were in NC.), who will be serving in Africa. We have others to complete, and mail out, too! If you have been promised a stick, please be patient...it takes two to three hours to complete a stick, and we have many to send out! We are also trying to get ready for the North New Portland Fair, which is this weekend! We are trying to get a few more sticks made up for the fair, and we will also be doing a couple of demonstrations to show how we make the sticks! That means I will have to go out in the woods tomorrow to get a few fresh poplar saplings to be used to show the peeling process...(I have tomorrow off at work)...
...Well, enough about me and Cari...Suffice it to say that the ministry is alive and well, and that we need your prayer and support as much now as we ever did! THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS!
...Now, on to David...FAITHFUL, that is...You can keep up with his travels for now by contacting his folks at the following E-mail Address...
DBARNES@MIDMAINE.com
His dad, Dan, says that if you want to be included in recieving his updates, just let him know via e-mail, and he will put you on a mailing list. Faithful is still trekking along the trail, and is now in Pennsylvania! He is continuing to be a witness for the Lord, and is reaching out at every opportunity. While I was on trail, I would read his entrys in the shelter journals. Faithful was quite frequently praising the Lord, and letting everyone know that he has been able to make it each day, because of how God has provided! I also spoke to folks he had talked with. One lady said, "oh yeah!, nice kid! real religious, huh!?" Yes. David, I pray that you will always remain "FAITHFUL" to the Lord! Keep witnessing! And, please, everybody...PLEASE keep this young man in your prayers!
Time to work on sticks! Love to you all, and GOD BLESS!!!
Kelly "Stickman" Hibbard
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Updating the weekend hike
I was reminded in an e-mail this morning that I had not updated the blog in several days! So here goes! 8/31 Kel was hiking along the Housatonic River. Very rough terrain, a lot of up and down, rocks and ledges. He stayed at the lean-to past Kent, Conn that night. 8/31 Dave was at Vernon N.J, and starting from there the next day. His parents have ordered him a new pair of hiking boots (Kel just had some sent to his next drop, too!). He has had good luck with them until now...a rip has begun in them above the ankle. 9/1 Kel was at Bulls Bridge when he called, and heading toward 10 mile river lean-to. He will soon be crossing into New York! 9/2 Kel met two hikers, Bob and Joanne (they have skied Sugarloaf!), and is hiking with a fellow from NY named Tom. Today, he crossed the mark where he has hiked 1/3 of the trail!! He saw the Dover Oak tree, the largerst Oak tree on the AT, more than 20 feet in diameter, and is est to be 300 yrs old! He also saw the only train station on the AT, where Tom will catch the train back to NY city tomorrow.9/3 Tom hiked back to the train station, Kel went about 5 miles, saw 5 deer, and crossed the old route 55! It was a beautiful day. That night slept at the RPH shelter. He has enjoyed reading from the shelter logs, including entries by Dave and Murphy. Soon he will be entering his next state, #7, New Jersey. 9/4 Dave reached Deleware Gap on this day. He hopes to meet up with another hiker that he had stayed with a while ago. He is taking a zero day as he waits. His boots are not there yet...hopefully Thursday!
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/31/07...Friday... Had quite a light show last night, with lots of lightning, but fortunately, there was no rain to accompany it! I probably stayed awake a bit too long, but it was so beautiful that I couldn't help but watch it. I got up quite late this morning, partly caused by a late night, and partly because the day started out very gloomy, with no sun to wake me up. I still managed to get off to a fair start, though, and was optimistic that I might still make respectable mileage today. As I was coming up over a hill this morning, I saw a fox trotting towards me, on the trail. I stopped and watched him come towards me, and I finally attempted to take his picture. As I picked up the camera, he caught my motion, and turned to run... I don't know yet what, if any kind of picture I got of him, as the day was still fairly dark.
I didn't feel particularly well all day... I think it may be due to the high heat and humidity of the last few days. Today was cooler, but I was "out of sorts". I am also having some problems with my left heel, might possibly have a bone spur. I plodded along slowly, and indulged in a bit of ibuprofen for the inflammation. I eventually stopped on top of a high ridge for lunch, then succumbed to a two-hour nap. After my break, I still wasn't feeling well, but the heel did seem a bit better for the rest. I made a quick stop in Kent, CT., and purchased some Gatorade. The electrolytes seemed to help, and I ventured to hike a bit further...
It is much cooler now, and I have made it to Mt. Algo Lean-to for the night. Having completed only 13.9 miles, I'll need to put in a better effort tomorrow, especially if I plan on catching up to any of the SOBO's ahead of me. Although I was a little short on mileage today, I will continue to be happy about the times I got to meet other folks out here. Please pray that I will be able to make a difference in their lives, for the Lord! Thanks! Until tomorrow, God Bless!
Stickman
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...9/1/07...Saturday... Less miles, but more smiles!.. I only squeaked out 8.4 miles today, for many, many reasons. First, there was "Seeker"... I shared the shelter with him last night, and I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation. This morning, we continued to talk, and we talked about so many things... neither of us felt hurried to begin hiking. We talked somewhat about religion, and he voiced his feeling that people should not push their beliefs onto others. I agreed fully. I did share my views, and faith with him, and told him about the ScriptureStick ministry that Cari and I were working on. He was fairly comfortable with our conversation, and noted that I had not pushed my views on him... and had not even said anything "religious" until he had brought it up. I had gained a degree of his respect. I told him that I would gladly mail a hiking stick to him, and that if he would let me pick the scripture, I would choose, "Seek me and you will find me, when you seek me with all of your heart.". SEEKER took a shine to that, and asked me to repeat it, so he could write it down! He will get a stick in the mail!
SEEKER eventually had to leave, to meet up with his folks, but as he left, two other hikers came into camp, looking for a lost cellphone. I helped them look around camp, along the stream, and on trail, but it was to no avail. I would have called his phone, but my batteries had gone dead... They wanted to know why I held off hiking to help them, so I got to tell them about my faith, and the missions trip. They were surprised and thankful, and even though we did not find the phone, they were appreciative. Another seed was planted! I had to smile, as I was wondering if I would actually do any hiking today. It seemed as if I needed to "stay put".
I did return to the trail at a little after 11:30 AM, with a BIG smile in my heart! On trail, I only spoke with three other hikers. It seemed a little strange not to see lots of hikers, and even stranger not to have FAITHFUL to talk with when I made my rest stops. I pray that he is still doing well! I came back off trail at Bull's Bridge, and had a bit to eat at a little store. I ate and chatted while they let me charge my phone. A mere 3 Hrs. later, my cellphone and I fully charged, I continued on until I arrived at Ten Mile River Lean-to, just before dark.
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/31/07...Friday... Had quite a light show last night, with lots of lightning, but fortunately, there was no rain to accompany it! I probably stayed awake a bit too long, but it was so beautiful that I couldn't help but watch it. I got up quite late this morning, partly caused by a late night, and partly because the day started out very gloomy, with no sun to wake me up. I still managed to get off to a fair start, though, and was optimistic that I might still make respectable mileage today. As I was coming up over a hill this morning, I saw a fox trotting towards me, on the trail. I stopped and watched him come towards me, and I finally attempted to take his picture. As I picked up the camera, he caught my motion, and turned to run... I don't know yet what, if any kind of picture I got of him, as the day was still fairly dark.
I didn't feel particularly well all day... I think it may be due to the high heat and humidity of the last few days. Today was cooler, but I was "out of sorts". I am also having some problems with my left heel, might possibly have a bone spur. I plodded along slowly, and indulged in a bit of ibuprofen for the inflammation. I eventually stopped on top of a high ridge for lunch, then succumbed to a two-hour nap. After my break, I still wasn't feeling well, but the heel did seem a bit better for the rest. I made a quick stop in Kent, CT., and purchased some Gatorade. The electrolytes seemed to help, and I ventured to hike a bit further...
It is much cooler now, and I have made it to Mt. Algo Lean-to for the night. Having completed only 13.9 miles, I'll need to put in a better effort tomorrow, especially if I plan on catching up to any of the SOBO's ahead of me. Although I was a little short on mileage today, I will continue to be happy about the times I got to meet other folks out here. Please pray that I will be able to make a difference in their lives, for the Lord! Thanks! Until tomorrow, God Bless!
Stickman
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...9/1/07...Saturday... Less miles, but more smiles!.. I only squeaked out 8.4 miles today, for many, many reasons. First, there was "Seeker"... I shared the shelter with him last night, and I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation. This morning, we continued to talk, and we talked about so many things... neither of us felt hurried to begin hiking. We talked somewhat about religion, and he voiced his feeling that people should not push their beliefs onto others. I agreed fully. I did share my views, and faith with him, and told him about the ScriptureStick ministry that Cari and I were working on. He was fairly comfortable with our conversation, and noted that I had not pushed my views on him... and had not even said anything "religious" until he had brought it up. I had gained a degree of his respect. I told him that I would gladly mail a hiking stick to him, and that if he would let me pick the scripture, I would choose, "Seek me and you will find me, when you seek me with all of your heart.". SEEKER took a shine to that, and asked me to repeat it, so he could write it down! He will get a stick in the mail!
SEEKER eventually had to leave, to meet up with his folks, but as he left, two other hikers came into camp, looking for a lost cellphone. I helped them look around camp, along the stream, and on trail, but it was to no avail. I would have called his phone, but my batteries had gone dead... They wanted to know why I held off hiking to help them, so I got to tell them about my faith, and the missions trip. They were surprised and thankful, and even though we did not find the phone, they were appreciative. Another seed was planted! I had to smile, as I was wondering if I would actually do any hiking today. It seemed as if I needed to "stay put".
I did return to the trail at a little after 11:30 AM, with a BIG smile in my heart! On trail, I only spoke with three other hikers. It seemed a little strange not to see lots of hikers, and even stranger not to have FAITHFUL to talk with when I made my rest stops. I pray that he is still doing well! I came back off trail at Bull's Bridge, and had a bit to eat at a little store. I ate and chatted while they let me charge my phone. A mere 3 Hrs. later, my cellphone and I fully charged, I continued on until I arrived at Ten Mile River Lean-to, just before dark.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Bear!
This morning Kel was wakened by a bear sniffing and grunting around camp 10-15 feet from him...
...too close for me. He thought that it was pretty cool. Yikes! He thinks as he made his way back to the trail he pushed another one out ahead of him...or a deer. He is in Falls village conn today picking up a package or two at the post office and hopefully cleaning up a bit. He called from the top of a small mountain, just beautiful. It is very hot and humid right now which makes hiking a challange. He talked about his experiances in Great Barrington and how helpful the cobbler was at the Eagle Shoe and Boot Co there and his wonderful diner experiance at the neighborhood Diner meeting Tim and Pop and the other regulars. And, Nate and Tim's friend Tim that both gave Kel a ride to and from the trail. Thank-you sooo much. We heard from David's family last night and he is in the area of Greenwood Lake N.Y right now. His hike is going well. It sound as though he has met some helpful people on the trail with few mishaps. He warned Kelly about all the poison ivy coming up in N.Y and PA. Thanks Dave!. Looks like in a day or two Kel will be hitting his 6th state! New York.
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/29/07...Wednesday... I got a bit of a late start out of the Hemlocks, as we spent a lot of time talking. I had a very good hiking day, although it is still very hot and humid, and I am exhausted. I didn't see many hikers going NOBO, but got to talk to all I saw.
I have seen four groups from Yale, doing freshman orientation trips. I got to talk with many of them, also!
I ended my day after 17.5 miles of hiking, stopping at Limestone Spring Lean-to. I am here by myself, and it is a little lonely. I wish and pray that I would see more hikers.
Oh, yeah... add 1/2 mile to that daily mileage! It is a VERY difficult 1/2 mile downhill hike from the Trail to the shelter. I don't really look forward to the climb-out hike in the morning! But, on the sunny side of things, I DID get to walk some very beautiful ridges today. It kind of reminded me of some of the rock-walking in the movie, "Last of the Mohicans".
I'm a little sad to see the condition of this shelter, and the grounds around it. It is a VERY beautiful area, but has felt the impact of those who can't appreciate it... It is dirty and littered, and some clever folks chose to burn the "Fires Prohibited" signs...
I think, as I settle down to sleep, that I will dwell on the beauty I DID see, and on the possibilities that come with the dawn...
God Bless,
Stickman
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/30/07...Thursday... Lions and Tigers and BEARS! OH, MY! Yes, BEARS!... Or one, anyway...
I had the pleasure of being woken up at Limestone Springs Lean-to this morning, at about 5AM. I heard a noise, and thought that it must be a porcupine, trying to get at my hiking poles, and eat them. They are attracted to the salt that is deposited on the handles by sweating hikers. I switched on my headlamp, and swung around to try to catch the critter in the act. To my surprise, it was a bear walking by the Lean-to, about 15 feet from me! I grabbed for my camera, that was stored behind me, but he had walked on, giving a couple of grunts, before I could get a picture. I was a little scared, but also disappointed, as I wanted a picture of a bear so badly. Well, maybe next time, and hopefully, not that close!
Later in the day, I did get a good set of pictures of a rattlesnake, that was not more than 2 feet off the trail. He was 3 1/2 to 4 feet long, and very fat. I know that I couldn't have gotten my hand to close around him. Can you find his head and his rattle?
I had to go into Falls Village, CT., for my mail drop, then ate at a little restaurant before going back to the trail. I didn't see a lot of folks today, and only two NOBOs. I also didn't cover many miles today,.
what with the town stop, heat, humidity, and steep terrain. Only 15.7 miles, then arrived at Caesar Brook Campsite for the night. No shelter here, and it is getting late, so I am sleeping on the ground. No one else is here, it is not a real nice area, and there is heat lightning all around... kind of spooky and pretty at the same time.
I will sleep under one of the big pines, in a bed of pine needles. I should stay reasonably dry if it only sprinkles, and will have fair warning of a full rainstorm before it penetrates the canopy and soaks me.
Although my meetings were few today, I had great encounters with the folks that I did meet. I ask God to Bless them, and to Bless you, also.
Stickman
...too close for me. He thought that it was pretty cool. Yikes! He thinks as he made his way back to the trail he pushed another one out ahead of him...or a deer. He is in Falls village conn today picking up a package or two at the post office and hopefully cleaning up a bit. He called from the top of a small mountain, just beautiful. It is very hot and humid right now which makes hiking a challange. He talked about his experiances in Great Barrington and how helpful the cobbler was at the Eagle Shoe and Boot Co there and his wonderful diner experiance at the neighborhood Diner meeting Tim and Pop and the other regulars. And, Nate and Tim's friend Tim that both gave Kel a ride to and from the trail. Thank-you sooo much. We heard from David's family last night and he is in the area of Greenwood Lake N.Y right now. His hike is going well. It sound as though he has met some helpful people on the trail with few mishaps. He warned Kelly about all the poison ivy coming up in N.Y and PA. Thanks Dave!. Looks like in a day or two Kel will be hitting his 6th state! New York.
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/29/07...Wednesday... I got a bit of a late start out of the Hemlocks, as we spent a lot of time talking. I had a very good hiking day, although it is still very hot and humid, and I am exhausted. I didn't see many hikers going NOBO, but got to talk to all I saw.
I have seen four groups from Yale, doing freshman orientation trips. I got to talk with many of them, also! I ended my day after 17.5 miles of hiking, stopping at Limestone Spring Lean-to. I am here by myself, and it is a little lonely. I wish and pray that I would see more hikers.
Oh, yeah... add 1/2 mile to that daily mileage! It is a VERY difficult 1/2 mile downhill hike from the Trail to the shelter. I don't really look forward to the climb-out hike in the morning! But, on the sunny side of things, I DID get to walk some very beautiful ridges today. It kind of reminded me of some of the rock-walking in the movie, "Last of the Mohicans".
I'm a little sad to see the condition of this shelter, and the grounds around it. It is a VERY beautiful area, but has felt the impact of those who can't appreciate it... It is dirty and littered, and some clever folks chose to burn the "Fires Prohibited" signs...
I think, as I settle down to sleep, that I will dwell on the beauty I DID see, and on the possibilities that come with the dawn...
God Bless,
Stickman
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/30/07...Thursday... Lions and Tigers and BEARS! OH, MY! Yes, BEARS!... Or one, anyway...
I had the pleasure of being woken up at Limestone Springs Lean-to this morning, at about 5AM. I heard a noise, and thought that it must be a porcupine, trying to get at my hiking poles, and eat them. They are attracted to the salt that is deposited on the handles by sweating hikers. I switched on my headlamp, and swung around to try to catch the critter in the act. To my surprise, it was a bear walking by the Lean-to, about 15 feet from me! I grabbed for my camera, that was stored behind me, but he had walked on, giving a couple of grunts, before I could get a picture. I was a little scared, but also disappointed, as I wanted a picture of a bear so badly. Well, maybe next time, and hopefully, not that close!
Later in the day, I did get a good set of pictures of a rattlesnake, that was not more than 2 feet off the trail. He was 3 1/2 to 4 feet long, and very fat. I know that I couldn't have gotten my hand to close around him. Can you find his head and his rattle?
I had to go into Falls Village, CT., for my mail drop, then ate at a little restaurant before going back to the trail. I didn't see a lot of folks today, and only two NOBOs. I also didn't cover many miles today,.
what with the town stop, heat, humidity, and steep terrain. Only 15.7 miles, then arrived at Caesar Brook Campsite for the night. No shelter here, and it is getting late, so I am sleeping on the ground. No one else is here, it is not a real nice area, and there is heat lightning all around... kind of spooky and pretty at the same time.
I will sleep under one of the big pines, in a bed of pine needles. I should stay reasonably dry if it only sprinkles, and will have fair warning of a full rainstorm before it penetrates the canopy and soaks me. Although my meetings were few today, I had great encounters with the folks that I did meet. I ask God to Bless them, and to Bless you, also.
Stickman
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Blow Out, Great Barrington, Hemlocks Shelter!
Kel hiked almost 40 miles with a boot blow-out! He got into Great Barrington and found a cobbler to do a repair....what an adventure. LLBean is shipping a new pair to his first drop in NY so I hope his boots last until then! We spoke only briefly and he said that he would call tomorrow with some stories but it was late and he was in the shelter and didn't want to disturb anyone. He is having a great time...enjoying the scenery and the people, having a great hike. Still wishes he could lighten up his pack some more(it is running around 30-35 lbs). More tomorrow!
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/28/07...Tuesday... What an interesting day! I got to the road, eventually, and tried to hitch-hike into Great Barrington. As I sat there, I had the pleasure of sharing my water with another hiker, a fella named Joel. In return for my kindness, he offered up great conversation, then proceeded to
entertain me for a while with his guitar. He was, indeed, a fantastic guitarist! After blessing me with a private concert, Joel eventually decided to strike off into the woods, and I stood there.... for a very long time, trying to decide if I should continue to attempt a hitch, or to admit defeat, and start walking towards town. Indecisive, I leaned back on a big rock, and shortly after, a vehicle wheeled over to the side of the road to rescue me from making a definitive choice. He also saved me from a fairly long road-walk. The wheelman was Nate, a kind and likeable young man. He was so kind, depositing me in town, near several restaurants, and within 4 or 5 blocks of the cobbler! I trekked down to pay a visit to the cobbler, first thing, and was a little dismayed that he felt that the boots were "done for". OK, I'll admit it... I felt terrible! These were my faithful "Crestas"! They had been loyal to me for many, many miles! What he was suggesting, I couldn't accept... it was like putting down "Old Blue", or some other well-loved companion! I stared at my boots, then looked, pleadingly, into the eyes of the cobbler. 
He was a very busy man, and had a whole bunch of shoes and boots to work on. Footwear that he KNEW he could save. He appeared to be unwavering in his diagnosis. Suddenly, I heard his wife speak. "Isn't there anything you can do, couldn't you try?", she said to him. He glanced at her, then back to me, and said that he would try. He quickly turned back to his work. I smiled at the wife, and she returned the same, and offered to charge my cell phone while I went off to find something to eat. So, I killed some time by treating myself to a nice dinner at a local diner. I took my time, and eventually it was getting late enough that I was beginning to worry that I might get "stuck in town". Back to the cobbler I went, to find him still working on them. All went well, though, and he only charged me a small sum for the repairs. Happily, I was on my way! Outside, I met the young man who had waited on me at the diner.
His name was Tim, and he rented an apartment from the cobbler. We talked for a bit, and when I said I was trying to get back to the trail, Tim promptly flagged down a van
that was passing by. He said to the driver, "Tim, this is Stickman. He needs to get across town, so he can get back on trail. Can you get him there?". Sure thing! So, Tim, and Tim, and I, talked for a bit, then off we went. I was still looking at 8 more miles of hiking to get to the shelter, and Tim and Tim were saving me a couple of miles. All of a sudden, I saw Joel on the road! He had not had a very good day, and was exhausted! Tim pulled over, picked him up, and I got him rehydrated again. A decision had to be made as to how much more hiking was going to be done that day. Very little... Tim and Tim were very kind in bringing us further up the road, where we were able to pick up the trail very close to the shelter. (If anyone is keeping track on mileage... IF I am able to make it to Springer Mtn., I would STILL have to come back to do these 6 miles to be considered a real thru-hiker!). After a hike of about another mile, we arrived at the "Hemlocks" Lean-to.
A young lady, "Sweetness" was there, and we talked for a bit, had a nice meal, and then enjoyed the musical desserts of Joel, playing several tunes on his guitar. What a wonderful night!
I also was able to call my wife, Cari, tonight. It is always so nice to hear her voice! She told me that she has been in touch with L.L. Bean, and they have new boots on the way to me. They will be at Falls Village, CT., when I get there.
With that, I will close. Love to all, and God Bless!
Stickman
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/28/07...Tuesday... What an interesting day! I got to the road, eventually, and tried to hitch-hike into Great Barrington. As I sat there, I had the pleasure of sharing my water with another hiker, a fella named Joel. In return for my kindness, he offered up great conversation, then proceeded to
entertain me for a while with his guitar. He was, indeed, a fantastic guitarist! After blessing me with a private concert, Joel eventually decided to strike off into the woods, and I stood there.... for a very long time, trying to decide if I should continue to attempt a hitch, or to admit defeat, and start walking towards town. Indecisive, I leaned back on a big rock, and shortly after, a vehicle wheeled over to the side of the road to rescue me from making a definitive choice. He also saved me from a fairly long road-walk. The wheelman was Nate, a kind and likeable young man. He was so kind, depositing me in town, near several restaurants, and within 4 or 5 blocks of the cobbler! I trekked down to pay a visit to the cobbler, first thing, and was a little dismayed that he felt that the boots were "done for". OK, I'll admit it... I felt terrible! These were my faithful "Crestas"! They had been loyal to me for many, many miles! What he was suggesting, I couldn't accept... it was like putting down "Old Blue", or some other well-loved companion! I stared at my boots, then looked, pleadingly, into the eyes of the cobbler. 
He was a very busy man, and had a whole bunch of shoes and boots to work on. Footwear that he KNEW he could save. He appeared to be unwavering in his diagnosis. Suddenly, I heard his wife speak. "Isn't there anything you can do, couldn't you try?", she said to him. He glanced at her, then back to me, and said that he would try. He quickly turned back to his work. I smiled at the wife, and she returned the same, and offered to charge my cell phone while I went off to find something to eat. So, I killed some time by treating myself to a nice dinner at a local diner. I took my time, and eventually it was getting late enough that I was beginning to worry that I might get "stuck in town". Back to the cobbler I went, to find him still working on them. All went well, though, and he only charged me a small sum for the repairs. Happily, I was on my way! Outside, I met the young man who had waited on me at the diner.
His name was Tim, and he rented an apartment from the cobbler. We talked for a bit, and when I said I was trying to get back to the trail, Tim promptly flagged down a van
that was passing by. He said to the driver, "Tim, this is Stickman. He needs to get across town, so he can get back on trail. Can you get him there?". Sure thing! So, Tim, and Tim, and I, talked for a bit, then off we went. I was still looking at 8 more miles of hiking to get to the shelter, and Tim and Tim were saving me a couple of miles. All of a sudden, I saw Joel on the road! He had not had a very good day, and was exhausted! Tim pulled over, picked him up, and I got him rehydrated again. A decision had to be made as to how much more hiking was going to be done that day. Very little... Tim and Tim were very kind in bringing us further up the road, where we were able to pick up the trail very close to the shelter. (If anyone is keeping track on mileage... IF I am able to make it to Springer Mtn., I would STILL have to come back to do these 6 miles to be considered a real thru-hiker!). After a hike of about another mile, we arrived at the "Hemlocks" Lean-to.
A young lady, "Sweetness" was there, and we talked for a bit, had a nice meal, and then enjoyed the musical desserts of Joel, playing several tunes on his guitar. What a wonderful night!
I also was able to call my wife, Cari, tonight. It is always so nice to hear her voice! She told me that she has been in touch with L.L. Bean, and they have new boots on the way to me. They will be at Falls Village, CT., when I get there.
With that, I will close. Love to all, and God Bless!
Stickman
Monday, August 27, 2007
Upper Goose Pond Cabin
Kel called Sunday night from Upper Goose Pond Cabin. It was about a half hour hike off the trail. The cabin and facilities are owned by the national park service and has a caretaker,real bunks,spring water,opportunity to canoe,and a pancake breakfast! Kelly was enjoying great company and great views of the pond, and a dip, and was looking forward to a great night's sleep. The walking is going well, the swelling in his leg is normal and no redness. It was a less humid walk today, and he is in good spirits. He has hiked approx. 642 miles of the trail. About 1533 miles to go!
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/27/07...Monday... MMMMMM! Pancakes! Pete, the caretaker at the Upper Goose Pond Cabin didn't disappoint! We all had our fill, and there were actually leftovers... hard to believe! I think I ate a dozen or so, all by myself. Wow! The only thing missing was the blueberries... which was my fault. By tradition, incoming SOBO hikers stop to get blueberries for the pancakes before they hike to the Cabin... I'll remember next time!
After having a super breakfast and great conversation, I was finally ready to strike out for Tom Leonard Lean-to. Before I left, however, the conversation had turned to some hiker who had left his tent at Tom Leonard... Ooops! It happened to be Mike, one of the NOBO hikers at Upper Goose Pond Cabin. Since everyone was going North, and I was going South, I told him that I would look for it, and if I found it, ship it to him. Well, off I went, at 9:00 AM, getting into Tom Leonard Lean-to at 7:45 PM, just before dark. I put in a pretty good hike today, 21.1 miles... Unfortunately, after the first 8 miles, the sole of my right boot started to come apart.
Quite a difficult hike with the front of my boot flapping. Timing is everything, and I can be in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, tomorrow. They have a cobbler there, so if I can make it just a few more miles!... Also, Mike's tent is here, so I will take it with me and get it mailed out!
It's now 9:30 PM, the bugs are biting, so I think I will turn off my headlamp, get all the way inside my sleeping bag, and get some needed sleep. Good bye, for now, and God Bless...
Stickman
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/27/07...Monday... MMMMMM! Pancakes! Pete, the caretaker at the Upper Goose Pond Cabin didn't disappoint! We all had our fill, and there were actually leftovers... hard to believe! I think I ate a dozen or so, all by myself. Wow! The only thing missing was the blueberries... which was my fault. By tradition, incoming SOBO hikers stop to get blueberries for the pancakes before they hike to the Cabin... I'll remember next time!
After having a super breakfast and great conversation, I was finally ready to strike out for Tom Leonard Lean-to. Before I left, however, the conversation had turned to some hiker who had left his tent at Tom Leonard... Ooops! It happened to be Mike, one of the NOBO hikers at Upper Goose Pond Cabin. Since everyone was going North, and I was going South, I told him that I would look for it, and if I found it, ship it to him. Well, off I went, at 9:00 AM, getting into Tom Leonard Lean-to at 7:45 PM, just before dark. I put in a pretty good hike today, 21.1 miles... Unfortunately, after the first 8 miles, the sole of my right boot started to come apart.
Quite a difficult hike with the front of my boot flapping. Timing is everything, and I can be in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, tomorrow. They have a cobbler there, so if I can make it just a few more miles!... Also, Mike's tent is here, so I will take it with me and get it mailed out!It's now 9:30 PM, the bugs are biting, so I think I will turn off my headlamp, get all the way inside my sleeping bag, and get some needed sleep. Good bye, for now, and God Bless...
Stickman
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Mass!
Kel has hit his fourth state! He called yesterday morning to report that he made it to the post office in Cheshire, Mass before it even opened. He is getting his walking legs back and is so pleased to be back on trail. The incline out of Bennington was brutal. Mt Greylock had a magnificent view and was so worth the climb.Then, he had another incline that was tougher than the one out of Bennington. On his first night in a shelter, as he introduced himself as Stickman, he was asked if he had previously been hiking with Faithful! The hiker that had met Faithful a few days ago and had had a 15 minute conversation with Dave. She said he was doing well. We haven't heard where he is at this time, but will let you know when we know! Kel hoped to be in Dalton, Mass by evening which will mark 620 miles on the trail. Already he has met several south bound and north bound thru hikers. A few days and he will be in Connecticut
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/24/07...Friday... I went from Seth Warner Shelter up on over Mt. Greylock, then into Mark Noepel Shelter for the night. I hiked awhile with "Tea Leave", but he didn't go as far as me. I spent the night with two other hikers, one NOBO, one SOBO. I saw no other hikers all day. I got into the shelter at dusk, having travelled 16.5 miles. Please pray for these things, specifically... my leg continues to heal, my strength builds up, I start hiking more miles, I meet more hikers! Thanks! Good night for now, God Bless!
Stickman
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/25/07...Saturday... I was up a bit earlier, hiking the trail by 6:30 AM. Seems a little strange not having Faithful with me now, and I pray his hike is going well. I will watch for his entries in the shelter logs to check up on him... maybe I will start to catch up to him. I did 16.7 miles for the day, ending at almost 6:00 PM, at Kay Wood Lean-to. I know I will never catch anyone if I do so few miles, but I should build up soon. I was able to pick up my maildrop today, at the Post Office in Cheshire, when it opened up at 8:30 AM, then continued on, passing through Dalton, Massachusetts, to end up at the shelter.
I only met a few people today, but conversation was good with the ones I met. I am just about exhausted, having hiked in 90(plus) degree heat today, and swimming in extremely high humidity. I'm looking for a little cooler day tomorrow... temperature has dropped a bit so far tonight, so I will rest. Lights out! God Bless!
Stickman
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/26/07...Sunday... I left Kay Wood Lean-to at 7 AM, and ended the day at 4 PM at Upper Goose Pond CABIN... uhuh! CABIN! YAY! Depending on which data you go by, I either traversed 17.6 miles or 18.3 miles. I guess I will have to settle with 17.6 miles, in 9 hours. At any rate, my back is sore, I met only 6 hikers, and was only able to talk with 4 of them.
A highlight to the day was crossing over the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90), on the pedestrian bridge, for hikers! Then, a mile and a half later, to be at Upper Goose Pond Cabin. The place is wonderful, has bunks with matresses, good swimming, spring water, canoe, and pancake breakfast... all for NO FEE! They do, of course, accept donations, which almost all hikers are willing to give. Pete, who is this weeks caretaker, graciously shared his meal with me. He had cooked up a nice stew, complete with meat, potato, onions, and the like. It was delicious! Pete also said to expect a big breakfast of pancakes in the morning. Thanks so much, Pete, your the greatest.
After a nice swim, and helping bring supplies up to the Cabin from the dock, I sat and chatted with Pete and a couple of hikers that had come in. We sipped our fill of sweet spring water and talked of the trail, and folks we had met... altogether, a perfect evening.
Well, it is getting late, so I'd best close for now. Good night, God Bless!
Stickman
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/24/07...Friday... I went from Seth Warner Shelter up on over Mt. Greylock, then into Mark Noepel Shelter for the night. I hiked awhile with "Tea Leave", but he didn't go as far as me. I spent the night with two other hikers, one NOBO, one SOBO. I saw no other hikers all day. I got into the shelter at dusk, having travelled 16.5 miles. Please pray for these things, specifically... my leg continues to heal, my strength builds up, I start hiking more miles, I meet more hikers! Thanks! Good night for now, God Bless!
Stickman
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/25/07...Saturday... I was up a bit earlier, hiking the trail by 6:30 AM. Seems a little strange not having Faithful with me now, and I pray his hike is going well. I will watch for his entries in the shelter logs to check up on him... maybe I will start to catch up to him. I did 16.7 miles for the day, ending at almost 6:00 PM, at Kay Wood Lean-to. I know I will never catch anyone if I do so few miles, but I should build up soon. I was able to pick up my maildrop today, at the Post Office in Cheshire, when it opened up at 8:30 AM, then continued on, passing through Dalton, Massachusetts, to end up at the shelter.
I only met a few people today, but conversation was good with the ones I met. I am just about exhausted, having hiked in 90(plus) degree heat today, and swimming in extremely high humidity. I'm looking for a little cooler day tomorrow... temperature has dropped a bit so far tonight, so I will rest. Lights out! God Bless!
Stickman
STICKMANS' JOURNAL...8/26/07...Sunday... I left Kay Wood Lean-to at 7 AM, and ended the day at 4 PM at Upper Goose Pond CABIN... uhuh! CABIN! YAY! Depending on which data you go by, I either traversed 17.6 miles or 18.3 miles. I guess I will have to settle with 17.6 miles, in 9 hours. At any rate, my back is sore, I met only 6 hikers, and was only able to talk with 4 of them.
A highlight to the day was crossing over the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90), on the pedestrian bridge, for hikers! Then, a mile and a half later, to be at Upper Goose Pond Cabin. The place is wonderful, has bunks with matresses, good swimming, spring water, canoe, and pancake breakfast... all for NO FEE! They do, of course, accept donations, which almost all hikers are willing to give. Pete, who is this weeks caretaker, graciously shared his meal with me. He had cooked up a nice stew, complete with meat, potato, onions, and the like. It was delicious! Pete also said to expect a big breakfast of pancakes in the morning. Thanks so much, Pete, your the greatest.
After a nice swim, and helping bring supplies up to the Cabin from the dock, I sat and chatted with Pete and a couple of hikers that had come in. We sipped our fill of sweet spring water and talked of the trail, and folks we had met... altogether, a perfect evening.
Well, it is getting late, so I'd best close for now. Good night, God Bless!
Stickman
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