The past week has been an adventure in and of itself. Not just for myself but for my family as well. I am so grateful for the family that I have been blessed with. Through the week I had to wrap everything up at my job, prepare to move, and actually move. Also, over the weekend both of my sisters graduated. Overall the weekend was very busy and eventful.

When you face the stress of great obstacles there is nothing better than knowing someone has your back. Family is one of the most important things to me. I grew up in a wonderful home with dozens of wonderful families surrounding me giving me extraordinary examples to model my life after and also to form my future family around. Never underestimate the strength of the family unit. I am so glad that I have the support of a large group of family and friends to encourage us on our walk to victory.

Now for thoughts of the trail. Margo and I fly to Denver tonight.  Then after an overnight layover we fly into Knoxville tomorrow. Oh man… Its starting to get real. All morning we have been packing our backpacks and preparing for the flight. My pack comes in at 48 lbs and my sisters comes in at 38 lbs (not including water). Ugh… quite a weight on the shoulders… literally… Anyway… Several people have given me grief about the weight of my pack. But they don’t understand. when your 6′ 8″ and 300 lbs. you clothes are bigger, your gear is bigger, everything you own is bigger and heavier. I know who I am, I know my stuff weighs more, and I am prepared to carry whatever weight I have to across the AT.

Anyway here are a few pics as were getting ready to fly out. Here we go wish us luck.