This was almost a post to announce that I officially quit the trail.
The mosquitoes yesterday and this morning were horrendous. Between
that and the heat and humidity it's been a mental roller coaster. I
breathed in and choked on 5 mosquitoes as I climbed a 700ft ascent
this morning. Kevin and I took a long break around noon wondering what
we are doing out here. It's so hard to remain positive at times like
these. I've just had to keep reminding myself that this is my only
chance until I retire to thru-hike the AT. And on we go...
Sent from my iPhone
13 comments:
No, you need to keep reminding yourself what an amazing experience this is and you've gone this far which in itself is a huge accomplishment and there are times that are REALLY hard but the happy, beautiful, meaningful times later on will make the mountain climb with the mosquitos and heat a distant memory of "yeah, that stunk, but it I got through it."
Chad you're the only person I know who can do this with as much appreciation, enthusiasm, knowledge, and optimism as you hold.
You are a unique individual and I haven't heard you complain once until now, 3/4 into it. Don't let yourself falter like that! Before you left you and I read a quote that we both thought was pretty meaningful, and I've been waiting for the right time to send it to you, and I think that time is now:
"By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is the noblest; Second, by imitation, which is the easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest."
You can do this Chad. We all believe in you. Keep your head up.
"It isn't the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it's the pebble in your shoe." (Muhammid Ali)
Take your shoe off, dump out the pebble and look foward to next mountain!
Dennis and Andrew
what is worse.. the bugs today or the endless days of rain a couple months ago. push on brother.. push on.... the summer bugs in the new england woods is a terrible thing. keep the bug nets out and try to keep covered and cool.. it is a challenge!
Mr. DeVoe we are proud of you, what you are doing is awesome! 1500 miles is amazing, keep it going and just look at those mosquitos as protein! Matt 10th Andrew 4th R.
The marathoner at my house says its all about mental toughness.... you are at about mile 17 out of 26.... don't let the mosquitoes get you now!!
You know whatever you do, is good. So few even start, and so few go as far as you have gone....and what a spring/summer it's been. Those of us sitting inside watching the rain have been bummed. I can't imagine, as Chuck said, eating, walking, sleeping, living through this weather. You've done great. You'll do great. Do what you truly want. You've beaten most....and you've sure done better than I would ever think of doing. Good for you guys!
Chad,
Just wanted to let you know that Heidi and I have been reading the blog all along (I guess we're just bad at leaving comments), and we appreciate all the posts. Also, you're my hero, and we know you can make it.
Your Neighbor,
James
Sounds like I'll have to put together a mosquito flame thrower defense system.. hmmm... mu hah hah hah - Jon M.
I am having a great summer:
Cayuga Lake
Lake trout fishing continues to improve. Fish are being found in 65 to 110 feet of water. Brown trout and some good sized Atlantic salmon are biting well for anglers fishing spoons 50 to 65 down over 80 to 120 feet of water. Spiny water fleas are making trolling more difficult. Bass fishing remains good on the north end with fish hitting spinnerbaits, jerkbaits, Senco's, plastic craws, swimbaits and jigs. Yellow perch are being taken in the north end in 15-20 feet of water on small minnows.
Don't give up Mr. DeVoe!!
Hope things have gotten better! I'm sure I would have quit a long time ago. I have never imagined my kids doing something as adventurous as your doing when they grow up. But, now I can because they can imagine it. You have inspired my kids and I'm sure many others to dream big! What a great gift!
whats up man, almost there! Keep up the good work. I actually have one more package to send from GES. Good luck, I will send some repelent! Johnny
Chad I'm glad things are better...from everything Court has told me I know you can do this. Take mental health breaks when you need to, you can always push and catch up when things are better. I, too, read your blog in its entirety, and am so inspired by it. You are having a positive impact on so many people. You are being the ultimate teacher and educator, the epitome of your chosen profession. 2 quotes for you: "When a caterpillar tries to break out of a cocoon, it's a hard struggle. But it needs that struggle to survive. It's the struggle that helps strenthen its wings, and dry its body so it can fly. If someone simply cut open the cocoon, the caterpillar would never become a butterfly." Lastly, "When it's dark enough, you can see the stars." Ralph Waldo Emerson
Chad, hang in there. "This too, shall pass, for we may never pass this way again." Love and hugs....Char
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