Books and my backpack

A changed man.
That was David Miller after walking 2,172 miles on the Appalachian Trail.

For the rest of his life, he vowed to do the hard things. “I will have fewer ‘shoulda have dones’ even if it means some ‘wish I hadn’ts’ “ he wrote in AWOL on the Appalachian Trail.

He was 41 when he quit his job as a software engineer, left a wife and three young daughters at home (with his wife’s support), and walked for 146 days from Georgia to Maine. Going by AWOL, his trail name, Miller pushes himself too hard at the beginning, leading to painful blisters and exhaustion. Later, he becomes stronger and more able to walk longer days.

On arguably America’s most difficult thru-hike, he learns to be less isolated as he forms friendships with other trekkers, trail angels, and people who host him. He experiences the freedom that comes with being vulnerable.

The narration flows smoothly. He does not gloss over his physical and mental struggles and paints vivid pictures of the trail and his fellow walkers. This is an excellent book for anyone considering tackling the AT. Miller is also known for writing a trusted guide book about the trail.

North Dakota is not what I expected. Sue and I came here to cross off state number 46 on our RV adventures, not anticipating much natural beauty.

Theodore Roosevelt, who dedicated our nation to preserving lands as monuments and parks, said his experiences in this state made him a better man. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, in western North Dakota, honors his memory.

The state boasts vivid green grasslands, rolling hills, badlands, and countless lakes. I sit at our campsite at Fort Ransom State Park, a beautifully designed place with expansive sites and views. Plus 20 miles of gorgeous trails.

From the state’s website: “The Be Legendary brand celebrates the land, the legends, the adventurous spirit, the vibrant communities, the scenic places and the genuine people of North Dakota.”

Sorry to have underestimated you, North Dakota.