AT Happiness: No Straight Lines
One consistent theme in my life has been the lack of straight lines. My career path resembles the results of a fight between two cans of silly string.
One thing that attracted me to doing an Appalachian Trail thru-hike was the opportunity to do something in a straight line fashion.
I should have known better. Over the last week I have been struggling with knee problems and some skin issues on 20+ mile days. I’m getting better after resting for some time in Damascus. I’ll move out on Friday and move forward through the Grayson Highlands to Mt. Rogers and into Marion, VA.
My lovely heat and/or wool allergy rash
I then plan to jump forward up the trail a few hundred miles and hike the Shenandoah National Park and continue North. The reason I’m jumping forward is that I’m afraid my knees might not have the full 2200 miles in them. So my hope is to jump forward and spare my knees enough to get into the Northeast portion of the trail. Timing it of course to get the best possible weather. Having grown up in the Northeast I really want to do that part of the trail.
After hopefully summitting Katahdin I’ll go to Ireland and Scotland as planned then return later in the fall to mop up the sections I missed and complete the trail assuming my knees hold out.
So this is the plan for now and even includes a side trip to Washington, DC to play tourist there. I’ve never done that before. So it is a change, definitely not a straight line, but still all about happy days my friends. – Rev Kane
The Ministry of Happiness 
Mike stop some place and get a.cortisone cream for your leg. You are doing a great job. Just take good.care of yourself. Love and prayers aunt Margie
Thanks Aunt Margie
Straight lines are usually more efficient but can be boring. Your path is your own. Hail Scotland!
Colin
Thanks brother!
Hi Mike how is your day? Better still.how is.the.leg?..can I send.you socks? White ones.
let me know if you.need anything. .remind me to.tell you the story.of.Grandpa Kane and socks!!!!!! Mother Carmel broke her.hip so.I am here with her and she.thinks you are in worse shape then her. Be safe and I’m love you.Aunt Margie
Mike,
I don’t think anyone’s life is a straight line. Mine for sure. I think what u r doing is great and I really admire you. There is times in life u need to take a straight line. I think this is yours. Good luck.
Thanks cuz, appreciate the support