I have not been posting because of the Corona virus outbreak putting my plans in doubt. Trying to stay busy and keep myself distracted while we play the 'wait and see' game. Received an email today from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy organization asking hikers to cancel their planned trips. I will probably have to postpone at the very least. It is possible the trail might be closed down for a month or they could impose more strict interstate travel restrictions which would make the thru hike impossible. Right now, I am just avoiding making any emotional decisions and will continue to talk it through with Echo, research online, and wait.

I would be absolutely gutted to have walked away from my job for nothing, but I would feel even worse if I infected a town and someone died in my wake. Especially when I know my reasons for wanting to go are purely selfish.

The virus has complicated everything about my upcoming hike and has destroyed a lot of the conveniences thru hikers depend on. I can no longer depend on the restaurants and stores near the trail having supplies or even being open. I can no longer depend on hostels or motels being open during rest days. I can no longer depend on hitchhiking into town for a quick resupply. Outfitters and post offices are closing so if a piece of gear gets torn up I may not be able to replace it. I have planned for events like the risk of getting sick and the cost of sheltering in place for an extended time period. But now it is more complicated because how do I get home? I would have to avoid public transportation like buses, trains, and planes. I cannot even use rental car for fear of getting the next person sick. What if Echo or my parents get sick and I am stuck in another state unable to leave?

All of this and more is rolling around in my brain. Will update once I know more. Hopefully in a couple weeks things will look better. I will post a 'budget' journal in the upcoming days to discuss how I planned for that part in the mean time. Stay safe out there!