Bittersweet

I want to say thank you to everyone for their kind words, prayers, encouragement, and enthusiasm in my adventure.  However, Rachel and I have decided that this is not the year to complete.  Several factors have weighed into this decision and we are both good with it.  We are already working on future plans so that I will finally complete this trail. 

We decided that VT border would be the stopping point this year. 

Below are some pictures from atop Mount Greylock (highest point in MA) and less than 10 miles from VT border.  I have been fighting the rain the past couple of days and caught a break on top of the mountain.

I have made it home and spending some great time with my family this week before school starts.  If there is one thing that I learned this past month while hiking, it is that I miss my kids!!!  Reflecting on my father and watching other families out on the trail really made me realize how blessed I am with my family.  Hopefully some portions of the trail will be hiked with my kids by my side.

Thanks again for all the kind words...
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Highest Point in MA



War Memorial on top of Mt Greylock



Mt Greylock



Rainy view from the top





Caught a break in the rain and a rainbow



Worth cutting ANY trip short



p.s.-  If you have asked Rachel recently where I was, she may have told you a "white lie".  We wanted the kids to be the first to know and not have it posted on Facebook before I was able to post it first.  thanks for understanding.