Update from Dad

     The first few pics were taken on top of Springer Mountain, the official start of the south-north AT. It was an easy hike up and down with sunny skies and 53 degrees. The pic of Sam pointing is when he discovered a vein of gold right at the edge of the path. Amazing nobody else had noticed it considering the trail had seen continuous use since 1937. The final 3 pics are Sam walking in to the woods, finally out of sight and on his own for the next  4-5 months. I hope he remembers to turn on the satellite phone.....

- Gary Croft (Father of adventurous hiker)

Going, going, gone.... 

Day Zero

     Tomorrow I'm starting. I'm actually doing this. So far it feels like a dream I'll wake up from. I actually will still be going to El Camino and class is at 2pm. Now that I'm here I'm freaking out more than ever. Yet at the same time I have just as much excited energy and can't wait. By this time tomorrow I bet I'll be exhausted and wanting to go home; or at least somewhere with 4 walls and heating. I figure if I can survive the first week and/or make it to the Smokies I can finish. Goodbye electricity, heating, and hot meals. Hello mountains and cold and snow.

Hobey-ho let's go!

Sincerely,

Sam

Pictures at the Amicalola Falls State Park: It's cold, but not raining.... yet... 

Last Day in California!

Dear World,

     Sam's journey began at 5am this morning! He is currently flying out to Georgia to begin his trek! He was supposed to write one last "OMG I'm Freaking Out!" journal entry, but his computer died so I'm here instead!

     Needless to say, he was DEFINITELY in freak out mode! We managed to pack up all of his gear into a giant duffle bag, which Mr. Croft took with him Monday morning! 40+ pounds people! If Sam doesn't come back with some intense muscles, he must be doing it wrong! But he has everything he needs to ensure a safe, although not necessarily dry, trip! It's raining currently in Georgia and it seems that chances of it letting up are slim, but we can all hope for the best! Sam knew his chances of getting rained on were high, so he is prepared.

Here is a link to a map on which Sam can update where he is!

https://share.delorme.com/SamuelCroft

This way, we know where he is everyone in a while and can track his pace and make sure he's still trudging on!

Sam bids the world a farewell and a friendly "See you Later!"

Did I mention Sam conquered some fears yesterday? I think that's a great way to start a life journey :)

Written for Sam, by Annie

PS: ADD YOURSELF TO THE MAILING LIST! email me simply stating "add as subscriber" or whatever, and I'll make sure you never miss a post! Thanks to all you lovely folks!