I’m Karen. I don’t camp. I don’t hike. I don’t even watch the Nature Channel. And yet I know a lot about thru hiking the Appalachian Trail. A lot. Not that I intend to set foot on it, but I’m the home support for a husband and daughter who are about to embark on a six month adventure. Getting to the post office isn’t my strong point; I hope they’re not counting on a lot of mail drops…
I’m Bennett, a 22-year-oldgraduate of the University of Georgia. Despite receiving my degree in Mass Media & New Media, I’ve decided to leave technology (mostly) behind 
and thru-hike the A.T with my dad. When I’m not worrying I’ll freeze to death in the Smokies or hiding my Bravo TV addiction, I love coffee, fitness, and hearing people’s stories. You can catch my personal blog posts at betraverse.tumblr.com or see my Appalachian Trials guest posts here.
And I am Bennett’s father, Jerry. I work of Bank of America in technology, which is kindly allowing me a 6-month leave of absence to complete this incredible goal. I recently retired at the end of 2012 as Scoutmaster of Troop 434 in Dunwoody, GA after serving for 26 years. I have wanted to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail since I first hiked from Hogpen Gap to Neels Gap with the Troop.
I hung up the Scout uniform to start concentrating on and preparing mentally for our thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. The preparation has included reading the Appalachian Trials and A.T. Guide books and dropping the weight of my backpack. We hit the trail on March 16 from Springer Mountain GA, headed north.
Jerry, I think I missed the meeting where you said you were doing the AT. Jeff W. gave me your site link today and I will begin following you. I see you just left Damascus (about 2 hours from my home). My friend from Church just made 200 miles on the trail and twisted his knee and came home yesterday. That was a bummer. Best of all to you and your daughter and those you come in contact with. Stay safe and dry. Ronnie Bell
I had the great good fortune to share some down time with your hikers yesterday at mile 902! They were looking hail and hearty, all smiles and good humor. As the ‘couch supporter’ for my daughter, Mountain Goat, who is hiking the PCT this year, I congratulate you on the fabulous job you do of supporting them, Karen. It isn’t easy being home and hearing about the adventures, is it? – GoatMama