Time, it seems, moves differently in the ‘real’ world. We officially left the trail on July 12th, when we pushed our injuries in a test hike and finally accepted their severity. After a morning hike today – far from the Appalachian Trail – the two months off trail might have been two minutes.
I am pleased to say that it still takes but a moment of concentration, or just a few breaths after stepping into the Australian bush, for the beautiful tranquility of the trail to return to my heart. I hope that never changes.
We were incredibly lucky to be able to return to an interim reality when trail life ended so abruptly. A surreal week as comically scruffy tourists in New York City whilst waiting for changed flights was followed by the warm embrace of family back in Oz. On any objective basis that has been an enormous luxury.
I’ve had the chance to get to know my niece and nephew – who immediately became two of my favourite people – and Sam’s parents have an apartment in one of Australia’s most sought after holiday destinations. We have been spoiled by ocean views, cafe culture and world famous beaches, not to mention a pool, spa, sauna and tennis court if leaving the building is too much trouble. That and 100% warm sunny weather of the so-called “winter/spring” season.
So, when we curled up to lick our wounds and get fat feeling sorry for ourselves, our hearts still on the AT, we were doing it under pretty ideal circumstances!
Back on the trail, a lot has been happening. Our mates have had their own challenges – some injuring off like us, others scattering to other trails. But over the last few days the majority of our cohort have been reaching the summit of Katahdin and the end of the trail. With each shared summit photo we feel the joy of finishing, yet the each also help to confirm that this new world is indeed the real one – albeit in our case a somewhat enhanced version for the time being.
Our efforts at facing up to the real world have begun; exploring the bushwalking opportunities of the Gold Coast hinterland, and preliminary efforts at regaining some of our trail fitness. That, and a very Gold Coast friendly extreme sport – I am now a novice Kitesurfer – lots of enthusiasm, all the gear and no idea!
So life is absurdly pleasant at the moment, and yet it all still feels like filling in time until we can go back and finish our beloved Appalachian Trail!
