20 Comments
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Jeanne Julian's avatar

Had not connected with your story for awhile. Admiring your spirit and stamina! Best wishes.

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Diana's avatar

Thanks for the update, Jonathan. We are very excited about your progress as a few of us battle cancer and other health issues; you inspire us. Hikers and writers hold hands and traverse, exploring the greatness we experience by choice, chance, or serendipity. We're holding on with hope for brighter days, guided by grace and gratitude.

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Jonathan Giles's avatar

What a beautiful comment, Diana. Damn, I need to keep this in mind as I write about my hiking (and the cancer too). I hope your battle with cancer is on the upswing.

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Marlene Steinour's avatar

Dear Camino / MST Beast. Thank you for the update on your journey both MST and your health. I know you will complete your 250...180 miles hell or high water. I remember on the Camino where we made a 12 mile hike wrong turn on our 1st day of our 500 mile pilgrimage. We made it to our hostel in Borda with a loaf of bread in your pack and experlatives expressed:). The hostel owner, Lorenzo, welcomed us and took care of us.

You are an amazing BIL,you will overcome all of life's obstacles. I know it! 💕 M

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Jonathan Giles's avatar

Thanks, Marlene. As a BIL (brother-in-law) and hiking partner on the Camino, your companionship and, dear I say, leadership, was inspirational, even when we were lost. I welcome your participation at any point on my journey. Let's discuss in July!

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Jane S. Gabin's avatar

I hope your health is on the upswing, Jonathan! Rosie’s, too! Prayers will get you both to achieve your goal!

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Jonathan Giles's avatar

Thanks, Jane! I hope all is well with you.

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Karen Steinour's avatar

You know what they say…it’s all about being present and grateful, while simultaneously going with the flow…🥰

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Richard Gehring's avatar

It sounds like very good news. You are determined to get back out there and the passion is strong. I had an arthrodesis (big toe fused with 2 screws) a few years back and that put my hiking addiction on hold for quite a while. I had to come back gradually and methodically. All the best to you and your future endeavors!

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Jonathan Giles's avatar

Thanks, Rich! Between our various ailments, we could write a book! Let's discuss this fall!

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Erik Hogan's avatar

Nice Jonathan, I’m so excited to hear that you’re getting back at it!

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Jonathan Giles's avatar

Thanks, Erik! The consistency of your posts (let alone quality) is amazing!

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Ray Benson Miller's avatar

Jon, always a reward to read your posts. This hike has transformed into a surreal allegory about life itself and everything that truly matters: love, being thankful, being present, living fully and of course, the company of a good dog. You've got this.

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Jonathan Giles's avatar

What a nice comment! As you have stated many, many times, the company of a good dog is critical.

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Deborah Adams's avatar

I have recently joined your journey and wish you all the best getting back to your forest bathing and hiking with your pup. Gorgeous photos, Just the best! Babbie Tussing

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Jonathan Giles's avatar

Thanks, Deborah, for the company. Glad to have you with me!

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Lavonne's avatar

May you be back to hiking in the NC mountains (especially with those cool evening breezes) soon.

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Jonathan Giles's avatar

Thanks, Lavonne. I agree about the cool evening breezes. Critical when sleeping in an otherwise hot pup-tent!

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Julie's avatar

Jonathan! How good to hear from you and your pup. And how good to know you will spend more time in those gorgeous forests. Julie

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Jonathan Giles's avatar

Thanks for your comments, Julie! I look forward to hiking with you around Asheville one day soon!

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