Thank your husband for his service....    I can understand the big picture, and life is a very complicated yet simple thing...  

You were interested in reasons for my AT trip:

1) we did because we could...   Do a part when ever you can..

2) I have always known that GOD gives us the opportunity, and we have to take it...

3) I will write more on it as it comes up on my road of life blog...

4) One of the main things is pack light; we were about forty five lbs = too much!! twenty to twenty five lbs is about right...

5) Condition yourself, we started hiking two months before, doing between 3 to 6 miles with full pack....  {No flat land walks either}

6) Get a new pair of proper sized hike boots.... about $100, but well worth it...

7) Get a water purifier system, and at least a 2 liter bladder w. mouth tube, for your back pack...

8) Read up on the trail, and know at least some of the fauna and animals you may encounter in your area...

9) One main theme is be a Zero impact camper; take everything you bring back out, do not mark {Except on the trail logs found in each shelter} or other wise damage any thing if at all possible...

10) Leave the animals alone and they will do the same...  

11) Bring a compos and a small First aid kit...  Some T.P. would be helpful at times! 

Have Hiked Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Hawaii, New York (Up state), Canada, Pôrto Rico, North & South Carolina, Pennsylvania, and West (By GOD) Virginia; Jamaica, and Kenyia.... 

Have seen Bears, Eagles, snakes, fish, reptiles, and many small furry animals...  Leave them alone and they will leave you alone...   

See Ya...