Jack Masters is a member of the Class of 2018. While he's been interested in the possibility of hiking the appalachian Trail, a year ago it didn't seem likely. But life changes, and Jack has had a tumultuous year. Despite this, he has taken control of and redirected his life and, in a couple of short weeks, Vagabond Jack will be testing himself once more. He even decided to travel and hitched his wagon to hit the road.

I met Jack as a listener to my show. We emailed back and forth and he eventually decided to join the Fat Guys, and Gals, Back in the Woods. I took to him instantly and we became friends. Despite this experience (as opposed to because of it), Jack announced to ur group that a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail was in his future. This picture was taken on our hike together.

I hope that you all follow Jack on his journey. You can find his blog on Trail Journals and you can also reach him on Facebook.

Doctor Lynne has plenty of good advice on how to look after orthopedic injuries, with me, once again, providing the idiot questions.

Don't forget to follow our other show, Returning to Katahdin, with Bruce Matson. Bruce is also getting near the start of his adventure and this week we discuss his winter gear.

I'm so pleased that Trailtopia have continued to support the show, signing up for a further six months. I hope that you nsupport them and, in doing so, you'll be supporting me.