2,000 down. A few to go.
Yes, I crossed the 2,000 mile mark today. 2,000 miles hiked on foot since March 29, 2009. The saddest part is I’m too tired to comprehend this at the moment. Honestly, I haven’t been feeling 100% these past few days, not sure why either. Appetite isn’t even the same. Your prayers are appreciated these last 200 or so miles.
However, I’m planning on taking Sunday off as my last zero day. I shall prepare a more thorough, as well as my last, blog from the trail then.
Maine has been…well…okay on the days it’s not raining. I’m still experiencing my fair share of weather. There’s a phenomenon called “Katahdin Blinders,” and I have a full-blown case. Just looking forward to the end. 
And hugging you, all my friends and family.
Ok, I’m going to bed ASAP in hopes that I feel better in the morning. Yes, it’s only 6:10 pm here in Stratton, ME.
I’ll be praying man. You’re almost there!! We’re all so proud of you.
Comment by Andy — August 26, 2009 @ 9:48 pm
Might make it? No, you’ll make it. I’m sure of it! Looking forward to a big Bubba hug from you as well, my friend.
Comment by mandy — August 26, 2009 @ 11:58 pm
I have a feeling that in some ways this last stretch will be over before you know it. Take it in. Look for things you haven’t seen before. Reflect on how far you’ve come. And get home so I can give you a hug at Christmas!
Praying!
Comment by Amy H — August 27, 2009 @ 2:59 am
“…..I think I can…..I think I can….I think I can…..I think I can….I think I can…..I think I can….I think I can…..I think I can….I think I can……..I think I can…..I think I can…..I think I can”
Toot….toot. You’re almost over the top…then smooth sailing on the road with Casting Crowns and friends. What a finish!
Love,
Dad
Comment by Dad — August 27, 2009 @ 4:56 am
M’ijo,
You were born one of Dobson’s strong-willed children!!!! I had to read the book to know what to do with you!! TU PUEDES!!
Just think of a big “iced venti vanilla breve starbuck double shot” times 10 waiting at the end of the trail!!
I’m thinking about taking off from school and meeting you at the end of the trail!! What do ya think??
Comment by Mamá — August 27, 2009 @ 6:34 am
16Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Can’t wait to squeeze you!!!!
Comment by Lindsay Hennig — August 27, 2009 @ 6:50 am
Dude. You’ve made it so far! I’m really proud of you for that. Also, I’m proud of you for having such amazing piano skills and can’t wait to have you back to play some tunes together. You’re on the home stretch!
Comment by Scott — August 27, 2009 @ 8:45 am
Hang in there. Its like the last mile in a 5k or something. You are bone dead tired but you know the finish is right there… don’t let that puny guy out kick you to the finish!
Comment by crossn81 — August 27, 2009 @ 9:34 am
HI sweetie,
I am praying soooo hard for you! The saying “you have come a long way” seems trite.
God has been with you all the way and will be to the end.
I pray the last 200 will be as Issiah says:
“Every valley shall be raised up’
every mountain and hill be made low,
the rough ground shall become level,
the rugged places a plain.
And the glory of God revealed.
I know it is out of context-I just pray that the last 200 miles are the best.
Make yourself eat! Sleep! and know we are all cheering for you. I love you
Comment by A. Margie — August 27, 2009 @ 10:00 am
2000 miles. It’s hard to comprehend that distance. I guess for me its like walking out to Mandy’s in Boulder. And when you think of only 200 more to go that’s just amazing. This is something to really be proud of. God has sustained and carried you this far and I know he’s not physically tired so just lean on him. Try to imagine a 32 inch pepperoni/mushroom Frankfort Pizza waiting at the end of the trail for you. That may keep you inspired and if I could get one there I certainly would try. Maybe when you get back in this neck of woods. See you in a couple of weeks.
Comment by Cheryl Rutherford — August 27, 2009 @ 10:04 am
Chris,
You don’t know me, but I’m a Cedarville grad in Maine (not too many of those!) My wife and I are friends of Lindsey Johnson. Any chance you write me real quick with where you’ll be when? We wouldn’t mind helping you thru these last few hundred miles!
Joe Blakey
Comment by Joe Blakey — August 27, 2009 @ 10:14 am
we love you and are so excited that you are so close to finishing. i can’t imagine how amazing you are going to feel on that ride home when you are totally done. we can’t wait to get a big chris hug!!! YOU CAN DO IT!!!!
celeste
Comment by nathan and celeste — August 27, 2009 @ 11:59 am
This is for all of you that have been so faithful to encourage Chris(topher). I am pleased to see that he has so many people who have been praying for him to be strong. Wouldn’t it be great to have a big party at Cedarville? You know….He and Scott could provide the music….who knows? The MRS and I might even lay down a harmony or two. L.J. could do a Riverdance impression and the rest of you could tap your feet or wave your hands in the air. (Do they allow that at C-Ville). Well….anyway….thank you all so much.
Dad….also known as Pops, Uncle D and Dr. Hennig!
Comment by Dad — August 27, 2009 @ 6:22 pm
Oh Lord, protect, provide, strengthen and encourage…
The last stretch is always the hardest… stay faithful to the call! God will take you the rest of the way… and home again!
Comment by Meredith Darsey — August 27, 2009 @ 8:29 pm
Chris, since we met you (only briefly) back at Amicalola Falls State Park, I’ve been following your journey and sending you best wishes and strong thoughts. You’re doing an amazing thing, and you have many supporters and admirers. Hang in there and try to enjoy the last few hundred miles.
To your family: Y’all have obviously done a fine job raising a wonderful young man. I’m proud of him and I only met once!
All the best…
Comment by Sandra Sallee — August 28, 2009 @ 9:07 am
Wuss. Its only 200 more man. The last 70 are a breeze too. no more mountains except for Katahdin, which is a bit of a struggle. I liked hiking with you a lot. I understand its difficult for you now that you cant hike with the stooges anymore. Enjoy it while it lasts my friend. Soon you will be doing what you have done for years again.
Cya soon in Holland
Hi sis of Chris!
Larry
Comment by Joost aka Larry — August 28, 2009 @ 2:29 pm
To Trudge: the slow weary depressing yet determined walk of a man who has nothing left in his life except the impulse to simply soldier on.” (Chaucer)
To Trudge: To go somewhere that you don’t necessarily want to go…with style.
Just a few feet more. Keep on trudging my friend!
Comment by Jen — August 29, 2009 @ 12:39 pm