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Honored that the Window Cats made the album! J&J will miss their couch potato buddy Justin, but it’s time to launch the WAM back to his ultimate destination. Little road time tomorrow then he’s back on foot! You’ve got this, M
Just checked in on your site and was bummed to read that you had to get off trail for a bit! On the bright side… we might run into each other again! Wishing you fast healing.
Sending all the good vibes and well wishes from 315 Court Street. What an amazing journal you've created to take us all on the trail with you! Glad you are with family and on the mend. Happy Trails!
Yo team WAM! We need to launch this guy back on his journey! Send +++vibes for good weather, big energy, and renewed strength. Hoping to have another family event and off he goes. See you again soon Justin
Well, what a roller coaster the last 24 hours have been! Good news today, I’ll let W-A-M tell y’all about it. So glad and relieved and thrilled that this all happened when and where it did, more synchronicity on the trail and beyond! Looking forward to rest relaxation recovery and togetherness until Justin’s journey continues. Peace out, Rescue Mama
Hey y’all he’s “home”;safe n sound and can’t be anymore proud that Justin has made the decision to rest relax and recover in his family friends territory. Love to have him here and know there is some medical info to work thru. This is such an amazing support group keep up the +++. He’s sharing some incredible AT stories and pics. I am the happiest mama in the world right now.
Hiya Justin! I haven't had a chance to check your progress in a bit-you are doing great!! I hope you are having a lot of fun and meeting many interesting people. I can't wait to hear more about it when you come back to FL :) take care of yourself.
Hi! Hello! Bonjour! Aloha! Bienvenue! Gutentag! Hola! Shalom! Bum dia! Welcome to Mass!
Absolutely killing it, my man.
Connecticut has a lot of bridges! Many very unique architecturally. Here’s a fun fact you may know but I’ll share with the WAM fan club…your great grandfather Curtis Jay Hooper was a civil engineer for the stare of CT and designed many of the bridges in the state. So think of CJH while you are there, you are in family territory now! Can’t wait to share some of this adventure with you, and maybe even have PBJs on the trail together🤪
I am halfway through your journey... and I'm still reading your new updates!
I'm not sure how familiar you are with soccer, but today was the final between Argentina and Spain!
Thank God Spain won in extra time! A lot of people were upset with Messi because they felt he played dirty and wasn't punished.
I hope you end your weekend on a high note! The weather is nice here in New Jersey, and I hope you have a great and safe week! 🌞
We’re in a New York State of mind! Visiting your amazing auntie Jodi and going to celebrate Chester’s first birthday! Send a pic of you and crew in NYC please. So many awesome memories of biting the Big Apple with you. Enjoy zero time then get your ass back out there, the Greens and Whites are waiting for you🙃
Yankees do suck, but everybody sucks compared to the BoSox right now... maybe a pennant run is in the cards if they keep hitting the ball? Enjoy the big city, but I would advise (from personal experience ;) against wearing any Boston gear if you're passing through the Bronx
Fun to catch up on these this week. When I read “My lowest point” I won’t lie I got a little nervous haha. Glad to see you’re actually doing well.
That beard is getting some volume dude! Love to see it.
Keep on keepin on, Whack-a-Mole!
Marching across the Hudson? Spectacular! Quite the Epic Odyssey you’re on! You know the blockbuster of the summer opens tomorrow? I hope you can treat yourself to a little zero time to spend time with the HERO. Can’t wait to see you soon! March on you Warrior! Nipmuc reference😉
Hey Justin! Thanks so much for building and updating this page! It's sooooo cool seeing your journey and all the funny and beautiful pictures you're taking! I hope your voyage continues going well as you become the Modern Mountain Man, growing a beard while conquering the Appalachia! Best of luck as you travel through the New England area! As you near the end, you may feel the full court press, but you have a whole army of folks ready to set a pick! Roll and shoot! You got this! <3
Hey Justin! WOW! I can't believe how far you have traveled! What determination! Well done, my friend. I was in Robbinsville, Bryson City, and Cherokee the week of July 4th! I love that area! Too bad we weren't there the same time! Safe travels! It is awesome to see your progress and pictures!
That monarch today was someone who loves you, whether you ever met them or not, synchronicity on the trail for you! Poppy, EFD1, Grammy Hooper, C2, could have been anyone or everyone! Or maybe the butterfly was just attracted to your stench, just sayin’ love ya, M
It was truly amazing meeting you today at the Elk Pen Trailhead!
Please stay safe and keep sharing your amazing adventures!
I think I just found a new hobby—checking out everything on your account!
Happy hiking! 🐿🐾🌳🦟🥾
Hi Justin! I've had a chance to catch up on your travels, and I cannot believe how far you've come! I recently spent a few days in a creek-side cabin in the woods of TN with my husband and our dogs for our 27th anniversary, so of course I thought of you and prayed for your safety. I love reading about all the trail magic and provisions along your way because I can see God answering those prayers for you. I feel like I've gotten to know you so much better through your writing. I'm glad to see people have poured into your life as much as you have poured into theirs.
Our cabin was not too far from Chattanooga, so there's another recommendation to pull you there. Those ticks you mentioned are no joke! My husband and I pulled 15 off ourselves and our pups in just three days in TN!
Keep the updates coming! I prepared a work newsletter update about your progress a few weeks ago that we are about to publish, and now I see that you have traveled hundreds of miles more since then so we need to edit! I love your positive attitude (despite the Children of the Corn and Rocksylvania). I know you are inspiring others as much as you inspire me. Stay safe out there!
Hi happy Monday morning! Have a great week, stay cool and hydrated!
Hey bud. Thought about you this morning, so I popped in to check in on your journey. Incredible! I am glad to see you are enjoying yourself. Good luck on the rest of your journey, and I look forward to hearing all about it when you get back to work. BTW, digging the beard. Welcome to the club!
PA?? This is crazy! Proud of you brotha. This week’s journals have been great to catch up on. Hope you’re staying cool up there somehow brotha. Safe travels, Whack-a-Mole
You’re a hiking machine!
Happy Independence Day! I hope the weather works out for you to spend your 4th however you please!
👏👏👏 just wow. What a journey.
Rockin the beard I love it! You’re a true ginger
Nasty heat wave coming, stay cool out there!
HALF WAY!! Wow massive accomplishment so proud and excited! Loving staying connected on so many levels and glad you are meeting and sharing with new people. Good to tell your stories and gain perspective from others. March on!
Been fun catching up on these journals. Keep it up, Whack-a-Mole!
Great pics! Looks like you're having fun!
I see you hit Front Royal; a place I spent some time in as a kid, had friends from there. Enjoy Harpers Ferry when you get there, another place I spent time in as a kid. It's been well over 30 years, so I couldn't recommend where to eat (haha) as at that time, my go to was hard rock candy! Keep trekking, I'm enjoying your posts.
Happy Hump Day! How many humps can you conquer today? Humpin’ along with you in spirit 🤪🙃😘
Glad to know your nose knows better 😉
Almost hitting that two month mark as a nomad and it looks like you just eclipsed 1000 miles! Brother it is so crazy to see how far you've already explored. Excited to see more and hear about all the side quests you embark on. Site is an awesome showcase, thanks for putting this together so me and my glass knees can virtually tag along.
Happy Monday! Stay cool and hydrated out there
Dag! Go Nederland! Great memories of our visit to NL and Kings Day and the Oranje Army! Such a proud and strong and resilient people and your hiking crew are certainly Dutch at heart, blijf marcheren!!
Keep it up big dawg, 1k comin up
Happy Summer Friday my friend, enjoy it!
Impressive, creative post our sweet nephew! We are so very proud of you! Keep up the posts and keep on hiking Hooper! We love you!
I suppose after weeks of virtually following your journey on the AT, it was about time I dropped you a note. Your updates, perspectives, and shared thoughts give a unique insight into not only your experiences on the trail, but also let me 'learn more about the man through his own words'.
Glaine ár gcroí, Neart ár ngéag, Beart de réir ár mbriathar
This note was inspired by your Jun 8th shoutout ;-)
TGIF! Hoping your day is Fun Fantastical Finnish Foraging? Floppy Flowery Foodie Fancy Farty Festive Freaky Fortunate Fellowship
Hi Justin! I've been catching up from being out of the office at Calvary Teen Camp last week, so I was finally able to check in with your latest adventures today. I truly look forward to reading your entries and seeing your photos. You really make us feel like we are out there with you (minus the sweat, bears, and bug bites, of course). I'm glad your nose has healed and you have been blessed with good food, people, and pups along your way. I was touched by your thoughtful moment of remembrance for our staff. We should all slow down long enough to reflect on the people we miss and their positive impact in our lives.
I thought of you often at camp. The grounds at Lake Yale aren't nearly as remote or rustic as what you are encountering, but definitely still more "nature-y" than the office! We had about 300 campers and about 100 leaders including the production and worship teams. The first two days were incredibly hot, but then humidity calmed a bit and it was much more bearable. We enjoyed intense games, relays, and competitions on the field, flag football and volleyball tournaments, water wars and slip 'n slide dodgeball, silent disco (have you have done it? So fun!), Karaoke Bingo, leader man hunt (they didn't find me!), and of course, amazing worship, preaching, and Bible study small groups. I had a group of 13 9th grade girls. There were some incredibly meaningful moments when individual students across all grades realized how much Jesus sacrificed for them on the cross and accepted His free gift of salvation. Have you personally experienced a moment like that? Others were able to get support for some really severe challenges in their lives at home. I was able to pray with a girl who is struggling because she graduated and is terrified to start college. Many lives were truly changed for the better, and it was such an honor to be part of it. I had so much fun, and it was refreshing to get away from the cares of this world and focus on eternal things. I also met another leader who is an incredible artist. He is only 19 years old, but his talent is truly on a prodigy level. You can check him out @calebmcknightart.
Being back in the office feels strange and tough in many ways after such an incredible mountaintop week. I can't even imagine what it will feel like for you after several months out there on the trail. It is clear that your experience has already taught you so much and changed your life even after just a third of the journey.
I continue to pray for you. Thanks for the updates! Please keep them coming!
Kroger's eh? You should be getting into Wegman's territory soon, if not already!
Thinking of you Hoops, and SO proud! Swing by DC if you get hungry and we’ll grab burgers and a beer❤️
OK Hoops, you really got me with entry 40! Such an amazing feeling when synchronicity finds you, it’s such a gift and I’m so happy that you embrace it and find comfort in knowing that there is another realm we can connect with. March on and thanks for sharing!
Your awesome journey continues!!! Has been great following along.
Jaundice of the nose man that’s brutal
Hi Justin – Awesome photos! It’s so cool to follow your journey and see the beauty you’re experiencing along the way. Wishing you steady footing, good weather, and lots of amazing moments ahead!
OMG-your poor nose :( I hope you are feeling better.
Good afternoon Justin. It's been a minute since I last checked in with you but that doesn't mean you've not been thought of. It's hard to believe it's been just over a month since you started on your journey. I must say, I'm a tad green that you're living life (in my opinion) the way life was meant for us to live as opposed to the daily rituals of life (working, paying bills and so on) which I feel is roughing it. I've decided that when you're ready to do this again, I'm coming with you (yes, I decided :)). By the way, your poor nose. Thank you for sharing all the awesome photos and taking us along with you. You are killing it! Rock on Rock Star.
Thinking about you and sending love.
Happy Monday and happy June! Quite a journal entry on the 29th, thanks for sharing your profound thoughts and tidbits about the minutia that you overcome step by step, literally and figuratively. Carry on! With love pride admiration ❤️
Happy summer Friday my friend, make it a good one!
Great to see Coach Becker here! Memories of years courtside warm my heart ❤️ Book suggestions of course Grandma Gatewoods Walk, a must for any hikers out there. Also how about some Greek classics The Odyssey and The Iliad? Talk about physical and emotional challenges! March on, you Warrior! Nipmuc reference 🙃🙃🙃
And a book suggestion would be Atlas Shrugged.
Justin, love the trail name. Hiking the AT has always been a dream of mine. One day at a time. You got this!
Hi Justin! I am truly enjoying reading your updates and seeing your pics. Behind all the data you worked on here, you somehow managed to hide the fact that you are very creative and engaging writer! We might need to make you a regular contributor to the newsletter when you come back! It has brought me joy to see how happy you are out there. I pray that your travels and interactions continue to inspire you and that your reflections lead you to think more about God and His love for you. Have you considered what He is teaching you about Himself and His purpose for you through this journey? I would love to know more about the spiritual impact on your life when you come home. If you don't already have one, I encourage you to pick up a small (and lightweight!) Bible or download a Bible app and start reading in the book of John when you stop to rest now and then. If you want to chat about it (or anything else), my cell is 727-455-4837. Stay safe out there!
Holy bananas you’re really crushing it out there! Word on the street (trail) is that you’ve become a bit of a legend out there 🙃 I hear it in your tone that this is fun challenging social and there’s nowhere else you’d rather be this spring and summer… carry on, one step at a time!
Your chill crew is thinking of you!!! Hoping you find some natural springs to cold plunge your way through your travels :D
...that which we are, we are,
One equal temper of heroic hearts,
Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will
To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.
Ulysses
Alfred, Lord Tennyson
You are doing great man, keep it up!
Hope your trip is going well! Enjoyed meeting you in Hot Springs and hearing about your journey. Thanks for the shoutout!
Jaundice of the ankle my friend, that’s the worst
Congrats on 40 steps btw. Took awhile but i knew you’d get em in eventually
You’re killing it. Keep those ankles wrapped up
So glad Zero Day was fun and eventful! Also glad you’re listening to your friends family body when it’s time to slow down or take a break… all this will enhance the overall experience! PS you’re welcome in my basement anytime 🙃 love pride admiration, all the good stuff 🥰
You are doing great, my friend. Keep on keeping on!
Hey Justin! Spoke to your dad a few days ago and he let me know of your trek and web site. I think it's a fantastic mission you're on. Your web page is great and I will be fan-viewing thru the fall to Katahdin. Who knows- maybe I'll join you for a day in the northeast. Godspeed Whackamole!
Wanted to drop a note of encouragement and let you know we are praying for healing and endurance! You are doing awesome :)
Thinking about you. You are beyond impressive. Stay safe out there. I just read the trees update!
Thank you for posting all your messages and pictures! It's wonderful to take this journey vicariously with you :) You are making great progress. (I would like more selfies- you look so happy). I'm happy for you, and I will admit, a little jealous.
Hi Hoops! Mia and I are having breakfast together in PL reading your latest post...we're thinking of you and sending you the most positive vibes! Love, love, love, Jill & Mia
Can’t wait to see that sexy beard of yours in october 🫣
Go whackamole go! Miss u!
Killing it man. Looking strong!
Happy Monday morning! Have a nice work week 😋 most of us have a day off next Monday, how will you celebrate Memorial Day?
Don’t eat homemade cookies from these backwoods people. Good luck tomorrow I bet you can’t do 26.2 miles in a day. Allison says “impressed”
Justin!
You are making amazing progress! Love the updates! What an incredible challenge to take on. I hope every mile brings you great views, memorable moments, and a strong sense of accomplishment. Stay safe, trust yourself through the tough stretches, and enjoy the journey one step at a time. We miss you but know you're living your current dream!
Continued prayers!
Look out for ultrarunners. They are worse than polar bears.
I might walk to Gatlinburg just for that BBQ - jeesh!
Just caught up on your last few entries. Glad to see you’ve made it through Great Smoky! Keep up the great pace.
Let’s. Go. Wack. A. Mole!
Hello, we've been trying to reach you about your car's extended warranty.
Justin!
It takes great discipline and courage to take this journey, and as with EVERYTHING you do, you GOT THIS! Don't forget to have fun along the way! - Kimberly
Hi Justin! I was able to catch up on all your updates and photos today. I'm so glad you're staying safe, seeing beautiful sites (some of my favorite GA and NC locations!), connecting with cool people, and most importantly, eating good BBQ. I'm happy to see you thriving out there! Keep the updates coming! My family continues to pray for you on your journey.
You have Standing Bear hostel and Hot Springs ahead of you when you're done with the Smokies. Good stops for decent rest after the go-go days from shelter to shelter. Good luck on your adventure.
Justin, wishing you an amazing journey on the Appalachian Trail!
Not many people have the courage and determination to pursue a dream like this, and I really admire you for taking that step.
Enjoy every mile, every view, and every lesson the trail brings. Stay safe, keep pushing forward, and remember you have many people back home cheering you on. Looking forward to following your adventure and seeing you on the other side. You got this, my friend!
Best Mothers Day (belated) today catching up and bonding phone call! So proud of you and love hearing the behind-the -scenes scoop. Some funny stuff going on out there. Thank you for the origin of Whack-A-Mole 🙃🙃🙃
WOW! Incredible adventure! I wish I were YOU....well, until I got hungry or developed a blister.
Wishing you an awesome trip that you'll remember forever.
Stay well & safe and enjoy every refreshing step in nature!
Mary Kay
Information desk at the Courthouse
You are incredible as always.. in the grand scheme of things :’) be safe & enjoy the journey 💛
Hi Justin- I'm thinking about you and sending positive thoughts your way. Can't wait to hear more about your adventures 💚
Keep on whacking on!!!
I just want to say that we are all so proud of you!!! I am living (also one of my dreams) through you. I spoke to my wife and kids about you and they are also in awe (as they should be), Thank you for the shot of adrenaline that you give us by full filling your (our) dreams you are a warrior,
Justin It's great to see you accomplishing your Dreams! We send along the best for you in this adventure!
Hey, we had dinner with you at Plum Orchard a few days back. Just wanted to send you some good wishes as you head up to Maine. Stay well.
Enjoy tracking your progress. Best wishes.
Sup. Waiting to see you hit that 40k PR in steps. Take care of those pinky toes
Looks like rain today on the trail- still looking for a solid 18+ miles out of you. Remember- our founding fathers and the great pioneers that came before us did all of this with 1/4 of the supplies you have.
Hope all is well! My peanut brain can't fathom a 40 mile day, you're doing so great. Hope you're having an equal amount of fun and a good time!
Hey do you remember your first-ever concert? It was James Taylor at Tanglewood🙃 Check out “Carolina in My Mind” classic beautiful song. Can’t you just feel the moonshine? Sending love and good vibes for those pinky toes!
Enjoy the promised land dude it’s going to be a blast
Made it to NC already?! Damn that was quick. Keep up the good work, Whack-a-mole
Keep walking and writing man! Congrats on the journey
Celtics are not the balls
Pick up the pace you’ve been decreasing miles for the last 3 days
Justin so good to hear your voice today! Sounds like you’re meeting some pretty great people out there, so happy for you! One step at a time🙃
Happy Saturday!! I know days of the week don't matter out there on the trail but enjoy your first AT weekend! Love seeing your updates and so inspired by you / proud of you!
Losing track of days on day 3? He's really out there folks....keep it up!
Hey hey hiking Hooper. Looks like the temps have been in your favor thus far. What a blessing to meet up with other hikers along the way who share your passion. Stay safe, enjoy and am looking forward to more adventurous tales. Keeping you in my prayers.
Enjoy the full moon! It should be amazing away from the lights. so excited and happy for your journey. Blessings!!!
Hi Justin,
I just wanted to take a moment to wish you an incredible journey as you set out on the Appalachian Trail. What an amazing opportunity to step away and chase something so meaningful—there’s a lot to be said for actually getting out there and doing it. My “trail experience” is limited to the Oregon Trail on PlayStation 😊 I’ll be cheering you on from afar!
Wishing you safe travels, steady footing, and moments along the way that make it all worthwhile. You’ll be in my prayers for a safe and fulfilling journey!
Take care and enjoy every step,
Michelle
Looks like you kicked it up a notch yesterday!
Heck of a start my friend! Keep up the good work and enjoy a summer Friday today
I'm one of the "cool guys" Justin met early in his hike (I'm sure he was very glad to have posted about our meeting that way). For those of you who have not hiked overnight or have a baseline for comparison, make no mistake - the trail is remarkably challenging (even with only my brief exposure to it). Justin's attempt, whether he is "successful" in reaching Maine or not, is respectable and speaks of his character and willingness to attempt big things elsewhere in life. Well done, sir, and best of luck! (And let us know when you pass Sam and Charlotte! 🙂)
Hopefully you stayed dry last night my dude. Mice?! Helllll no. Outside the tent only please. Sounds like an eventful Night 1. Whack-a-mole ftw! Stay safe brother
Happy hiking, "Hiking Hooper". Enjoy the journey and the beautiful sites along your path.
Looks like the weather is pretty good?
Making progress! Excited to live this journey vicariously through you. I hope you are enjoying life under the stars. You've got this.
Loving the updates thanks for sharing! Looks like ideal weather the next few days 🙃
Woo hoo! Great Numero Uno update! Have a great hike today! Xoxo!
Hey brother hope you have an awesome start on your journey. Your pal Mike
Justin! You're doing it! Love the udpates! We're so excited for you! Continued prayers and sending much Clerk Family Love!!!!
Just the beginning and already sharing some great experiences. Keep the pics coming. Continued safe journey.
Justin, we miss you already! Best of luck on the trail, safe travels, and I look forward to seeing all the pics and following you on this awesome adventure!
Day One in the books! 28k steps?! Wild. Congrats brother. Enjoy the evening and keep an eye out for any (Polar) bears out there.
Woo hoo! Way to go!
Thinking of you starting you big adventure! I'll check back soon🙂
Good luck Justin! Are you sleeping in the trail shelters or a tent? Be safe!
I'm trying to discourage you, so you come back sooner!
https://despair.com/cdn/shop/products/DreamSmall.jpg?v=1501475124
On the other hand, I noticed you dropped the deodorant from your survival supplies, so there's that!
Justin, Safe travels on day one of this epic journey. Thank you for keeping us posted on your progress. Be safe and stay warm! Hair is overrated, I agree. It just slows you down. Haha
Hi Justin! We miss you at work already! It is exciting to see that you're on your way!
Keep an eye out for polar bears.
Justin, just a few hours before you embark on your long-awaited dream. My heart is leaping bounds of excitement for you. Looking forward to seeing what’s down the road.
Enjoy the white activities. Stay hydrated and send fun pics.
Happy hiking! Enjoy your time under the sun and stars and away from the fluorescent lights! Sending best wishes from 315 Court Street !
Only 4 more days to go. You’re practically at the starting line.
What an amazing adventure! We will be with you in spirit! Safe travels Hoops!
So proud of you man! Can’t wait to follow along with you on this journey. ❤️
3 weeks to go! Hope you’re stretching those mile long legs every day lol! We are very impressed and envious too … OH THE PLACES YOU’LL GO!
Ps: seems like south to north is walking uphill 🤣 but your uncle says I’m being ridiculous
Loving the site!
Woof. Test. Woof. 1, 2, 3 test woof.
