It’s been two years to the day since I completed the summit at Mt. Katahdin with “New York Minute.” It was a celebration of not only completing the Appalachian Trail, but of restarting my life. The heart surgery was a life-changing experience and made me much more aware of the important things in life, the things I love, the people I love, and the thrill of just enjoying all that life brings.

Even the difficult and trying situations that life throws at us can be enjoyed. Often, a gray cloud does have a silver lining, although it may not be that obvious at first. Just like the trail itself, when water can be in short supply, the weather frigid, the winds biting and hunger overpowering, the challenges can always teach something.

I like to sit back once in a while and just think about how fortunate I am to still be here. Life is a gift to enjoy, and I’m doing all I can to wring out all the enjoyment I can. I recently returned from a book signing tour up and down the east coast of this great country and I was thrilled to meet so many wonderful and interesting people. It was so enjoyable to hear their many stories, especially concerning the Appalachian Trail and other hikes. It is a community that I am proud to be a member of.

Thanks to all. Thanks for making this the best two years of my life. Hopefully, there will be many more.

Dennis “K1” Blanchard