Sailors, Soldiers, Marines,
Lend me your ears,
for I come not to encourage Marchers,
but to challenge them.
We are still looking for a few good men- and women,
who can come on the march with us, or support us by driving
a support vehicle.
The questions are: want to eat MRE's,
want to primitive camp overnight,
want to go for a long walk; just a stretch of the legs,
want to practice field hygiene, instead of a bath?
Only those who answers those questions to the affirmative need apply.
We are two weeks out Marchers, and if your parents would like to help, they can serve as a driver, and, if they want to spend the money, they can check into a local hotel, and meet us the next morning, reporting for duty after an air-conditioned night's sleep.
I am asking our fellow Marchers, the ones reading this message, to spread the word, get people to read this blog, have them put on a back-pack and get walking. Even if they would like to help but do not want to March, we have jobs for them. Send those kind souls to me, we have work to do.
Saturday I had a one hour walk/job with a little under twenty pounds in the old pack, this was followed by a hike of two hours with pack over thirty five pounds, close to forty. I put in about eleven miles. I took yesterday off to work in the heat on my folks farm, near Brenham. This is still conditioning, just sun conditioning. I am off at 11:30am this morning for a walk/jog, so I can master the heat.
What are you doing to get ready? All Marchers will be required to have a Ranger Buddy, someone who goes every where you do, or for the call of nature, stays far enough away he knows where you are and will not the other Marchers leave without you. Therefore, ask a friend to go with you both to train and to March. In this way, you have the Ranger Buddy of your choice.
Challenge yourself, challenge others, and challenge those you know to go with us in support of the Marching with Marshall; we can use all the help we can get. Oh yeah, its FREE!
Monday, May 31, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
Poem "If" by Rudyard Kipling
| Marchers, I believe this is what a man says to his Son, or what he wants to say to Him. This is what I would like to share with my Son, and those that I share a kindred spirit with. IF.....
|
| |
| IF you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you, If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you, But make allowance for their doubting too; If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or being lied about, don't deal in lies, Or being hated, don't give way to hating, And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise: If you can dream - and not make dreams your master; If you can make one heap of all your winnings If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
|
Get the Lead Out - Train
Marchers,
I would like to let you good folks know, I need all forms returned to me by Sunday, June 6th. If the Orientation Meeting is Saturday, June 5th, this would be a great time to turn your packet in. Remember, there is no cost to you, but your commitment to training and finishing the March. The The location and time of the Orientation Meeting will be announced shortly, so keep coming back to this site for updates.
I have a new method of gauging your training program. If you can hide your wallet in your belly button, you need to get the lead out, this weekend, and train in the morning or evening, but go a long distance to see if you can.
If you can hide your pocket change in your belly button, then go a long distance but do it when you get off work, so you climatize to the heat.
If you can hide your beer can in your belly button, do not plan on going on this march, instead, get off the couch, put down the beer, go see a doctor for clearance, and start a moderate exercise program.
For the young men I have coached, I ask a favor. Get the word out to others, and challenge them to go on this march. Nothing make a person feel better about themselves, not even drugs, can make you feel as good about yourself as when you accomplish something you did not think you could.
For the young men, this will be a gauge which they will use to mark their journey into manhood. They will turn to this whenever there is something hard to do, and think to themselves, "I have done something hard like this before, I can do that hard task which is set before me now."
Seemingly hard task can be made harder by others that question your ability to go the distance. I question no ones ability to March with us, I question their commitment to training. If you are planning to go with us, Marching with Marshall , then get out there and train. In other words for you folks that need motivation, "Get the lead out!" "Move your Butt!" "Get Hiking!" It doesn't take guts to walk, just to finish.
I would like to let you good folks know, I need all forms returned to me by Sunday, June 6th. If the Orientation Meeting is Saturday, June 5th, this would be a great time to turn your packet in. Remember, there is no cost to you, but your commitment to training and finishing the March. The The location and time of the Orientation Meeting will be announced shortly, so keep coming back to this site for updates.
I have a new method of gauging your training program. If you can hide your wallet in your belly button, you need to get the lead out, this weekend, and train in the morning or evening, but go a long distance to see if you can.
If you can hide your pocket change in your belly button, then go a long distance but do it when you get off work, so you climatize to the heat.
If you can hide your beer can in your belly button, do not plan on going on this march, instead, get off the couch, put down the beer, go see a doctor for clearance, and start a moderate exercise program.
For the young men I have coached, I ask a favor. Get the word out to others, and challenge them to go on this march. Nothing make a person feel better about themselves, not even drugs, can make you feel as good about yourself as when you accomplish something you did not think you could.
For the young men, this will be a gauge which they will use to mark their journey into manhood. They will turn to this whenever there is something hard to do, and think to themselves, "I have done something hard like this before, I can do that hard task which is set before me now."
Seemingly hard task can be made harder by others that question your ability to go the distance. I question no ones ability to March with us, I question their commitment to training. If you are planning to go with us, Marching with Marshall , then get out there and train. In other words for you folks that need motivation, "Get the lead out!" "Move your Butt!" "Get Hiking!" It doesn't take guts to walk, just to finish.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
June 5th Oreintation Meeting
Marchers,
Stay tuned for the time, and location announcement concerning an Orientation Meeting. This will be a great time for you to meet other Marchers, stretch your hiking leg, talk about the course, and gain an understanding about what to pack and how to pack it.
Your long walk is coming up this weekend. Make it about three hours if possible, keep the pack to about twenty pounds, and take along some tunes, or if you are like me, find "Click and Clack the Tap'it Brothers", or "Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me", and get moving. If you do not have time, break the wlak in half and do one in the morning and one in the evening.
Borrowing a line from the most adventurous man on TV, "Stay thirsty my friends", keep drinking water, beside helping your body recover, it is good for the complexion- if you are into that.
Do not train in vain- train to finish the race, then you can train to win.
Stay tuned for the time, and location announcement concerning an Orientation Meeting. This will be a great time for you to meet other Marchers, stretch your hiking leg, talk about the course, and gain an understanding about what to pack and how to pack it.
Your long walk is coming up this weekend. Make it about three hours if possible, keep the pack to about twenty pounds, and take along some tunes, or if you are like me, find "Click and Clack the Tap'it Brothers", or "Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me", and get moving. If you do not have time, break the wlak in half and do one in the morning and one in the evening.
Borrowing a line from the most adventurous man on TV, "Stay thirsty my friends", keep drinking water, beside helping your body recover, it is good for the complexion- if you are into that.
Do not train in vain- train to finish the race, then you can train to win.
Hard, Hot and Heavy: The Hike West and not my hiking boots
Marchers,
I hit the road yesterday with a three minute run, two minute walk rotation, and lightened my pack load to about 18 lbs. I had an appointment, and could only go a bit over an hour, but I enjoyed the moment: the one where I scared the girl sun bathing in her back yard, and the moment where the dog took off the one of the picket of the fence with his head, and I found a bit more speed in my old vascular challenged legs, as I wobbled away.
After my meeting, I put about 40 lbs back in the pack, and hit the street for some cement ground-pounding. I felt it in my feet, and caution you young people to use grass as much as possible in your training. I have not decided what my training to today, but I am thinking about a two hour walk on the levee, with a moderately weighted pack. But the man in me wants to find a hill and charge it, then again I live in Texas...I am safe from myself.
I have posted the course of the march here. It is not too much different then the one we had before, but jack and I have now seen most of the course and are comfortable with the looks on the ground. There will be mid-point breaks on each day's March, but these are being placed into the March for the sake of head counts and water issues.
Here is how the course shakes down:
Starting at Double Lake and the Lone Star Trail Primitive Camp #1, we will step off at 0800, with a mid- point break at Evergreen, the intersection of St. Hwy 150 and FM 945.
Then we will proceed up to Big Woods Hunter Camp for our first Rest Point (the LSHT just graces the southern side of FSR202* and from there , we follow FSR 202 NW for a short distance until we come upon the Big Woods Hunter Camp which will be located on the north side of the road.
Sunday morning we will step off at 0700, and head to Four Notch, near FSR 213 [Four Notch area is directly across from the LSHT Trailhead on Four Notch Road located near the intersection of FSR 213 and Four Notch Road (about 2.3 miles southeast on Four Notch Road from the intersection of FM 2296 and Four Notch Road)]
We will then proceed to Huntsville St. Park, our Rest Point #2, where we will be fed and watered by the Walker County COP, and Amt. Ham Radio Group, arriving about 1700 hours.
Monday morning we will step off at 0700, and head south to the Stubblefield Recreation Area FSR 215, arriving there about 1300-1400 hours, for a mid-point break.
Then we will head south to Kelly's Pond, Rest Point #3 on FSR 271, ETA 1630 hours.
The final leg of the march will begin Tuesday morning at 0700 hours, as we step off in a westerly direction headed towards FSR 219 and the pick up point, covering about 12 miles, ETA 1230 hours.
The course is set, but there may well be a few changes, but they will be post as soon as possible before the March.
For you good people training; happy motoring!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Good Help, Not so Hard to find in Walker County
Marchers,
David Anderson of the WCSO, Citizen on Patrol, has contacted us and will support our march by hosting a dinner Sunday evening at Huntsville St. Park, and a pray service to follow for fellowship. I had hoped we might have some fellowship each evening, and this would be a great way to end the second day of the March- maybe allowing some to ask for some divine help to finish the March; just kidding Mom's.
Laurie Boudreaux of Cargill meats has offered us luncheon meat to make sandwiches, and maybe even assemble them for distribution to the Marchers. This would probable be the first night, or the third, depending on her availability.
Jason Dyches of the Lion's Club in Huntsville, has thrown another bone our way. The Club has voted to give us $250 for expenses, with possible matching funds from a district office. This is great news and will allow us to get gasoline for our support staff, and more maps.
What we are in short supply of is, men or women who are EMT certified, or medics/corpsmen to go with us the March, and support our charges, as they go head long into the not so wild wilderness of the National Forest. If you, the reader, knows any hard charging men or women who would willingly donate a day, or more to helping us make it through the woods without injury, than please send them my way. Firemen on site would be a great comfort to us, even if they cannot make the March- meals and all the water you want to drink included.
The type of injures we can expect on the March are blisters, rashes, raw areas, insect bites, and turned ankles or knees. The old saying on the bumper sticker of the car, when I left the USMC was, "The Marine already have a few good men- Navy Corpsmen". I need some of you Gents to "lock and load", and help us out, if you can. Should a few of the Armies finest- the Medics- want to go, I can now make a comparison with wise eyes, and not camouflaged by the uniform I wore some years ago.
Marchers and Friends of the March, pass this information on to interested parties and tell them to contact Mac McStravick at mmcstravick@ces-richmond.org or my cell 281-857-4038. Remeber, good help is not so hard to find in Walker County, this includes Joe Connell, Jim Hurley , David Anderson, and Jason Dyches of the Huntsville Lion's Club.
Head 'em up, we're moving out.
David Anderson of the WCSO, Citizen on Patrol, has contacted us and will support our march by hosting a dinner Sunday evening at Huntsville St. Park, and a pray service to follow for fellowship. I had hoped we might have some fellowship each evening, and this would be a great way to end the second day of the March- maybe allowing some to ask for some divine help to finish the March; just kidding Mom's.
Laurie Boudreaux of Cargill meats has offered us luncheon meat to make sandwiches, and maybe even assemble them for distribution to the Marchers. This would probable be the first night, or the third, depending on her availability.
Jason Dyches of the Lion's Club in Huntsville, has thrown another bone our way. The Club has voted to give us $250 for expenses, with possible matching funds from a district office. This is great news and will allow us to get gasoline for our support staff, and more maps.
What we are in short supply of is, men or women who are EMT certified, or medics/corpsmen to go with us the March, and support our charges, as they go head long into the not so wild wilderness of the National Forest. If you, the reader, knows any hard charging men or women who would willingly donate a day, or more to helping us make it through the woods without injury, than please send them my way. Firemen on site would be a great comfort to us, even if they cannot make the March- meals and all the water you want to drink included.
The type of injures we can expect on the March are blisters, rashes, raw areas, insect bites, and turned ankles or knees. The old saying on the bumper sticker of the car, when I left the USMC was, "The Marine already have a few good men- Navy Corpsmen". I need some of you Gents to "lock and load", and help us out, if you can. Should a few of the Armies finest- the Medics- want to go, I can now make a comparison with wise eyes, and not camouflaged by the uniform I wore some years ago.
Marchers and Friends of the March, pass this information on to interested parties and tell them to contact Mac McStravick at mmcstravick@ces-richmond.org or my cell 281-857-4038. Remeber, good help is not so hard to find in Walker County, this includes Joe Connell, Jim Hurley , David Anderson, and Jason Dyches of the Huntsville Lion's Club.
Head 'em up, we're moving out.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
You don't know Jack; Now, I do - Sat. June 5th Orientation Meeting
Marchers,
Updates of the course are coming, along with some new checkpoints. These will be used by the support team, as they try and keep a head count, and a hydrated group of young people moving.
I had the pleasure of picking up Addison's Dad in my white pick-up truck, and asending upon the Sam Houston National Forest from the back door of Richards, Texas. We felt comforted by the small, old town feel of Richards, but decided there was not enough room for our Marchers to be picked up, and decided on the parking area about 100 yards south down FSR 219, off of State Highway 149.
Working backwards, we visited Kelly's Pond, and found it to be an excellent camp site, with a commode, trash facilities, picnic tables, and a large open area. The pond was small, but fishable, I think. Stubblefield Recreation Area, was a short distance by car, and had Jack thrown his Fredrickberg peach pit ten times, we might have reached the Stubblefield Area just as quickly- well, sort of.
We decided this would be a good intermediate break point for the lads. The moseys- mosquitios- sharply visited me about ten times as we walked along the foot path of the bridge to pick up the trail again. WEAR DEET, possible a 90 plus factor would be good, but I felt a bit like one the the Blue Bell cows out there in the field , what with the moseys looking like humans and all those people wanting to sample my wares.
Jack was a pleasant guest to have ride along in my dirty old truck. We had a nice visit and I got to hear a few more stories about the Marshall family and the journey they have had so far. He also bought my lunch, and that goes a long way to making me a fast friend. Problem was, he was slower eater then I, and had to answer my questions as he chewed. I eat like I coach, attack, attack, attack. Now, that is my motto.
And Marchers, that better be your motto, as you are running out of time training for this hike. This is not a pick up basketball game where you play for two hours, feel tired but invigorated. This is an exhausting hike on the first day, but one full of pride to have finished it for the day. The second day you will be curing the originator of the march, me, and will keep doing so, until you mind drifts away some time about three hours into the second day's march. The third day you will be curing yourself, and the last day of the hike you will be curing your Folks for having the audacity to let you go on this dangerous, health breaking trek. Cursing them until you see their smiling faces waiting for you at the Pick up Point, FSR 219, cursing yourself, until you see how happy you have made Addison, and how proud you are of yourself you were apart of the group, the team that finished the Marching with Marshall.
Jack, I could not have asked for a better traveling companion. Thanks for navigating; I guess you now feel sorry for my wife. Thanks anyways.
Bring a walking stick, this can help keep you balanced and is useful as a weapon or tool. No, Mom, we will not be playing Little John and Robin in the forest, I just want to keep the snakes at bay.
Train, Men, Train
Updates of the course are coming, along with some new checkpoints. These will be used by the support team, as they try and keep a head count, and a hydrated group of young people moving.
I had the pleasure of picking up Addison's Dad in my white pick-up truck, and asending upon the Sam Houston National Forest from the back door of Richards, Texas. We felt comforted by the small, old town feel of Richards, but decided there was not enough room for our Marchers to be picked up, and decided on the parking area about 100 yards south down FSR 219, off of State Highway 149.
Working backwards, we visited Kelly's Pond, and found it to be an excellent camp site, with a commode, trash facilities, picnic tables, and a large open area. The pond was small, but fishable, I think. Stubblefield Recreation Area, was a short distance by car, and had Jack thrown his Fredrickberg peach pit ten times, we might have reached the Stubblefield Area just as quickly- well, sort of.
We decided this would be a good intermediate break point for the lads. The moseys- mosquitios- sharply visited me about ten times as we walked along the foot path of the bridge to pick up the trail again. WEAR DEET, possible a 90 plus factor would be good, but I felt a bit like one the the Blue Bell cows out there in the field , what with the moseys looking like humans and all those people wanting to sample my wares.
Jack was a pleasant guest to have ride along in my dirty old truck. We had a nice visit and I got to hear a few more stories about the Marshall family and the journey they have had so far. He also bought my lunch, and that goes a long way to making me a fast friend. Problem was, he was slower eater then I, and had to answer my questions as he chewed. I eat like I coach, attack, attack, attack. Now, that is my motto.
And Marchers, that better be your motto, as you are running out of time training for this hike. This is not a pick up basketball game where you play for two hours, feel tired but invigorated. This is an exhausting hike on the first day, but one full of pride to have finished it for the day. The second day you will be curing the originator of the march, me, and will keep doing so, until you mind drifts away some time about three hours into the second day's march. The third day you will be curing yourself, and the last day of the hike you will be curing your Folks for having the audacity to let you go on this dangerous, health breaking trek. Cursing them until you see their smiling faces waiting for you at the Pick up Point, FSR 219, cursing yourself, until you see how happy you have made Addison, and how proud you are of yourself you were apart of the group, the team that finished the Marching with Marshall.
Jack, I could not have asked for a better traveling companion. Thanks for navigating; I guess you now feel sorry for my wife. Thanks anyways.
Bring a walking stick, this can help keep you balanced and is useful as a weapon or tool. No, Mom, we will not be playing Little John and Robin in the forest, I just want to keep the snakes at bay.
Train, Men, Train
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Saturday in the Park
Marchers,
Took the day off on Friday because of these bad pens(legs), only to receive my new lightweight Merrill hiking boots. Nice style, subdued color, medium ankle support= just right. I had bought them along with Kodiack socks, and took a two and a half hour stroll along the levee and into the near by park, for a second dosing of water. Glad I had the water, but felt better after my purchase of the boots and socks; my feet felt less fatigued, and I did not have any hot spots generated on the hike. I would recommend these boots, and the price was not too bad; on sale at The Sportsmen's Guide for about $89, or maybe I used a coupon.
Your training needs to ratchet itself up to make each days hike. I had a bit of a day dream as I took to the by-ways this morning on my hike, and thought to share a dream or two.
What makes old men solemn and young men strive, is the idea of being a man; a person of strength and a physical appetite for the challenge. What men in their twenties through forties have is that strength and an appetite for rough and tumble play. Young men want it, lift weights and take supplements to gain it, while the old men start to slow down and mourn the loss of the physique and the strength.
I am nearing the solemn time of my life, but I have had a greta life. I was raised by a fine family, I joined a military force that required pride and strength, I worked for some fine men and ladies, and I have a wonderful family. I am now a grandfather, and the day will come when I will need a walker, but that time is not know. When these older men come through the time of physical disappointment, they emerge as guides and leaders for others. They become the story teller; the collective wisdom of their time, of their families.
I want Addison to have this same opportunity, I wan him to reach the point where the younger men at the family gatherings, sit around him and listen to his wisdom; to be honored by your own kind. That is my wish. That is why I am marching; that and I need an excuse to do something extreme physical before I have to sit at the center of the fire telling stories. I'm not ready yet, are you? You come too!
"Ready, Mr. Nightlinger?"
"Born ready, Mr. Anderson" The Cowboys- John Wayne (Young men should see this movie)
"Ready, Addison?"
"Born ready, Coach Mac" That is the type of man he is
"You Ready , Marchers?"
"You better be, this ain't no walk in your momma's park, Cowboy: train, train, train!
Took the day off on Friday because of these bad pens(legs), only to receive my new lightweight Merrill hiking boots. Nice style, subdued color, medium ankle support= just right. I had bought them along with Kodiack socks, and took a two and a half hour stroll along the levee and into the near by park, for a second dosing of water. Glad I had the water, but felt better after my purchase of the boots and socks; my feet felt less fatigued, and I did not have any hot spots generated on the hike. I would recommend these boots, and the price was not too bad; on sale at The Sportsmen's Guide for about $89, or maybe I used a coupon.
Your training needs to ratchet itself up to make each days hike. I had a bit of a day dream as I took to the by-ways this morning on my hike, and thought to share a dream or two.
What makes old men solemn and young men strive, is the idea of being a man; a person of strength and a physical appetite for the challenge. What men in their twenties through forties have is that strength and an appetite for rough and tumble play. Young men want it, lift weights and take supplements to gain it, while the old men start to slow down and mourn the loss of the physique and the strength.
I am nearing the solemn time of my life, but I have had a greta life. I was raised by a fine family, I joined a military force that required pride and strength, I worked for some fine men and ladies, and I have a wonderful family. I am now a grandfather, and the day will come when I will need a walker, but that time is not know. When these older men come through the time of physical disappointment, they emerge as guides and leaders for others. They become the story teller; the collective wisdom of their time, of their families.
I want Addison to have this same opportunity, I wan him to reach the point where the younger men at the family gatherings, sit around him and listen to his wisdom; to be honored by your own kind. That is my wish. That is why I am marching; that and I need an excuse to do something extreme physical before I have to sit at the center of the fire telling stories. I'm not ready yet, are you? You come too!
"Ready, Mr. Nightlinger?"
"Born ready, Mr. Anderson" The Cowboys- John Wayne (Young men should see this movie)
"Ready, Addison?"
"Born ready, Coach Mac" That is the type of man he is
"You Ready , Marchers?"
"You better be, this ain't no walk in your momma's park, Cowboy: train, train, train!
Friday, May 21, 2010
Up your traning guide this week; drink water
Marchers,
It is time to prepare for your long walk this weekend; try it with the pack about twenty pounds(20 lbs). About a two hour walk would be a good distance to shoot for. Drink water before the hike, drink a bit on the hike, and drink more when you are finished.
Jack Marshall and I should be headed to the Sam Houston National Forrest for a look-see at the course this Monday. Tiffany Williams will be our contact there with the Park Ranger's office.
Though we have organized a course through the use of a map, and a book by Karen Somer concerning the Lone Star Hiking Trail, this will be the look on the ground at our purposed endurance march.
Jason Dyches of the Lion's Club in Huntsville has agreed to give us 50 cases of water to make the march. The offer hit us at the right time, for we have lost use of the Army's water tank truck, and we would not want the lads to be thirsty. Kroger's in Brazos Center in Richmond has kindly offered us 10 cases of water also. Hopefully, with these offers of water, we have the issue of water taken care of.
Please take a moment to send in your registration and wavier forms to that we have an accounting of the number of people going. The sooner the better as spots will be limited to a first come basis.
Keep those boots walking; if you have not got a pair of boots yet, get them! You need to break them in.
It is time to prepare for your long walk this weekend; try it with the pack about twenty pounds(20 lbs). About a two hour walk would be a good distance to shoot for. Drink water before the hike, drink a bit on the hike, and drink more when you are finished.
Jack Marshall and I should be headed to the Sam Houston National Forrest for a look-see at the course this Monday. Tiffany Williams will be our contact there with the Park Ranger's office.
Though we have organized a course through the use of a map, and a book by Karen Somer concerning the Lone Star Hiking Trail, this will be the look on the ground at our purposed endurance march.
Jason Dyches of the Lion's Club in Huntsville has agreed to give us 50 cases of water to make the march. The offer hit us at the right time, for we have lost use of the Army's water tank truck, and we would not want the lads to be thirsty. Kroger's in Brazos Center in Richmond has kindly offered us 10 cases of water also. Hopefully, with these offers of water, we have the issue of water taken care of.
Please take a moment to send in your registration and wavier forms to that we have an accounting of the number of people going. The sooner the better as spots will be limited to a first come basis.
Keep those boots walking; if you have not got a pair of boots yet, get them! You need to break them in.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
We Want YOU! We Need YOU!
We are looking for a few good folks to help at our daily rest points for refueling, replenishing the water supply and perhaps helping provide a decent meal. We would ask that you meet us in the late afternoon/evening on the designated day, time to be coordinated a little closer to the hike.
We could use help on the following days:
Day 1: Rest Point Big Woods Hunter's Camp(Park Roads 207 and 202) on June 12th
Camp Set up
EMT
Water Re-supply
Dinner Prep and Service
Camp Take Down
Camp Set up
EMT
Water Re-supply
Dinner Prep and Service
Camp Take Down
Day 2: Huntsville St. Park, Parking Lot #7 on June 13th
Camp Set-up
EMT
Water Re-supply
Dinner Prep and Service
Camp Take Down
Camp Set-up
EMT
Water Re-supply
Dinner Prep and Service
Camp Take Down
Day 3: Kelly's Pond in the Lake Conroe area on June 14th at
Camp Set-up
EMT
Water Re-supply
Dinner Prep and Service
Camp Take Down
Camp Set-up
EMT
Water Re-supply
Dinner Prep and Service
Camp Take Down
Please contact me if you are interested in helping! mmcstravick@ces-richmond.org
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Packing List: marching with Marshall
Items to pack:(you will need your own pack)
1. Extra pants and shirt- No cotton! -pants should have a mesh liner and be able to use for swimming and dry quickly
2. Light rain jacket and pants- if desired, or Poncho
3. Four(4) pairs of wool hiking socks- No cotton! (Smart Wool preferable)
Four(4) pairs of thin polyester liner socks to be worn under the wool socks.
4. Bug spray or lotion
5. Sun tan lotion- to be donated
6. Hygiene bag
7. Soap in container
8 Tooth brush and paste
9. Small bottle of powder
10. Skin lube or Vaseline- friction areas
11. First aide kit and moleskin for blisters
12. Knife and/or multi-use camp tool
13. Three canteens or 32 oz. wide mouth nalgene bottles, or Camel Back hydration unit
Plan on daily water consumption of one to two gallons. Marines have loaned us about 40 Camel Backs for the march; you do not need to buy one, if you register early.
14. Snacks: energy bars, Carb Goo, chocolate bars, or trail mix
15. Hat or Cap
16. Ground cover- tarp, rubber mat, or insulation mat
17. Sheet, light blanket, or sleeping bag
18. Towel or bandanna- if desired
19. Flash light- headlamp preferable with extra batteries
20. Light tent - if desired
21. Binding cord- Para-cord is fine
22. Four(4) or five(5) small trash bags
23. Extra one(1) gallon heavy-duty freezer bag, zip lock bag
24. Whistle
25. Water filter or other method of water purification
26. Matches- storm proof, or a lighter
27. Compass and/or GPS devise
28. Food storage bag of nylon or poly material, where all food and perishables will be stored
each night - Bear Bag
29. Small roll of toilet paper or biodegradable wipes- if desired
30. Great attitude and enthusiasm, with a commitment to finish.
Back pack:
This should weigh no more then twenty-five pounds(25 lbs.). All clothing items should be compressed and stored in one (1) gallon heavy duty, zip locking, freezer bag. Back packs will be checked before Saturday morning step-off. Plan to carry all items you are brining. Leave No Trace- Pack it in, pack it out, is the rule of the march. This includes cat holes for necessities. Leave each area better than you found it. All trash will be packed out in trash bags.
1. Extra pants and shirt- No cotton! -pants should have a mesh liner and be able to use for swimming and dry quickly
2. Light rain jacket and pants- if desired, or Poncho
3. Four(4) pairs of wool hiking socks- No cotton! (Smart Wool preferable)
Four(4) pairs of thin polyester liner socks to be worn under the wool socks.
4. Bug spray or lotion
5. Sun tan lotion- to be donated
6. Hygiene bag
7. Soap in container
8 Tooth brush and paste
9. Small bottle of powder
10. Skin lube or Vaseline- friction areas
11. First aide kit and moleskin for blisters
12. Knife and/or multi-use camp tool
13. Three canteens or 32 oz. wide mouth nalgene bottles, or Camel Back hydration unit
Plan on daily water consumption of one to two gallons. Marines have loaned us about 40 Camel Backs for the march; you do not need to buy one, if you register early.
14. Snacks: energy bars, Carb Goo, chocolate bars, or trail mix
15. Hat or Cap
16. Ground cover- tarp, rubber mat, or insulation mat
17. Sheet, light blanket, or sleeping bag
18. Towel or bandanna- if desired
19. Flash light- headlamp preferable with extra batteries
20. Light tent - if desired
21. Binding cord- Para-cord is fine
22. Four(4) or five(5) small trash bags
23. Extra one(1) gallon heavy-duty freezer bag, zip lock bag
24. Whistle
25. Water filter or other method of water purification
26. Matches- storm proof, or a lighter
27. Compass and/or GPS devise
28. Food storage bag of nylon or poly material, where all food and perishables will be stored
each night - Bear Bag
29. Small roll of toilet paper or biodegradable wipes- if desired
30. Great attitude and enthusiasm, with a commitment to finish.
Back pack:
This should weigh no more then twenty-five pounds(25 lbs.). All clothing items should be compressed and stored in one (1) gallon heavy duty, zip locking, freezer bag. Back packs will be checked before Saturday morning step-off. Plan to carry all items you are brining. Leave No Trace- Pack it in, pack it out, is the rule of the march. This includes cat holes for necessities. Leave each area better than you found it. All trash will be packed out in trash bags.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
A Mother's Love
Marchers,
I have had a few questions concerning the march from interested parties, notable mothers of marchers. So, as I walked the mower around the yard yesterday, twenty years of coaching, and twenty plus years of fathering came back to haunt me.
Men look at their sons, and want him to be able to take care of himself on his own. Generally, when a boy puts himself in a uncertain situation, a father looks at him to see how he takes care of it, then he will step in, if needed. In this way, the father knows that the son can take care of himself, and takes pride in the way he has raised the young man.
On the other hand, moms seem to have this inherent nature to nurture their young. They want to help their young, no matter the issue, thereby showing their love by care and protection.
What then develops is a Mom/ Dad issue, where the mom looks at the dad as lazy for observing the son's reaction to an issue and not doing anything about it, and the dad looks at the mom as too involved, too modle coddle as she runs interference for the son, shaming and damning others involved, to demonstrate her unique love.
This is a general thought of the sexes, and not an all the time occurrence. To use an absurd dramatization, lets us look at a male child with constipation issues. A mother will stand there and feel sympathy and empathy for the child, hurting for him as he strains, wanting the father to do something; this is her care nature. A father, on the other hand will stay in another room, waiting to hear the magic noise of success, and feeling almost proud when the lad makes his deposit, satisfied by the fact, the lad can make it on his own- he does not need anyone. This is his care nature. What happens in the communication between the two parents is that the mom sees the dad as useless, lazy and non-caring; the dad sees the mom as overbearing, too involved, and overly sensitive.
What I am trying to say is this: Mothers, do not worry about your son, if he signed up, then he is willing to handle nature and the physical discomfort of the march. Fathers do not worry about your son on this march. He will be feed, watered, encouraged and tested; this is what we want of our sons, to do something tough, and finish the mark. We, as men, expect nothing less form him.
Therefore, Mothers, be more concerned if your son signs up, and does not finish the march because it is too hot, too hard, or too exhausting; your husband will want to kick him right in the seat of his new dress.
OK, humor aside, any young man with a good pair of boots, plenty of water, 3,000 calories a day of food (One MRE has 3,000 calories only), and a small to medium back pack can make these hikes. It is mind over matter; if you questions his ability to make these hikes at 15, then you are questioning his youthful manhood, you are questioning his father's upbringing, you are questioning the man he will become. Question less, encourage more. Young men need to be encouraged and respected for their conduct and strength, not given a medal or a reward for participation.
If you are worried about your young man, adapt a Rest Point during the march. In this way, you can keep an eye on him, while providing the other marchers a meal.
Marchers: Train, train, train- for those who make it, they will receive a smile from their fathers, and a grudging respect for their role as young men. That young marchers, in time, will be far more valuable then that chrome plated plastic and wood in the attic. For this is what young men strive for; the respect of older men, and the ability to know, I can do anything I put my mind too.
"Saddle up, we're moving out!"
I have had a few questions concerning the march from interested parties, notable mothers of marchers. So, as I walked the mower around the yard yesterday, twenty years of coaching, and twenty plus years of fathering came back to haunt me.
Men look at their sons, and want him to be able to take care of himself on his own. Generally, when a boy puts himself in a uncertain situation, a father looks at him to see how he takes care of it, then he will step in, if needed. In this way, the father knows that the son can take care of himself, and takes pride in the way he has raised the young man.
On the other hand, moms seem to have this inherent nature to nurture their young. They want to help their young, no matter the issue, thereby showing their love by care and protection.
What then develops is a Mom/ Dad issue, where the mom looks at the dad as lazy for observing the son's reaction to an issue and not doing anything about it, and the dad looks at the mom as too involved, too modle coddle as she runs interference for the son, shaming and damning others involved, to demonstrate her unique love.
This is a general thought of the sexes, and not an all the time occurrence. To use an absurd dramatization, lets us look at a male child with constipation issues. A mother will stand there and feel sympathy and empathy for the child, hurting for him as he strains, wanting the father to do something; this is her care nature. A father, on the other hand will stay in another room, waiting to hear the magic noise of success, and feeling almost proud when the lad makes his deposit, satisfied by the fact, the lad can make it on his own- he does not need anyone. This is his care nature. What happens in the communication between the two parents is that the mom sees the dad as useless, lazy and non-caring; the dad sees the mom as overbearing, too involved, and overly sensitive.
What I am trying to say is this: Mothers, do not worry about your son, if he signed up, then he is willing to handle nature and the physical discomfort of the march. Fathers do not worry about your son on this march. He will be feed, watered, encouraged and tested; this is what we want of our sons, to do something tough, and finish the mark. We, as men, expect nothing less form him.
Therefore, Mothers, be more concerned if your son signs up, and does not finish the march because it is too hot, too hard, or too exhausting; your husband will want to kick him right in the seat of his new dress.
OK, humor aside, any young man with a good pair of boots, plenty of water, 3,000 calories a day of food (One MRE has 3,000 calories only), and a small to medium back pack can make these hikes. It is mind over matter; if you questions his ability to make these hikes at 15, then you are questioning his youthful manhood, you are questioning his father's upbringing, you are questioning the man he will become. Question less, encourage more. Young men need to be encouraged and respected for their conduct and strength, not given a medal or a reward for participation.
If you are worried about your young man, adapt a Rest Point during the march. In this way, you can keep an eye on him, while providing the other marchers a meal.
Marchers: Train, train, train- for those who make it, they will receive a smile from their fathers, and a grudging respect for their role as young men. That young marchers, in time, will be far more valuable then that chrome plated plastic and wood in the attic. For this is what young men strive for; the respect of older men, and the ability to know, I can do anything I put my mind too.
"Saddle up, we're moving out!"
Monday, May 17, 2010
These Boots Were Made For Walking
Marchers,
I saved up my dimes and just bought a pair of Merrell light weight hikers, for my tired old feet. They are Gore-Tex, and therefore water proof, but the balls of my feet have been burning, as I training on more hard top streets, then fields. There are many brands of hiking boots, but for our purposes we might want to use light weight hikers, as the terrain is not too tough, and the going will put quite a few miles on the "ole dogs".
Other quality hikers include: Danner, Vasque, Timberland, Montrail , Asolo, and many others. Cheaper brands include: New Balance, Converse, Hi Tech, Rocky and others. The sporting goods store near you will sell a variety of boots, just take them off the shelf for a spin on the carpet before you buy. You will need room for your feet to swell, so if you feel a hot spot, pressure point when you are just trying them on, it is a good bet you will have trouble later on. Remember ,the distance we have to go will be further then you may have gone before. Some stores sell all-terrian shoes, which are not too bad on the feet on an easy path, but if you plan to hike again, spend the money and buy a good pair.
Military boots are a good choice, but they are made for general purposes, and may not feel as comfortable as your sneakers; they are not suppose to be, you have to break them in. Breaking in a pair of boots takes time and distance of wear. Do not buy a pair of boots right before the hike, and wear them out of the box on the first day. You are asking for trouble, and trouble comes at a price of raised pain. Buy your boots early, and wear them on walks around the neighborhood, if you have not started training yet.
If you have not started training yet, get on with it! You do not have to be a Road Warrior, and join Mad Max Beyond the Thunder Doom, you just have to get out side, toss on the old pack, and fell the bite of the back pack's straps to get the body in hiking shape.
As the Duke said, " Saddle up, we're moving out".
I saved up my dimes and just bought a pair of Merrell light weight hikers, for my tired old feet. They are Gore-Tex, and therefore water proof, but the balls of my feet have been burning, as I training on more hard top streets, then fields. There are many brands of hiking boots, but for our purposes we might want to use light weight hikers, as the terrain is not too tough, and the going will put quite a few miles on the "ole dogs".
Other quality hikers include: Danner, Vasque, Timberland, Montrail , Asolo, and many others. Cheaper brands include: New Balance, Converse, Hi Tech, Rocky and others. The sporting goods store near you will sell a variety of boots, just take them off the shelf for a spin on the carpet before you buy. You will need room for your feet to swell, so if you feel a hot spot, pressure point when you are just trying them on, it is a good bet you will have trouble later on. Remember ,the distance we have to go will be further then you may have gone before. Some stores sell all-terrian shoes, which are not too bad on the feet on an easy path, but if you plan to hike again, spend the money and buy a good pair.
Military boots are a good choice, but they are made for general purposes, and may not feel as comfortable as your sneakers; they are not suppose to be, you have to break them in. Breaking in a pair of boots takes time and distance of wear. Do not buy a pair of boots right before the hike, and wear them out of the box on the first day. You are asking for trouble, and trouble comes at a price of raised pain. Buy your boots early, and wear them on walks around the neighborhood, if you have not started training yet.
If you have not started training yet, get on with it! You do not have to be a Road Warrior, and join Mad Max Beyond the Thunder Doom, you just have to get out side, toss on the old pack, and fell the bite of the back pack's straps to get the body in hiking shape.
As the Duke said, " Saddle up, we're moving out".
"You like me, right now, you like me!"
We are now on facebook and would love for you to "like us" to help spread the word about our upcoming hike, Marching with Marshall. Just follow the link to find us...http://www.facebook.com/pages/Marching-with-Marshall/110213039022686
The Course: Start, stop and the Inbetweens.
Marchers,
We will confirm with the Park Ranger today, but we have our course roughed out, with rest points selected. The total distance with be just short of 80 miles, but by walking to one of the bathroom near a camp site we can pick up the extra mileage, and still claim the 80 miles.
The stepping off point is Double lake Camping area, the first Rest Point is the intersection of Park Roads 207 and PR 202 near the Big Woods Hunter's Camp area, the second Rest Point is Huntsville State Park ,Parking Lot #7, the last Rest Point is Kelly's Pond, near the Stubblefield Camping area of Lake Conroe, while the terminus is Richard, Texas.
The thinking is, there will be a starting point and an ending point, instead of a loop. Parents can drop off at Doublefield, and pick up at Richard, Texas. Should a participant want to only march for two days, he can step off on Saturday morning, and be picked up on Sunday afternoon in Huntsville State Park. We will get maps and location on this site, so that all areas can be found more easily then with a state road map.
Later this week, organizers will head up North to the trail and make observations of the sites, along with pictures of the area. These too will be included on this site so that we can share the journey with those who cannot go or other interested parties.
Let's head 'em up, and move 'em out. We have the course.
We will confirm with the Park Ranger today, but we have our course roughed out, with rest points selected. The total distance with be just short of 80 miles, but by walking to one of the bathroom near a camp site we can pick up the extra mileage, and still claim the 80 miles.
The stepping off point is Double lake Camping area, the first Rest Point is the intersection of Park Roads 207 and PR 202 near the Big Woods Hunter's Camp area, the second Rest Point is Huntsville State Park ,Parking Lot #7, the last Rest Point is Kelly's Pond, near the Stubblefield Camping area of Lake Conroe, while the terminus is Richard, Texas.
The thinking is, there will be a starting point and an ending point, instead of a loop. Parents can drop off at Doublefield, and pick up at Richard, Texas. Should a participant want to only march for two days, he can step off on Saturday morning, and be picked up on Sunday afternoon in Huntsville State Park. We will get maps and location on this site, so that all areas can be found more easily then with a state road map.
Later this week, organizers will head up North to the trail and make observations of the sites, along with pictures of the area. These too will be included on this site so that we can share the journey with those who cannot go or other interested parties.
Let's head 'em up, and move 'em out. We have the course.
Honed
" As iron sharpens iron, one man sharpens another" Proverbs 27:17
I spent a few hours with Addison's Dad yesterday afternoon, discussing the course of the march: the beginning point, the end point, and the various rest points along the way. He is as fine a man as is his son; you can see by both parents the type man Addison has become. Addison and I spent about fifteen minutes together, looking over the map and making comments. He is a man in the spring of his youth, I am meeting my fall.
As I left his house, I began to question why is his cure so important to me. He is not my son, yet he is; he is not my friend, yet he is; he is not my peer, yet he is. He is the type of young man I would want to be, if I had to live my life over again. He has a quiet strength, yet he is not afraid to let his thoughts known. He has a sense of humor, but he does not inflict harm. He can lead, but he knows how to follow orders. He does not seek your sympathy, but he will get your respect. That is the type of man you want to work for; that is the type of man you strive to be.
When coach, I try to read eyes; if you see understanding in the eyes of your men, understanding without fear, they will go where you lead them. If there is a lack of understanding, and or fear, they can go nowhere. They cannot lead or follow, they are paralyzed.
That is what my eyes must reflect when looked into by God; I have been paralyzed by my current life. I have been afraid to go one way, and fearful to go the other. I never had to worry about this with Addison, when I looked into his eyes there was trust and understanding. I think, in some way, I was sharpening him.
He does not know it, but now Addison is sharpening me. His iron, his strength, through this ordeal, is sharpening me. By this march, now it is my turn to sharpen him, if only in a small way. He will not know the keen edge he has honed on me, nor will I know what type of edge I have helped him shape, but based on the time spent with his Dad yesterday, Addison is already razor sharp; "as iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another".
I spent a few hours with Addison's Dad yesterday afternoon, discussing the course of the march: the beginning point, the end point, and the various rest points along the way. He is as fine a man as is his son; you can see by both parents the type man Addison has become. Addison and I spent about fifteen minutes together, looking over the map and making comments. He is a man in the spring of his youth, I am meeting my fall.
As I left his house, I began to question why is his cure so important to me. He is not my son, yet he is; he is not my friend, yet he is; he is not my peer, yet he is. He is the type of young man I would want to be, if I had to live my life over again. He has a quiet strength, yet he is not afraid to let his thoughts known. He has a sense of humor, but he does not inflict harm. He can lead, but he knows how to follow orders. He does not seek your sympathy, but he will get your respect. That is the type of man you want to work for; that is the type of man you strive to be.
When coach, I try to read eyes; if you see understanding in the eyes of your men, understanding without fear, they will go where you lead them. If there is a lack of understanding, and or fear, they can go nowhere. They cannot lead or follow, they are paralyzed.
That is what my eyes must reflect when looked into by God; I have been paralyzed by my current life. I have been afraid to go one way, and fearful to go the other. I never had to worry about this with Addison, when I looked into his eyes there was trust and understanding. I think, in some way, I was sharpening him.
He does not know it, but now Addison is sharpening me. His iron, his strength, through this ordeal, is sharpening me. By this march, now it is my turn to sharpen him, if only in a small way. He will not know the keen edge he has honed on me, nor will I know what type of edge I have helped him shape, but based on the time spent with his Dad yesterday, Addison is already razor sharp; "as iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another".
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Rain will come
Marchers,
The much needed rain came with a bang of the screen door, and gully washer of a current coasting through my back yard, taking the dry soil and moving it outside the back gate.
It gave me time this morning, to head to Academy and purchase some hiking socks and deciding, with the wet streets and dark clouds, to buy a back pack rain cover. I think the color was just right, as it had an orange glow to it, I thought of the Orange Crush defense of the Denver Broncos, I thought of Addison.
Therefore, my new back pack cover is a bright orange, with the, www.addisonmarshallcrushcancer.org", web site address scribbled on the back. I am taking it for a spin this afternoon, so if you see a middle aged male humping a back pack- does not sound like a good thing, or waltzing Matilda along the side of the road, honk your horn and let me know you support Addison also.
Should you healthy marcher determine to get a back pack rain cover, try to get orange, and let's Orange Crush Cancer Together.
The much needed rain came with a bang of the screen door, and gully washer of a current coasting through my back yard, taking the dry soil and moving it outside the back gate.
It gave me time this morning, to head to Academy and purchase some hiking socks and deciding, with the wet streets and dark clouds, to buy a back pack rain cover. I think the color was just right, as it had an orange glow to it, I thought of the Orange Crush defense of the Denver Broncos, I thought of Addison.
Therefore, my new back pack cover is a bright orange, with the, www.addisonmarshallcrushcancer.org", web site address scribbled on the back. I am taking it for a spin this afternoon, so if you see a middle aged male humping a back pack- does not sound like a good thing, or waltzing Matilda along the side of the road, honk your horn and let me know you support Addison also.
Should you healthy marcher determine to get a back pack rain cover, try to get orange, and let's Orange Crush Cancer Together.
Friday, May 14, 2010
What is required.....
He has showed you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8
Marchers,
What is required of us, is to share this march with others and get the word out. What is required of you as a marcher, is to train and be prepared to walk the distance, and make the march. What is graciously accepted is your time, and your energy, and your commitment.
Besides the heavy pack walk yesterday for me, I spent about 45 minutes riding my bike to increase the strength in my upper legs. The idea is to be able to make the walk, the distance without suffering to greatly.
You do not take a test without studying, you do not increase your bench press by hoping and thinking on it. No, you prepare for a test, you prepare for a major lift, by taking the time to build up to it. If you are young and strong, you will make it, but it is the mental game you have to play with yourself, it is the mind which must be overcome. In times of stress, or times of extreme physical activity one must be prepared for the trial. Therefore, the marcher must be prepared for the hike.
I had the pleasure of joining, as one Gunnery Sergeant explained it, the University of Science, Music and Culture- USMC. Because of the influence of John Wayne, and "The Sands of Iwo Jima", I joined up to be a ground pounder, an 0311, a "Grunt". While in Minnesota, we endured the out door climate of -30 degrees, with a -60 degree chill factor, and then had to wait on a helicopter to pick us up. I thought I had never been colder. Then I was. I think I was colder in Korea, but then I think I may have been colder in Norway, or was in Mt. Fuji, Japan in the rain, but one thing remand constant, the Marine Corps, always kept us moving, always kept us training, and never let us forget our mission.
We, the marcher, have a mission. That is to start and finish the march with all hands in good shape. That requires a certain amount of discipline and training. With that in mind, my fine marchers, take the time to train, take the time to harden yourself to the march. We are required to walk humbly, but with strength on our journey through life, but we must always walk with strength and purpose. Remember, we are, Marching with Marshall.
Marchers,
What is required of us, is to share this march with others and get the word out. What is required of you as a marcher, is to train and be prepared to walk the distance, and make the march. What is graciously accepted is your time, and your energy, and your commitment.
Besides the heavy pack walk yesterday for me, I spent about 45 minutes riding my bike to increase the strength in my upper legs. The idea is to be able to make the walk, the distance without suffering to greatly.
You do not take a test without studying, you do not increase your bench press by hoping and thinking on it. No, you prepare for a test, you prepare for a major lift, by taking the time to build up to it. If you are young and strong, you will make it, but it is the mental game you have to play with yourself, it is the mind which must be overcome. In times of stress, or times of extreme physical activity one must be prepared for the trial. Therefore, the marcher must be prepared for the hike.
I had the pleasure of joining, as one Gunnery Sergeant explained it, the University of Science, Music and Culture- USMC. Because of the influence of John Wayne, and "The Sands of Iwo Jima", I joined up to be a ground pounder, an 0311, a "Grunt". While in Minnesota, we endured the out door climate of -30 degrees, with a -60 degree chill factor, and then had to wait on a helicopter to pick us up. I thought I had never been colder. Then I was. I think I was colder in Korea, but then I think I may have been colder in Norway, or was in Mt. Fuji, Japan in the rain, but one thing remand constant, the Marine Corps, always kept us moving, always kept us training, and never let us forget our mission.
We, the marcher, have a mission. That is to start and finish the march with all hands in good shape. That requires a certain amount of discipline and training. With that in mind, my fine marchers, take the time to train, take the time to harden yourself to the march. We are required to walk humbly, but with strength on our journey through life, but we must always walk with strength and purpose. Remember, we are, Marching with Marshall.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Age Requirment and miscellaneous information
Marchers,
Please look on facebook and become a fan of , "Marching with Marshall", when you have time. In this way, we can get the word out to others we are somehow connected to.
I would like to clear up an age issue for those who want to go on the march. If you are fourteen (14), and older you may march with us as an individual, a man of character. If you are thirteen or younger, I will ask that one of your parents make the trek with you. This will guarantee that the youth can either make the march, or his parents already know he cannot.
The march is taking a new course in relation to the number of days the march will take. For both logistical and personal reasons, the course will be about 80 miles long, and we will take four days to march it. This will make us average twenty miles a day, along the march. At the 40 mile mark, we will loop the course around and march back, using the same rest point sites on the return. Hopefully, more marchers can find it easier to do the 80 miles. four day march, then the 129 miles/ six day march.
Happy training, Mac
Please look on facebook and become a fan of , "Marching with Marshall", when you have time. In this way, we can get the word out to others we are somehow connected to.
I would like to clear up an age issue for those who want to go on the march. If you are fourteen (14), and older you may march with us as an individual, a man of character. If you are thirteen or younger, I will ask that one of your parents make the trek with you. This will guarantee that the youth can either make the march, or his parents already know he cannot.
The march is taking a new course in relation to the number of days the march will take. For both logistical and personal reasons, the course will be about 80 miles long, and we will take four days to march it. This will make us average twenty miles a day, along the march. At the 40 mile mark, we will loop the course around and march back, using the same rest point sites on the return. Hopefully, more marchers can find it easier to do the 80 miles. four day march, then the 129 miles/ six day march.
Happy training, Mac
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Waltzing Matilda
Marchers,
I changed up my work out, and hit the heavy pack yesterday. I took just under thirty five pounds, and forced marched in the grass near the bayou to get use to the un-even ground.
The nice things about getting use to these boots, using the grass and not the road for foot conditioning is good socks. Columbia, Thorlo, Fox River, and other manufacturers make some fine socks with merino wool to control friction, and made-made fibers to wick away moisture. Do not use cotton as is absorbs moisture which increases friction.
These training walks are a great way to get comfortable with your boots and socks, because, besides your pack, this will be the real cause of discomfort on our march. Though Wal-Mart may have a few socks to check out, go to a sports store, like Academy here in Texas, go into the shoe section, and find the hiking area. There will be a few boot selections, and many socks to choice form. Always buy socks that come up above thew top of your boot to control chaffing in that area.
For further reference, take a look at the web site listed below:
http://www.hiking-gear-and-equipment-used-for-camping.com/hiking-socks.html
I changed boots for this walk, and put on my Corcoran desert boots. It was a nice change, and will harden my feet in different areas, while still conditioning them. As the old Aussies use to say, let's go Waltzing Matilda- hiking with the pack on- and get ready for our March.
Walk On, My Friend
I changed up my work out, and hit the heavy pack yesterday. I took just under thirty five pounds, and forced marched in the grass near the bayou to get use to the un-even ground.
The nice things about getting use to these boots, using the grass and not the road for foot conditioning is good socks. Columbia, Thorlo, Fox River, and other manufacturers make some fine socks with merino wool to control friction, and made-made fibers to wick away moisture. Do not use cotton as is absorbs moisture which increases friction.
These training walks are a great way to get comfortable with your boots and socks, because, besides your pack, this will be the real cause of discomfort on our march. Though Wal-Mart may have a few socks to check out, go to a sports store, like Academy here in Texas, go into the shoe section, and find the hiking area. There will be a few boot selections, and many socks to choice form. Always buy socks that come up above thew top of your boot to control chaffing in that area.
For further reference, take a look at the web site listed below:
http://www.hiking-gear-and-equipment-used-for-camping.com/hiking-socks.html
I changed boots for this walk, and put on my Corcoran desert boots. It was a nice change, and will harden my feet in different areas, while still conditioning them. As the old Aussies use to say, let's go Waltzing Matilda- hiking with the pack on- and get ready for our March.
Walk On, My Friend
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
On the trail; The agressive trait
"Aggression is part of the masculine design, we are hardwired for it...Little girls do not invent games where large numbers of people die, where blood shed is a perquisite for having fun. Hockey, for example, was not a feminine creation. Nor was boxing. A boy wants to attack something, and so does a man, even if it's only a little white ball on a tee."
John Eldredge
Marchers,
I have watched many fine men fight their own health battles, and , in my mind, I saw myself stand their helplessly, and watch this fight, wanting to attack something in my helplessness, and not knowing what to do to help.
This march is not a cure, nor will it pay for a cure, it is solely a show of solidarity. It is the aggressive nature of a man, that makes him want to attack his enemy; that makes him seek a thing or person to attack.
Thanking about this area of my gender nature, maybe this march is for me, for us. maybe this march, is a way not only to show support, but conquer our helplessness as we stand on the sidelines and watch Addison's battle. I am tired, not from the physical aspect of sitting around watching others, but the mental tightness of the spring of doing nothing. A physical thing, a physical something is a great way to release the spring. Let' march; let's do something aggressive together, and build a bond of togetherness; a sense of belonging to each other, and caring for one another and Addison as we attack the march in support of one of our own.
John Eldredge
Marchers,
I have watched many fine men fight their own health battles, and , in my mind, I saw myself stand their helplessly, and watch this fight, wanting to attack something in my helplessness, and not knowing what to do to help.
This march is not a cure, nor will it pay for a cure, it is solely a show of solidarity. It is the aggressive nature of a man, that makes him want to attack his enemy; that makes him seek a thing or person to attack.
Thanking about this area of my gender nature, maybe this march is for me, for us. maybe this march, is a way not only to show support, but conquer our helplessness as we stand on the sidelines and watch Addison's battle. I am tired, not from the physical aspect of sitting around watching others, but the mental tightness of the spring of doing nothing. A physical thing, a physical something is a great way to release the spring. Let' march; let's do something aggressive together, and build a bond of togetherness; a sense of belonging to each other, and caring for one another and Addison as we attack the march in support of one of our own.
'Charge the Trail, Take the Challenge...and march!
Prayer for the Day
"O Lord, we are about to join battle with vastly superior numbers of the enemy, and Heavenly Father, we would mighty like for you to be on our side and help us. But if You can't do it, for Christ's sake don't go over to the Mexicans, but just lie low and You will see one of the damnedest fights You've ever seen". "Charge!"
Capt. Jack Coffee Hays: Texas Ranger
"Me and Red Wing not afraid to go to hell together.Captain Jack heap brave; not afraid to go to hell by himself."
Pray as if it depends upon God, act as if it depends upon you. "Charge the trail, Take the Challenge"!
"O Lord, we are about to join battle with vastly superior numbers of the enemy, and Heavenly Father, we would mighty like for you to be on our side and help us. But if You can't do it, for Christ's sake don't go over to the Mexicans, but just lie low and You will see one of the damnedest fights You've ever seen". "Charge!"
Capt. Jack Coffee Hays: Texas Ranger
"Me and Red Wing not afraid to go to hell together.Captain Jack heap brave; not afraid to go to hell by himself."
Pray as if it depends upon God, act as if it depends upon you. "Charge the trail, Take the Challenge"!
Planning stages
Marchers,
We have been contacted by the president of the Lion's Club in Huntsville, Jason Dyches, that they will help find radio operators for us to provide support during the march. This will reinforce the U.S. Army's tentative offer of supporting us with comm. We are still waiting to hear from the Army. They were also talking about a "water buffalo" to be used at rest points along the way of the march. I will be contacting them today.
The Marine's at Ellington Field were in fine form this morning, as they loaned us some hydration units and camo netting so we could set up a Command Post at each rest point. A special thanks goes out to First Sergent Stevens and Sgt. McKeta for their help and assistance with equipment for the march. "Up in the morning with the rising sun", must be Sgt. Mcketa's MO, as he was already in place at 0600 standing by for my arrival. You cannot beat that kind of service.
Medics or EMT people are a safety concern, and though the Army is checking into having one stand by, I will need to contact the EMT and firemen from both the Richmond and the Huntsville areas and see if they will volunteer their time for the march.
There has been a thought shopped around from interested parties as to food preparation, though a generous, remaining anonymous source has provided on-the-trail food, we would still like to find some organization who would like to sponsor a nightly rest point, and have a hot meal for the marchers each night of the journey. Perhaps not just businesses, but mothers of the marchers might want to coordinate this and feed these hunger hikers, and, in this way, also check on their sons. It could well be a "family affair"of those marshaling for Marshall.
Soon we will have a connections with the, www.addisonmarshallcrushcancer.com", site. Interested parties can then find us, and begin to prepare for the march. Help me/us get the word out. Set the date for, JUNE 12th, and start your training.
We have been contacted by the president of the Lion's Club in Huntsville, Jason Dyches, that they will help find radio operators for us to provide support during the march. This will reinforce the U.S. Army's tentative offer of supporting us with comm. We are still waiting to hear from the Army. They were also talking about a "water buffalo" to be used at rest points along the way of the march. I will be contacting them today.
The Marine's at Ellington Field were in fine form this morning, as they loaned us some hydration units and camo netting so we could set up a Command Post at each rest point. A special thanks goes out to First Sergent Stevens and Sgt. McKeta for their help and assistance with equipment for the march. "Up in the morning with the rising sun", must be Sgt. Mcketa's MO, as he was already in place at 0600 standing by for my arrival. You cannot beat that kind of service.
Medics or EMT people are a safety concern, and though the Army is checking into having one stand by, I will need to contact the EMT and firemen from both the Richmond and the Huntsville areas and see if they will volunteer their time for the march.
There has been a thought shopped around from interested parties as to food preparation, though a generous, remaining anonymous source has provided on-the-trail food, we would still like to find some organization who would like to sponsor a nightly rest point, and have a hot meal for the marchers each night of the journey. Perhaps not just businesses, but mothers of the marchers might want to coordinate this and feed these hunger hikers, and, in this way, also check on their sons. It could well be a "family affair"of those marshaling for Marshall.
Soon we will have a connections with the, www.addisonmarshallcrushcancer.com", site. Interested parties can then find us, and begin to prepare for the march. Help me/us get the word out. Set the date for, JUNE 12th, and start your training.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Training Guide...of sorts
Fellow Marchers,
Yesterday the work out was non-existent, as the flavor of the day was parental responsibilities; a heavy mixture of anger, love and dread.
Therefore today's work out were the step ups, and light weight plate squats. This is to build the quad up for repetitive and increasing hiking steps. Tonight is a rapid walk with light weight in the pack, maybe five to six miles.
Back pack weight depends on what your bring, but plan on twenty pounds as an average, and twenty five to thirty pounds as a heavy weighted day. Fifty pounds would be too much, especially starting out.
I would like to out line a training guide of sorts, if you do not already have one, as we train for the March.
Monday- Fast walk with little or no weights; step ups and light squats with plate or kettle-bell
Tuesday- Weighted walk, a bit more weight then you will take on the March
Wednesday- Ride bike, jog, cross train
Thursday- Weighted walk, with a bit more then you would normally take on March
Friday- Fast walk, or walk jog; add steps ups and plate squats or kettle-bell squats
Saturday- Long hike with normal weighted back pack
Sunday- rest or walk
Let your Monday/ Friday fast walks be about one hour, and build up to two, then three.
Let your Tuesday/Thursday weighted walks start at about one hour, and build up to about one and a half hours.
Wednesday and Sundays are good days to cross train and recover.
Saturday is your increasingly tough day, where you will need to build up to about four to five hours of back packing pleasure; take your time and enjoy the walk; take plenty of water, and a friend if possible.
State parks are a good place to start your long walks. In our area, Texas Gulf Coast, Brazos Bend is a nice walk, but you may have to make a few loops. Other areas that make for good walks include Bastrop, Lost maples, and Enchanted Rock Sate Parks.
Happy packing and take plenty of water.
Yesterday the work out was non-existent, as the flavor of the day was parental responsibilities; a heavy mixture of anger, love and dread.
Therefore today's work out were the step ups, and light weight plate squats. This is to build the quad up for repetitive and increasing hiking steps. Tonight is a rapid walk with light weight in the pack, maybe five to six miles.
Back pack weight depends on what your bring, but plan on twenty pounds as an average, and twenty five to thirty pounds as a heavy weighted day. Fifty pounds would be too much, especially starting out.
I would like to out line a training guide of sorts, if you do not already have one, as we train for the March.
Monday- Fast walk with little or no weights; step ups and light squats with plate or kettle-bell
Tuesday- Weighted walk, a bit more weight then you will take on the March
Wednesday- Ride bike, jog, cross train
Thursday- Weighted walk, with a bit more then you would normally take on March
Friday- Fast walk, or walk jog; add steps ups and plate squats or kettle-bell squats
Saturday- Long hike with normal weighted back pack
Sunday- rest or walk
Let your Monday/ Friday fast walks be about one hour, and build up to two, then three.
Let your Tuesday/Thursday weighted walks start at about one hour, and build up to about one and a half hours.
Wednesday and Sundays are good days to cross train and recover.
Saturday is your increasingly tough day, where you will need to build up to about four to five hours of back packing pleasure; take your time and enjoy the walk; take plenty of water, and a friend if possible.
State parks are a good place to start your long walks. In our area, Texas Gulf Coast, Brazos Bend is a nice walk, but you may have to make a few loops. Other areas that make for good walks include Bastrop, Lost maples, and Enchanted Rock Sate Parks.
Happy packing and take plenty of water.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Go tell it to the Marines!
I did, and they responded with the use of some of their equipment, such as the loaning of their Camel back hydration units. I even went and spoke to the Army, and they responded with the use of a water buffalo and some comm equipment. Next, I need to talk to the Navy, just in case we hit a large creek and need some ships to cross over. Just kidding, these lads can wade anything.
Who are these lads going, you might ask. Why would they go in the heat, and walk roughly twenty miles a day? The answer is simple: they know Marshall; they want to be strong as Marshall. The true is, I want to be as strong as Marshall.
I joined the Marine Corps for a variety of reasons; the main one dealt with me being hard enough to take the training, I guess. It changed me. I changed because I was now to be measured by a different marking, a different measure. I was to be compared to all the other marines who had joined the Corps. There have been ball players, actors, politicians, and garbage men. I met stockbrokers, engineers, and doctors to be. They all had one thing in common: they were men who had joined to see if they had the gear, to be member of, what they are told everyday, "The Finest Fighting Force in the World". It took me many months to agree, but when I did, I bought into the Esprit de Corps. I could now sing, "Eat burnt baby bodies, finger licking good now".
What changed was my way of looking at my world; what changed was the fact, I know I would not leave my comrades, my friends, even if surrounded with no hope to survive. They were Marines, and they would not leave me either.
Addison Marshall represents this type of man. He would not leave you, he would stay by you, even if he was surrounded and there was no hope for survival. He bought inot this without joining the Marines; that is the type of man he is. He is the type of man, who would run a business and give it everything he's got, and ask the same of you. He would lead by example and never give up on the company or his morals.
This walk is not about money, but never giving up; never giving in to a disease that surrounds you with little hope of survival the second time around. Addison has asked for no quarter, and has not sounded retreat. He stands strong, facing his foe, ready for action. I have no ammo to give him, no magic bullets to offer, but my own strength. I stand with him; I will walk with him, and if need be, I will carry him, for he would do the same for me.
He is not a Marine, but if he was, he would carry the type of qualities that would inspire men, the type of leadership that would conqueror our enemies. He is one of the best and brightest; our strength and shield, let us walk a few miles in his steps and stand strong against his enemy, if only for a few days. As Frost says, "You come too".
Who are these lads going, you might ask. Why would they go in the heat, and walk roughly twenty miles a day? The answer is simple: they know Marshall; they want to be strong as Marshall. The true is, I want to be as strong as Marshall.
I joined the Marine Corps for a variety of reasons; the main one dealt with me being hard enough to take the training, I guess. It changed me. I changed because I was now to be measured by a different marking, a different measure. I was to be compared to all the other marines who had joined the Corps. There have been ball players, actors, politicians, and garbage men. I met stockbrokers, engineers, and doctors to be. They all had one thing in common: they were men who had joined to see if they had the gear, to be member of, what they are told everyday, "The Finest Fighting Force in the World". It took me many months to agree, but when I did, I bought into the Esprit de Corps. I could now sing, "Eat burnt baby bodies, finger licking good now".
What changed was my way of looking at my world; what changed was the fact, I know I would not leave my comrades, my friends, even if surrounded with no hope to survive. They were Marines, and they would not leave me either.
Addison Marshall represents this type of man. He would not leave you, he would stay by you, even if he was surrounded and there was no hope for survival. He bought inot this without joining the Marines; that is the type of man he is. He is the type of man, who would run a business and give it everything he's got, and ask the same of you. He would lead by example and never give up on the company or his morals.
This walk is not about money, but never giving up; never giving in to a disease that surrounds you with little hope of survival the second time around. Addison has asked for no quarter, and has not sounded retreat. He stands strong, facing his foe, ready for action. I have no ammo to give him, no magic bullets to offer, but my own strength. I stand with him; I will walk with him, and if need be, I will carry him, for he would do the same for me.
He is not a Marine, but if he was, he would carry the type of qualities that would inspire men, the type of leadership that would conqueror our enemies. He is one of the best and brightest; our strength and shield, let us walk a few miles in his steps and stand strong against his enemy, if only for a few days. As Frost says, "You come too".
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Time to Train
As Marshall of the march, I would like to remind interested parties to begin training for this event. For those who have not done this, or trained outside, your conditioning and the heat will be a factor in how well you do, or if you even make it.
This morning, I donned my back pack with about 25 #'s in it, and beat feet for close to six miles in hiking boots. I followed this up with a leisurely walk of three miles in tennis shoes. Tomorrow, when I get up and moving, I plan to ride my bike and preform about five sets of step up on my home-made plyo box. In this way I am developing the quad for the labor of continued walking with my gross, heavy body weight.
Questions are starting to come in about what hygene items to bring. A tooth brush with paste is a must; soap a must; everything else, optional. There was even a comment last night, asking if a person would stink after a couple of days marching through the woods. I can solve that question easily; Heck, yes, you will smell. With this in mind, maybe we should ask the helping Mother to smell our young men on the last day of the march and see who smells the worst, and offer a reward of two deodorant sticks to help out our strong smelling friend.
To solve another hygiene questions: You do not have to take a bath, but you need to keep the areas clean where sweat and dirt gather. If you do not know where this is, hunt for the dark and hairy places, take your bar of soap, lather up, wash, rinse, and repeat if necessary.
To solve a rash question: either wear boxers, no underwear, or wash and change underwear each night. If you need any more information in this area, ask your Dad. Jungle rot, is not the brother of jingle bell rock.
Keep the questions coming. We all need to be prepared. Any former DI's up to the challenge? They do not have to practice anger, just care, which many did and do all the time when training their recruits.
"Forward Hooo!"
This morning, I donned my back pack with about 25 #'s in it, and beat feet for close to six miles in hiking boots. I followed this up with a leisurely walk of three miles in tennis shoes. Tomorrow, when I get up and moving, I plan to ride my bike and preform about five sets of step up on my home-made plyo box. In this way I am developing the quad for the labor of continued walking with my gross, heavy body weight.
Questions are starting to come in about what hygene items to bring. A tooth brush with paste is a must; soap a must; everything else, optional. There was even a comment last night, asking if a person would stink after a couple of days marching through the woods. I can solve that question easily; Heck, yes, you will smell. With this in mind, maybe we should ask the helping Mother to smell our young men on the last day of the march and see who smells the worst, and offer a reward of two deodorant sticks to help out our strong smelling friend.
To solve another hygiene questions: You do not have to take a bath, but you need to keep the areas clean where sweat and dirt gather. If you do not know where this is, hunt for the dark and hairy places, take your bar of soap, lather up, wash, rinse, and repeat if necessary.
To solve a rash question: either wear boxers, no underwear, or wash and change underwear each night. If you need any more information in this area, ask your Dad. Jungle rot, is not the brother of jingle bell rock.
Keep the questions coming. We all need to be prepared. Any former DI's up to the challenge? They do not have to practice anger, just care, which many did and do all the time when training their recruits.
"Forward Hooo!"
Friday, May 7, 2010
What type of man is our Marshall? He is the type of man you prayer for as a son. He is the type of man you can be proud of. Please read Gen. MacArther's poem below.
Build Me a Son
General Douglas A. MacArthur
Build Me a Son
General Douglas A. MacArthur
Build me a son, O Lord,
who will be strong enough to know when he is weak,
and brave enough to face him self when he is afraid;
one who will be proud and unbending in honest defeat,
and humble and gentle in victory.
Build me a son whose wishbone will not be
where his backbone should be;
a son who will know Thee- and that
to know himself is the foundation stone of knowledge.
Lead him, I pray, not in the path of ease and comfort,
but under the stress and spur of difficulties and challenge.
Here, let him learn to stand up in the storm;
here, let him team compassion for those who fall.
Build me a son whose heart will be clear, whose goals will be high;
a son who will master himself before he seeks to master other men;
one who will learn to laugh, yet never forget how to weep;
one who will reach into the future, yet never forget the past.
And after all these things are his,
add, I pray, enough of a sense of humor,
so that he may always be serious,
yet never take himself too seriously.
Give him humility, so that he may always remember
the simplicity of true greatness,
the open mind of true wisdom,
the meekness of true strength.
Then I, his father, will dare to whisper,
"I have not lived in vain."
Marching with Marshall
This blog is dedicated to Addison Marshall, who, he of the stoic and strong nature, is battling the deadly disease of leukemia. He is as fine a young man as ever strode this green earth. He cannot leap tall buildings in a single bond, he cannot fly faster then a speeding bullet, no, he is more human than that. His true strength is that he is a battler; he is a fighter by nature; he is a warrior, and all his energies have to go to defeating this curse of human health- cancer.
As the warrior must defend his position in battle, he usually has others to watch out and help protect his flanks in this fight. But, Addison stands alone in this deadly battle, reinforced by nothing but isolation, no matter the love and care that is showered on him by his family. His position is full of mine fields of fragile blood counts readings, a chemo charges with the bayoneted needles, the vomiting of projectiles as he negotiates the battlefield.
Though Addison mans his position alone in this battle, others wish to walk with him, to encourage and support him. We are those people; we are, "Marching with Marshall".
We, the supporters of Addison Marshall, will be marching to show this solidarity and support on June 12th in the Sam Houston National Forrest, along the Lone Star Hiking Trail. The trail is 129 miles long, and will require much support and many resources. All supporters of Marshall are invited to hike, and supporters who cannot hike, are invited to donate their time, talent, or supplies.
Want to know what you can give in support of Marshall? Contact me: Mac McStravick at mmcstravick@ces-richmond.org
More information to follow.
As the warrior must defend his position in battle, he usually has others to watch out and help protect his flanks in this fight. But, Addison stands alone in this deadly battle, reinforced by nothing but isolation, no matter the love and care that is showered on him by his family. His position is full of mine fields of fragile blood counts readings, a chemo charges with the bayoneted needles, the vomiting of projectiles as he negotiates the battlefield.
Though Addison mans his position alone in this battle, others wish to walk with him, to encourage and support him. We are those people; we are, "Marching with Marshall".
We, the supporters of Addison Marshall, will be marching to show this solidarity and support on June 12th in the Sam Houston National Forrest, along the Lone Star Hiking Trail. The trail is 129 miles long, and will require much support and many resources. All supporters of Marshall are invited to hike, and supporters who cannot hike, are invited to donate their time, talent, or supplies.
Want to know what you can give in support of Marshall? Contact me: Mac McStravick at mmcstravick@ces-richmond.org
More information to follow.
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