MIND OVER MOSQUITOS? [Losing My Cool on the Appalachian Trail]

[@frankfowlkes7872]

I follow you on a regular basis and rarely comment but I just want you to know that I (and I think many others) truly appreciate your honesty in relating your journey. I think it is only natural to paint a rosy picture of the joys of hiking the AT but the truth is while there are highs it is also true that the AT is very hard! Thanks for bringing us along and thanks also for sharing your heart and true feelings!

[@lindiemoon]

Definitely a tough week, you’ll look back and be impressed how you kept trucking on!

[@bobhamulak3646]

Hello again Maddie. I just finished reading about 20 or so of your viewer's comments. Wow! ALL OF THEM are wishing you well...they all send their support and good wishes. I hope you can draw from that, and it gives you support and strength! Take care!

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

Yes, I definitely do! I am so lucky for all this wonderful support, even if it’s hard to remember on bad days!

[@SunFL]

“It’s like a hot dog without the meat!” You got this! We love you and support you! 🙏❤️✨🌈

[@robertknowles2699]

I'm enthusiast, yet is malaria a threat from totality of skeeters ?

[@jaywolfe1254]

Keep going!!!

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

Wow!! Will do!

[@amerphoto1]

I love it when you say, "It will be OK, it will be OK", reassuring yourself that it will be OK." Because it will be OK! You figure after all the miles and obstacles you have overcome and accomplished you will regret giving them up. It will not be long before will be on your way home and all you will have is memories of the good, hard and bad times. There are tough times yet to come, but you being young and determined will overcome them. I know you are thinking, easy for you to say because I am not there doing it. I have watched many thru hikers this year get to the same point you are, just south of Vermont and every one of them, all successful in reaching Mount Katahdin, were having the same mental anguishes you are going through, many of them in serious pain and injuries...but they all fought through it and continued on. You can do it too! You have a great tramily to hike with and support you. We all love you and support you and wish you the very best in success in your quest for Katahdin!

[@jamesadams2334]

As I told Queen of Hearts, It's OK for badass' to lose it and to cry on the trail. It's therapy. The main thing is to not quit! You're doing great Maddie. Just keep at it, It's hard to realize that you're almost there. Hike safe, Hike strong, Have fun! geek

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

I love Queen of Hearts!! That’s so cool that you watch her videos too!

[@SunFL]

🙏❤️🎯

[@TheSpiralLab]

The mosquitoes would truly test my resolve. I’m wishing you strength and endurance and a better bug stray dispenser.

[@SpacemanXC]

You may not realize it now, but that fact you're CHOOSING to do something hard and you're sticking with it despite the hardships, is so huge. No matter how you feel now, when you do finish, you'll be much better at handling the hard things in life that you DIDN"T choose. I'm coming to the end of my 30's, and this has been the hardest decade of my life. I've never done anything like a through hike. I really wish I could say I have. You have so much of my respect for being out there, and sharing these adventures with us. I hope it's not weird reading comments like this. You have no idea who I am. We will probably never meet in person. Yet you're one of my favorite people on the planet right now. And for some reason I feel compelled to tell you this. Life is weird.

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

Not weird at all, I love seeing comments like this! Thank you for the perspective!

[@sweetbeep]

Can I ask the reasons she is one of your favorite people on the planet right now?

[@SpacemanXC]

Is this a serious question? I feel like I'm gonna give an answer and then you're going to make fun of me, or tell me that she's actually a horrible person, or something. @@sweetbeep

[@mimihikes1466]

We are all rooting for you Maddie! You are SO awesome! I love how you ALWAYS try to find something positive even on your toughest days! You GOT this!!!!

[@ClaireAdare-zi9nn]

Thank you for taking us with you! I wish you could hear me say, "Wow!!!" when you show us the scenery! Thank you - I'm 78 and broke my femur in March and so far have only been able to walk 1 1/2 miles and I'll never be able to do the AT so I appreciate your dedication.

[@billiebluesheepie2907]

I hope you get back to normal soon. I fell and broke my hip in March, they put in a metal one but it dislocated a few times (much more painful than breaking it!) so they had to give me a pelvic lining too so they could bolt it together. I haven’t been able to walk since 2013 and I miss it terribly, the physio tells me to stop torturing myself and to give up trying, but I can’t.

[@pattyk8594]

I'm really enjoying your videos. So glad you are telling the story the way it really is, it's hard, and not just showing everything that's perfect. :o)

[@rachelyoung2775]

I'm finally caught up on all of your videos. Please try to stay positive, i can only imagine your frustration with the bugs, but try to remember how awesome it will be once you cross the finish line. Thanks for all your videos and making me feel like a friend. Remember, if it was easy everyone would be doing it.

[@karengustin6066]

They are a pain, but in dire circumstances, get a bug net. Stay strong girl- a fellow Kentuckian!

[@bluejean500]

this is the first long video of yours i’ve watched (i never miss a short, tho!)& i just know i’m going to cry when you reach Katahdin. i’ve been watching from the start so i’m pretty emotionally invested in your thru-hike at this point. 😂

[@sherryzee2634]

You are sooo awesome! You have to admit that what you have accomplished is actually amazing. You have persevered through tons already. Having bugs constantly attack you as the trail gets harder is a very hard task to face. Your accomplishments have made you both stronger but have also taken a toll on your very being. You are one amazing young lady who's honesty I admire along with your self talks to get you through the next challenges. May the rainbow be a harbinger of happier trails

[@bebelovestoread]

I so admire you, Maddie! My stomach clenched when seeing boulders you were to climb, and the rock paths where you have to carefully place your feet. I’m praying for cool breezes to chase away those mosquitoes and for you to have safe, less strenuous trails. You are a precious girl - thank you for sharing your experiences!

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

Thank you! 😊

[@lindaf6716]

What a beautiful insightful video! It’s ok to be frustrated, tired and miserable- what you’re doing is HARD! But thank you for sharing your journey with me-this grandma in Ohio. May you have cool temps and blue skies! Oh and some flat trails 😊

[@robertknowles2699]

First Tornados along Lake Erie & Cleveland - the destructive sort; be extra watchful when you hear Thunder & Lightening. Rest extra ? Avoid peak of hill carrying umbrella

[@patriciamurray5189]

Cute sheepies. Be safe!

[@XLR8DaMUSTANG]

I've been obsessed with the Appalachian Trail lately, so I've been watching so many various KZbinrs journeys. This video was the first one of yours I stumbled across lol. At first, I was thinking, "Wow, I chose a bad one to start with" haha. But then at 8:54, you got me choked up, and I immediately subscribed and set a notification. You got another friend out there really rooting for you!

[@NYDaughter1972]

Another wonderful video, Maddie! You are so real and honest and smart. Thank you for taking us on your journey with you

[@marilynthomson9564]

Another great video! Thank you so much. Just keep doing what you’re doing. It’s OK to have meltdowns as long as you just keep going. We’re all behind you we have your back. Can’t wait for the next installment.

[@janmariolle]

The more I see the world through your eyes, the the more I see how unique and lovely you are. I feel lucky to have discovered your channel. I’m rooting for your success.❤

[@spectrum10]

Title of your video reminds me of the song Mind over Matter by E.G. Daily

[@swirlytwirl1089]

Thanks for mentioning about the native territories... I'm an Aussie, and as I walk, I'm constantly thinking about what life would have been like before the ships arrived... I sometimes come across gringing grooves and engravings in rock. It fascinates me...

[@lenaleodotter2725]

Hey hey Maddie - I’m in Sweden getting ready for Kungsleden - if I don’t comment on your journey I have not left you. Keep going I will catch up end of September. Now my family in Sweden will follow you and keep me up dated - ❤❤❤

[@thexxit]

the mosquitoes would have been the end of me. it would have been where I called it quits, so good for you!

[@d.jasonmcneese2730]

Thank you for taking us along with you!! Please keep taking us!!

[@Get_Some_Nature]

Never quit on a bad week! Think of all the experiences you will never have up north if you quit now. It's only 2 more months and you will remember this the rest of your life! I promise it gets better in New England. The heat and bugs are only temporary. You can finish!!! We believe in you!!!! ❤❤❤

[@LauraMichellez]

Thank you so so much for taking on the challenge of making videos for us. We appreciate you!!

[@tomellis3218]

You are made of the right stuff as they say. The trail is simplistic, not easy for sure but compared to back in the world where there are so many option & everyday decisions to confront on the trail it’s pitch your tent, feed yourself, get some sleep/rest, wake up , feed yourself, pack up your gear, decide how far you will hike and hike to your goal without getting hurt …. Then do it all over again & again & again while dealing with aches and pains, cuts and bruises, mosquito bites, black fly bikes, humidity rain what close rocky trails, inclines and declines and somehow, in the end you have done something that only a handful of people in the world have ever attempted, let alone accomplished, and even those who don’t accomplish completing the entire trail for whatever time they were on the trail, they were experience of life that they will remember for the rest of their time on this earth. Ranger you are amazing you put your emotions out there shared with us so many adventures and struggles and concerns and your subscribers are there they just want to see you succeed, so keep going one step at a time.❤😅😊

[@seetomgo]

eye on the prize Maddie...you've come this far, don't give up now! remember why you started in the first place...this isn't for bragging rights; this is for you. for the rest of your life, you will be able to draw strength from your accomplishment - and you will forever be stronger because of it!

[@AmericanHuskyCash]

These are the days we often remember most and look back in awe and create happiness. You will look back at this video and laugh.

[@jaapongeveer6203]

Mosquitos are a pain in the ass for everyone but their time will soon be over. There will be good days and there will be bad days no matter where you are. You have a big following that's in your corner.

[@Belisarius9495]

I have so much respect for you! These long trails are hard. The mosquitoes and all the other miserable things really test a person. You are real about the difficulties but remain positive and keep your eye on the goal. That is the mark of a great through hiker. I wish you the best as you journey north.

[@SpacemanXC]

"I don't want to live my life around trying not to get completely swarmed by mosquitos." Exactly why I live in Southern California. Yes, there are some bugs here, but it's nothing compared to the northeast.

[@pattyann7803]

I HATE mosquitoes. I’ve lived in upstate New York for 70 years. You need to wear your long sleeve shirts and long pants and cover as much as possible with lightweight clothing. You are so resilient and I know you will overcome these pesky bugs as you do every other challenge. I hope sharing with your viewers gives you some consolation. We are listening!!!

[@lladams4872]

It is worth it & ur doing great. I'm wishing the mosquitos away, ugh u brave girl

[@all-to-Him-I-owe100]

Don’t give in Maddie! You are so right - it will be worth it. I think the best is yet to come, don’t give up! It’s always darkest before the dawn! My Dad always told me when things got really tough - take a deep breath, close your eyes, and KNOW that you can do this!

[@arandompersonp9883]

You are awesome, what a hard hike today. The bugs can be overwhelming. A flat trail would be nice. Hang in there.

[@ChipChoc00]

So impressed by your determination to keep going! 💕

[@bigbranch1]

Thanks!

[@bigbranch1]

Just wishing you better days.....your videos are very entertaining....really hoping you succeed .....good luck!

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

Thank YOU!

[@Get_Some_Nature]

You are stronger than the mosquitos! Fall is coming and the bugs will be gone soon. I know it sucks but you got this!!! Go Maddie go! The White Mountains are calling. Epic adventure awaits you!!! 🦵🦵🤠❤❤❤

[@jonbroadsword7572]

“If it were easy, everybody would do it. Hard is what makes it great.” - Tom Hanks (Coach Jimmy Dugan) from the movie "A League of Their Own".

[@oldguyriders]

Nice scenery in your video. Must be frustrating with all the bugs. As you push thru the next month let’s start looking forward to new adventures on the horizon like mountain biking/camping along the Dalton highway, kayaking the length of the Mississippi River, motor biking from Alaska to Venezuela, etc. 😀

[@bobhamulak3646]

Hi Maddie! I just finished watching your latest video. You seem a little frustrated with how life is treating you lately. Keep in mind, you are exposing yourself to one of the most difficult things you will ever do in your lifetime! Hiking 2200 miles on the AT is a true test of not just your physical endurance, but also your mental stamina as well. You have to accept that there will be highs and lows, just like good days and bad days. Just keep in mind that you are testing yourself, and that what doesn't kill you will make you stronger. There are many kinds of "suck" in the world, and remember the hikers mantra; "Embrace the Suck"! Your friend is right about there being many obstacles to overcome, and you ARE overcoming them! You really are doing GREAT! Don't let your emotions deceive you. Keep at it and you WILL succeed! Well, be strong, stay safe, and ENJOY! And always remember, we as your viewers always support you! We want you to be successful with your journey. OK?! You GOT THIS, Maddie!

[@chrissycarboni5065]

I can only imagine the emotional ups and downs, but on this side looking in... girl, you are killing it!!! Keep going.. take time to be still and meditate and give yourself the credit you deserve! You got this❤❤❤

[@dougsneider722]

You’re doing great! Thanks for the wonderful vlogs.

[@berniebroering7438]

Just like the Knobstone Trail Maddie, Up, over, look, admire, down, smack, repeat. Enjoy the type one and two fun youngster you've got that! Cheers from Cincinnati!

[@ronnovak2314]

Yes, you have to finish this journey. You've gone to far, fought through so much adversity. Your going to complete a feat that many can't do. You go girl!

[@WarpedHorizon]

I dealt with soul-crushing mosquitoes like that in northern Minnesota this year, I can partially understand your pain (I could escape). Stay strong!

[@Janetbringsawareness]

Accomplishment❤ so 2 months left. Your awesome Ranger... finally got to sit down! You got this!!❤🎉😊 Only a lot of appreciation! And much gratitude 😊

[@Bane-l7h]

You're dealin with the skeeters better than I would. I'd be droppin F-bombs left and right!! 😂 Like others say here though-- thanks for keepin it real!

[@SkepticalRaptor]

Just posting for your algorithm. 😃 You’ve got this, and we all support you. In case you ever do it, the PCT has far fewer bugs. Of course, you will be climbing through snow in June, so there’s that. 😃

[@spiderbip]

the mosquitos have been extremely bad in CT/NY area due to all the rains in June/July

[@steveblake4187]

I spent a week in the Everglades once. Smacked at mosquitoes on my head so often I gave myself a headache.

[@ISLEOVUE]

Maddie the view at 6:40 it was breathtaking. Keep your heart in the right place, and love life. 💙

[@kathrynbaker5188]

I’m thinking mustard on a bagel is an interesting idea! I am praying for you. You are soooo not alone.

[@anastasiam.8809]

I couldn't handle the mosquitoes for more than 2 minutes. I love these videos, and virtually travelling through the trail.

[@glynnmorgan6422]

That comment after talking a bite of the mustard bagel was priceless... Keep on keeping on sweetheart. YOU can do it little lady. Best wishes!!!

[@crflashyfox]

Growing up I used to eat mustard sandwiches with just mustard on them! I forgot all about that until I saw your bagel!

[@jennifercarmack2405]

Your weekly updates, I really look forward to them. Please tell Pac(k)-man and smoke master Hello from me. They are like our AT besties too! ❤

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

I love that!! I will tell them!

[@dianemayes9483]

Mosquito 🦟…the worst! Especially if you are someone who’s very sensitive. Oh my gosh… How I can relate! I came back from Costa Rica. My arms and legs were covered with bites and welts. No relief. I was tearing up listening to you express your frustration. Wise words-don’t make a decision on a bad day. Your bagel with mustard reminded me of a soft pretzel, not so much a hot dog without the meat.🤣. We are on this journey with you in spirit and sending you positive vibes, strength, fortitude, more rainbows, and trail Friendships! We are your cheerleaders 😊

[@billmoore4996]

You can do this. You are doing what I wish I had done earlier in life. You are an inspiration. I will follow you all the way.

[@johnnyz3075]

I feel your pain with those darn mosquitos! They can really drive a person insane. If it was me, I’d be wearing long pants and long sleeves, plus the head net - all the time. I can stand being hot, but not being bugged to death!

[@jimschlabachpeacefuloutdoo7327]

Hang in there, you and crew are awesome.

[@Get_Some_Nature]

I highly recommend buying incense sticks at your next Walmart. Lavender incense sticks keep all the bugs away when you stop moving. 40 for a dollar and lighter and work better than any bug spray. It's a game changer. Camp free of the mosquitos and biting flies. I carried them in a gallon ziploc to keep them dry last year. Light one before setting up camp. Carry it around with you so the bugs will leave you alone. I won't hike in the summer without lavender incense sticks!!!

[@swirlytwirl1089]

I think one of the major things you learnt is that by persevering to Katadin you will see the worth of the journey, it's joys and difficulties in a new way... Joy you take with you, it is an essence of you... happiness can be found..and lost... choose joy...

[@703am]

don't give up now, you're getting closer and closer to the end. Makes me wonder why there are so many mosquitoes. Has to be plenty of still water around. I know you'll make it thru all the bad stuff and be glad you didn't give up take care

[@sallys2423]

I wouldn't say that you didn't learn anything, I'd say that you learned some patience and acceptance.

[@doug101100]

we were in canada fishing one time and the bugs were so bad. we got bug spray that was 100% deet and it stopped them in their tracks. try it if you haven't. don't give up you'll regret it the rest of your live . you've got this, hang in there it will get better

[@jimmymalone3494]

Great job Ranger!!!! i do not like mosquitoes.I can't wait for the next video and good luck to you.

[@michaeledwards-us7nd]

Love love your videos..........even when you are at your lowest. Thanks for bringing us along. Michael from Ireland

[@critterstrails2755]

Howdy from florida, as far as putting bugg spray on your leggs, just spray it on your palm then wipe the back and front of your leggs, be safe and good views, God Bless ,critter's trails

[@dougholmes8468]

Way to stay positive Maddie!! You got this!! Between me and you, I think that you needed an ipa after the MM (mosquito meltdown) This is only like the 3rd or 4th meltdown you have uploaded Hopefully you haven’t had too many others! This might help … Next time you find yourself unraveling, say out loud to yourself or maybe add to your weekly review episode “these are 2-3 things I’m most grateful for this past week, month, year”. Or however you like. Keep that one foot in front the other….. 🦶

[@shayzoo2]

I know we’re behind you on the trail, but since you still have some time to go I’ll make a suggestion. If you can find permethrin I suggest you treat your tent and bag as well as your hiking clothes. Stella (who’s finished already) has a horrible time with bugs on the trail, but she said that the people who had used permethrin on their gear and wore Deet had much less issues wi th mosquitoes than she did. She said she wished she had permethrined her gear and clothes. So if you have a chance to find some soon I would take the time to do that. I hope it gets better for you.

[@Stoners_org-l1z]

I think you are adorable 😍 and I love how you are getting out there and doing what you love 💕 Ioved to Maine from CT 1.5yrs ago and havent hiked im a few years, sadly. Please be safe and I'm sending you positive, safe travels vibes ✌️

[@stephengarfield4691]

I support you whatever you do.

[@alexanderzetino4008]

Greetings from California

[@Vizzini_KungFu]

I understand your frustrations Maddie. Like a true G you kept on hiking on! Plus you saw sheep! 😊

[@pegspun]

Thank you for another wonderful video and for keeping it all real and in perspective. You’re doing an amazing job and yes, there are obstacles but you are overcoming them and the reward at the end will be so worth it… I promise. And thank you again for taking us along on your beautiful journey.🤍

[@bethaniebreathes]

I would have gone bananas with the mosquitoes too. I do feel like I've hiked the AT with you I appreciate your videos. I've stayed to hike the AT since I was a kid and at 47, I doubt I will. This gave me an opportunity to see everything and experience it through your eyes.

[@BeerinBeautifulPlaces]

Thank you!! I’m so glad you feel like you hiked the AT with me! It’s an honor having you along for the journey!

[@BiggySnacks]

Really enjoying your progress! So very inspiring!!!

[@Carcosahead]

I can smell the bug spray through my screen, keep on keeping on Ranger!

[@teresapeabody2746]

My best solution to mosquitos is a straw hat with a couple of fly papers wrapped around it. Mosquitos no matter how many times you swat, just keep on attacking, the same ones over and over. Once you catch one on flypaper, that one never bothers you again. Pretty soon, you thin them down to a point where they are no longer a nuisance. I used to work in the woods, I have seen them land on those flypapers to the point that it was standing room only. If nothing more, you have the satisfaction of knowing those ones will not reproduce. If everyone hiking the AT did this, the problem would diminish greatly almost overnight. IT is inexpensive to try. A $10 straw hat and a 4 pack of fly papers for a couple bucks. I use a few diaper pins to pin them to my hat. I have literally worked 50 feet from another guy once and he was being tormented while the air around me was almost free of bugs. It is like we all give off a scent that they like and they seem to choose the person they wish to torment. I remember as a child, they always tormented dad more thas us kids. Also, when working, I would spray the back of my shirt with deep woods off, and put none on the front because I did not want to constantly breathe it in. A other thing, AVON makes a product called SKIN SO SOFT, which is DEET free and it does an amazing job of repelling flys. If you go on their Website, then search my name as an AVON rep, you can buy it through my AVON store. Not sure how you would recieve it though, unless you have a way to ship it ahead to an address that you plan to be at.

[@joeldre424]

In the middle of winter when I was a BoyScout we slept in Leanto shelters like the one in your video at 10 Mile River New York. 1/10/1970

[@joeldre424]

Keep the faith 🙏

[@Finally35]

I think you need to try a different bug spray. Have you used Deep Woods Off - its in the green can? This is what you want in New England Deep Woods Off. I have lived in New England all my life and been in the woods of Maine and New Hampshire it works better than anything else.

[@craigdarby9533]

You are always learning. In this case you are learning something about yourself. Calm seas don't make a skillful sailor.

[@johnodonoghue651]

hang in there. you are awesome!

[@sarahkrick8667]

Hang in there!

[@jdahik97]

You got this! Keep going!!!

[@madpakke]

You Can do this💪🏻

[@Steve-j1p]

I guess that's a 'NO', ya won't marry me???? Lol!!!! Ya so rock Maddie darlin!!!! I just can't freaking wait to see ya summit Katahdin and touch that damn sign, I know it's gonna be epic, probably even make me cry even,lol. You just an awesome gal,God bless ya, ya got it lady, one foot in front of the other like you say....GO MADDIE GO

[@28105wsking]

You need to order Old Woodsman's Flydope. I'd send you some if I knew how. But you can order it on line and it really works. When I lived on a commune in Franconia New Hampshire, we used it all the time. It works for moskas, deerflies, horseflies, greenheads, and midgies as well as ticks! Great stuff!

[@lynnefinley4100]

OMG the bugs! Everyone I follow is bitten alive. I watch y’all and want to smack the crap out of them while you’re talking to us. Would a hazmat suit be too hot 🤪? Thought so. You are amazing!

[@jamesmartin4857]

Next time you go hiking try skin so soft from Avon for at least 2 weeks before your trip for your skin to get the softness or whatever it does that mosquitoes don't like and then continue to use during hikes.. mosquitoes hate that stuff and will not touch you...I work outside on the eastern shore of MD and they are big down here and they don't touch me..

[@tennesseeyaya1830]

Yes skin so soft or deet spray. The mosquitoes would drive me insane. You are a rock star Maddie.

[@annwroblewski2668]

I wonder what kind of repellent you're using. I always thought deet, at at least 25% worked the best. Those hilly, rocky parts look sooo strenuous, but you can do it Maddie. ♥️

[@leowolf9258]

Hey your doing great!!!!! Mustard is good for cramps and so ifs pickle juice. FYI

[@mrbscpds5801]

hang in there, were with you all the way, and anywhere you go after this