Things haven't been going so well - No Hiking

Not my normal hiking video today.. instead I am getting a little personal and sharing why things haven't been so good recently and why I haven't been out walking, hiking or wild camping!
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Mentioned in this video;
↠ Coast to Coast Hike - • Wainwright's Coast to ...
↠ Favourite Hiking Gear of 2022 - • Favourite Hiking Gear ...
You may also be interested in;
↠ Moonrise Hike - • Moonrise Hike | Sturge...
↠ Filmed using my Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III - amzn.to/2KbQmId & Canon EOS 70D - amzn.to/2VZlnWo
↠ Music: www.epidemicsound.com/referra...
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Thank you for taking the time to watch my video, I appreciate it so much.
Mary 💚
#hiking #chronicpain #invisibleillness

[@simhamilton1762]

Hi Mary, thank you for your opened hearted message. Having also gone through ‘hitting rock bottom' an old man, Bernard, told me two things: 1) When you hit the bottom, you can firmly place your ladder and climb back up. But be kind to yourself and don’t climb too quickly. 2) Don’t allow people to feel sorry for you, let them admire your recovery. You have built a large family of people, that love what you do and who you are, it’s our time to return that love and support. Take your time and go for it, xx

[@afkeb941]

Even when you’re not smiling or if you’re feeling frustrated you are still perfect.

[@Ivorengland]

Thanks Mary. The trouble with most social media is that it can make people feel a failure because their lives aren’t ‘perfect’ like the people that post stuff. Personally I find this honest and truthful video should really help people. Everyone has their downs and ups. It’s good to see that sometimes. Take care and looking forward to seeing you on the trails again ❤

[@WMartinWelch]

I wish you a speedy recovery and return to the things you love to do. We are always here to support you as best we can.

[@padanfain7466]

Ah man, sorry to hear it. Started hiking a few years ago to help with anxiety/mental health and about 5-6 weeks ago I tore a ligament in my knee. A month later I tried to do my local climb and after a few km, it was agony again. Had to limp back to my car, feeling dejected and broke down in tears in my car. Haven't hiked since as it starts to twinge after a few km. Sometimes you just need to step back and get back to basics. I'ts just round the block and daily stretching for a few months for me. I've been watching u-tubers like yourself in between times to keep me motivated and inspired. Have a big internet hug and feel sure you will back at it soon.

[@angelicamason1650]

Thanks for your honesty, Mary. Wishing you all the very best.

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you Angelica ☺️

[@motheranddaughteride]

Take care Mary. It really is OK to look after our health, ourselves first. Winter is a time of rest and of, indeed, wintering. You’ll be back to your beloved hills soon enough. Love from across the Pennines.

[@geoffbrookes4594]

Hi Mary, only recently found your channel/blogs and enjoying catching up. Thank you for sharing this particular one, I can so relate to how you were feeling at the time. I’m sure your total honesty will have helped many others. Take care. Hugs 🤗. 🚂🚴‍♂️👣🇺🇦

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Welcome and thanks for your lovely comment! Apologies for the delay in replying ☺️

[@jhimmer2]

We were so sorry to hear of your injuries, Mary. I can identify. My husband and I hiked the Coast to Coast in June of this year, and soon after our return home came down with Covid, which for me developed into Long Covid. I spent months struggling with insomnia, anxiety, neuropathy, and fatigue, going from hiking an average of 12 miles a day to struggling to walk half a mile. But good has come from this experience. I've gotten better at accepting and trusting that God does indeed work all things to the good. I'm finally feeling like myself again and am up to two and a half miles with hills now, and I'm so very grateful. We're hoping to hike the Coast to Coast again next year to celebrate my recovery. We have so enjoyed the videos of your walks! They are filmed so beautifully and your beautiful smile is such an inspiration. Will keep you in prayer and hope you will soon be out in nature doing what you love.

[@topherjoe1]

I wish you all the best !

[@arguspanoptes9510]

I appreciate that you're not requiring sympathy but all the content has been lovely and well done for coping with the conditions.and recent injury . Huge respect to you for all you do.. Have a happy Christmas and new year

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

So kind of you to say Argus, thank you 😊 I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and New Year too 🎄

[@CC58]

Rest up and get well, Mary. Merry Christmas!

[@JenWalkingUK]

Mary, every video you post continues to inspire us all. Thank you for sharing this, I’m sure it can’t have been easy. As someone who was housebound for nearly 4 years with a hip injury, a lot of what you’re going really resonated with me and I walk every day now because I realised just how quickly life can change and take all the things we appreciate away. Wishing you a speedy recovery!!

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

That is so great to hear Dragon J, thank you for sharing this 😊

[@mattomite9097]

I was sitting here watching a review you did on a Mammot pack and now I’m watching this video. I’m so glad you posted. I also suffer from chronic migraines…to the point I’m disabled and I’m unable to work. I could explain further but after watching your video, I know you understand. I’ve been through a lot dealing with migraines and neck pain. I love the outdoors but my pain has prevented me from doing things like I used to do. Hike. Backpack, camp etc. I live in Michigan in the States. Our state is GORGEOUS and an outdoor paradise but it’s a constant reminder to me of what I can’t do. Thank you for posting this video. ❤❤❤. You are an amazing woman and I’m glad you had the courage to show everyone that beneath your smile is a human being with a painful condition. That condition may not always be shown in these videos, but it’s often always there. Thank you…thank you…THANK YOU!!!! People need to see how migraines affect people and how migraines can be debilitating. I wish you the very best on your journey in life and with your pain. If I could I would take that pain away from you but unfortunately I can’t figure that out for myself. I can only hope you find a course of treatment that continues to provide relief and allow you to traverse this crazy world.

[@amandaf8225]

I am in the same boat as you with a side of fibromyalgia. I often watch videos like these to live vicariously through others although I dream of a day I can at least make a gentle hike or go on a comfy camping trip even if I will pay for it later in pain. It's hard having your life redefined for you and prevent you from doing the things you once loved. I appreciate KZbinrs and other like yourself sharing those stories and spreading that awareness of invisible illnesses like these and how they impact our lives.

[@chrish3305]

Stunning video. Thank you for sharing! ☺️

[@sheilaweldum3222]

Thank you for sharing! Life has ups and downs! You’ve got this!

[@LynS216]

Sending you healing vibes and good wishes for a speedy recovery. Appreciate you sharing this. I love watching your videos because you show me places I have never seen before and you are such a light. Will be looking forward to your next one. Take care!

[@JustaReadingguy]

Life does go through phases. Thanks for sharing. Thanks for being gentle and joyous.

[@bettyjorodgers8552]

Will be praying for you. Thank you for sharing.

[@Wild-Camping-Geordie]

All the very best for the New Year ❤️

[@jeffreyrule8143]

Mary, thanks for sharing with us your heath situations. Hang in there and you will be back on trail. Happy Holidays and get well soon.

[@CastawayHikes]

I always love your positivity in your videos, it makes sense though that life has downs as well as the ups. I will be praying for your recovery and return to adventures

[@qed456]

Merry Christmas Mary and have a good rest

[@pettipaw]

I feel for you Mary. I broke my ankle in 2020 as well as having knee surgery later in 2020. The worst part of the recovery was being stuck indoors in bed for many weeks. I admit that I felt sorry for myself. It was hard to be patient. The mental aspect was much more challenging than the physical aspect. It was a long recovery. My partner built me a raised bed garden, so I could start gardening even before I was off crutches. I was just so happy to be outdoors. I also took up watercolor painting in 2020. I decided I needed a new non-physical hobby, so that I'd at least have something to distract myself from wanting to be outdoors. And now that I've recovered, I am hiking as much as possible, knowing that someday I may not be able to. I hope you find more ways to enjoy the outdoors during your recovery.

[@carolczina9235]

Best wishes to you as you heal. I hope you can get out soon.

[@Johnnywalleye1]

When I'm out hiking its a high my happy place so always in a good mode on the trail . Prayers for a speedy recovery and a Merry Christmas

[@ronhals6390]

Hang in there Mary, your an inspiration to everyone .

[@andrewdunmore]

Hope you are feeling better soon! Thanks for being so open and honest - as always your positivity shines through! I'm sure you will be back out hiking again soon, and I will look forward to your future videos! Take care! ☺

[@alank5754]

Mary, I discovered your channel fairly recently and have been loving all your videos. You are inspirational. You are a teacher. You are a motivator. You have certainly given me the impetus to plan some adventures for the coming year. I wish you the very best and that you will grow in strength with each passing day.

[@rebeccabecca6468]

Thanks for this video Mary, reminding us everything isn’t perfect. I’m feeling pretty fed up and frustrated at the moment too but I guess it’s the expected cycles of life. Sending hugs and I love you’ve been putting out water and food for the birds, I’ve been doing that too 😊

[@debranelson1987]

I truly believe that you will back out there doing what you love. Sending you peace, hope and joy.

[@el9418]

Yes, I do understand your frustration and do care about you. I hope you heal, feel better, and get outside again soon.

[@tim-youtubewatcher2726]

Well done Mary, you are human after all. My favorite words are acceptance and gratitude. Being able to accept everything as it is and being grateful for what we have is an attitude I find makes my life easier.

[@donaldgerig9515]

Oh Mary, you are such an inspiration to all. Keep up the good work of striving to be the best you can be - especially through adversity. Wishing you all the best. Don from Oregon

[@sloreweaver]

Mary, I wish you nothing but the best. I admire you so much.

[@carltonjohnston8408]

Thanks for all the great videos you’ve done this year, really is so nice watching your adventures. Hope you make a speedy recovery from your recent injuries and that your awful migraines subside to enjoy your passion to the full next year. Happy Christmas and holidays 🙂🙂

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you Carlton, it’s great to hear you have been enjoying the videos! I hope you have a great festive period 😁🎄

[@purrsephone2904]

Thank you, Mary. This is my first time watching your channel. I hope your ankle heals and your headaches decrease so that you can be outdoors again real soon.🪶

[@Peter-55]

Hi Mary, you have been and are an inspiration for me to think positively and get out there. Luckily I have not had any physical injuries recently, but I have had mental health issues from abuse. You will get better and recover, and I am so looking forward to seeing you out and about again. Take it slow at first. I am making plans for 2023 too and can't wait to be outside properly again. Have a great Christmas and good luck with your recovery 🥰🎄

[@stevenvarner9806]

It's good to see you on YT again. I appreciate every video you do whether that's hiking, a cooking video, or a small chat. I already knew about your health issues from past videos. Like all of us, do what you can and what makes you happy. Get well soon.

[@denisebryant89]

Thank you Mary for all your videos that you put out. I have had Chronic headaches just as the one s you describe and at times it feels like it is only you so your heart felt comments really help. Sending you very best wishes for the new year I look forward to your content and am sure you will be up in them there hills a. s. a. p ❤️

[@bartpatel2787]

Hi Mary continued success on your journey to health.

[@andywithers4567]

So sorry to hear about your health but good to hear you can see light at the end of this tunnel. I look forward to seeing your next clip from the trail, when you are fit and able. Until then, we all have your back catalogue to go through. Best wishes.

[@KirstenBayes]

Goodness, swift healing! Hope the festive period brings every blessing and you get thoroughly spoilt by the walking, the weather and lovely people next year.

[@anitavincent7447]

Mary, that you have endured all that you have for so many years does not evoke sorrow or sympathy but rather empathy and even more admiration for all you do. Thank you for letting us in. 🥰 Have a very Happy Christmas with your loved ones and may 2023 bring you nothing but good health, lots of love and luck and great happiness. 🙏🏻 🤗

[@LuckyTown77]

How awesome of you to share you. I am 64 and brushed death 3 consecutive years. The adjustments are rough, but you will get back at it . 🙏

[@nigelwright8010]

Hi Mary, so sorry to hear that. Regards your headache, I really sympathise with you. I suffered for years. Had all the tests and scans under the nhs but they had no idea. They recommended taking antidepressants. A route I didn’t want to go down. When holidaying in Spain things got worse, so I paid to see a private German doctor he recommended acupuncture. Three sessions later no more headaches. Apparently tension in my neck muscles restricted blood flow to my brain. Since then I occasionally have more acupuncture when I feel pain coming back. Might work for you? Good luck for the future. I so enjoy your inspirational videos.

[@michaelheyes7324]

We love you Mary. Look forwards to you back at em. Wish Derek all the best too. 🙂🙂

[@andrewmatley7688]

i feel for what your going through Mary i really do i enjoy your videos you post done a lot of them iv been walk 12+ years now had many injurys,mentel heath,ups and downs myself i always bounce back to doing my walks it keeps me going like you will bounce back to doing what you love best please take care Mary one day i hope to bumb into to you and say thank you for keeping me going many thanks you trooper.

[@exhibitjean]

I hope you feel better. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you so very much, I am doing so much better since I filmed this video ☺️

[@richardhale2449]

Hi Mary, sorry to hear about your troubles. Hang on in there things will get back to closer to normal before you know it. Stay positive and keep that beautiful smile going.

[@sydneybaldwin3514]

Oh Mary, I feel your pain with the migraines. Dreadful things. Hope you feel like yourself again soon, the outdoors is waiting for you . Wishing you a peaceful and merry Christmas 🎄

[@gary4983]

Mary, I may be your newest subscriber. I had not seen you before--chanced upon this video only today and I was so moved by your courage and honesty that I had to join your channel. I am sure I'll enjoy catching up on your previous adventures and so look forward to the new ones you will no doubt post about before long. I'm wishing you peace and joy.

[@suecox8355]

Oh Mary! When I was having migraines, I had 30 minutes after first flicker in my eyes to get where I needed to be because I would lose sight in both eyes. During that time in my life there were no medication for migraines except go to hospital and get pain injection that knocked me out for about 8 hours. I am absolutely amazed that you have hiked as much as you have. You have always inspired me, put smiles on my face. Love your videos. Prayers for you Mary and hope you feel better soon. Merry Christmas Mary! ❤️ Merry Christmas Derick!

[@dawnthird2538]

Wow. What a lousy time you have been having! So glad it sounds like the light is at the end of the tunnel! I know you weren't doing this for sympathy but definitely deserve some!! Thanks for sharing. Makes people see that life, unfortunately, isn't all roses but that we get through them and then enjoy the good times even more. Have a lovely Christmas & take care. x

[@jojoandroses]

Thanks so much for sharing Mary. Ive felt the same way when injured and so appreciate your openness. Hope you heal quickly.

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

So kind Julaine, thank you - I am doing so much better since this video went out ☺️

[@hannamcgivern4709]

Thank you for posting about your recent experiences. My partner has had a permanent headache for several years and no pain killers touch it. We have no idea what causes it and we haven't found a solution yet. I had never heard of chronic headache syndrome, it was actually a huge relief to hear someone else has gone through the same thing (not that its pleasant for you), its just nice to not feel so alone. When I watch your videos I love how happy you are but its also nice to see when things aren't so great because it reminds me that we all have bad patches. I really loved watching this video.

[@suehillman7189]

Oh Mary, you will get back out there, I love your videos. Use this time, as you say, to study maps and plan some great adventures for next year. By the time spring comes you will be all rested and mended. Wishing you a lovely Christmas and an accident free New Year. Xxx

[@ivarskokinsuk]

Hello Mary! I hope you make fast recovery from your recent injuries,all your videos are great.Wishing you all the best!

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

So kind of you to say so, thank you 😊

[@scotthouston6621]

Things will get better. Keep the faith!🙏

[@davidalexander287]

That was a truly inspiring video. It is really nice that despite your challenges, you still think about others. I have a knee injury, but my hikes next year are already planned, and like you , waiting for the day I start.

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you David - I hope your knee heals quickly 😊

[@richardhigham7467]

That looked like a difficult vlog to do, however your honesty and positive grit 💪to look forward is remarkable. Sending positive vibes to you 🤘

[@ibrazier]

Just found this channel! Thanks for sharing your adventures and see you on the trails soon!

[@KingSadim]

I subscribed because I'd just climbed Ben Lomond and a KZbin search brought your vid up. I really liked your energy and vibe, saw that you did lots of similar vids so I subscribed. This video doesn't hurt your image, anyone with any life experience knows that life is ups and downs. Wishing you a quick recovery.

[@tommckinney1489]

Wow, Mary, what a few months you've had! Stay strong, you'll come out of this soon. Prayers for you.

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks so much Tom, I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and New Year 😊

[@danrichardson4623]

TY for sharing your story and situation. Get well! Sending positive thoughts your way. You’ve been an inspiration and this only adds to that. ❤️✨

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you so much Dan 😊

[@nrgltwrkr2225]

Wow! This video couldn't have come at a better time for me! Sending so much love and support, and applauding your achievements!!! I was typing and at 7:36 I stopped typing, because I was going to advise exactly what you started talking about: diet changes , water, etc., because those fixed my problems too. LOL! Good for you! Mine was un-diagnosed food sensitivities (not allergies) to weird stuff like ...almonds, broccoli, etc. (who knew??). I needed to hear you say, "I will be out there again. I will hike again." I recently broke a foot and dislocated a shoulder and your words meant so much to me!!! I am going to start my list of the places I will hike as soon as I am healed. Happy Holidays! And thanks again so very, very much!

[@topherjoe1]

I wish you a speedy recovery!!!

[@lizwallace273]

I'm so sorry about your recent struggle with illness and injury. You are very brave to share. Please know that so many people care about you and wish you well. I understand the frustration of an ankle injury. I fell down the stupid stairs in my own house three years ago and broke my ankle in two places. The crutches and the boot are so annoying! They make the smallest things like picking up around the house or making a meal so hard! But you will recover and you'll be back out there in due time. I hope you have access to physical therapy. I went a couple of times a week as I healed and it helped so much with whole body recovery, helping maintain cardio fitness and working on balance, as well as flexibility and strength in the ankle itself. Best wishes to you and your family for wonderful holidays!

[@walkietalkietraveller2932]

just reading about that injury made me wince... hope you are back to walking without pain.

[@sdhales50]

Love all your videos. Love your smile. Something else I have realized is that you are an extremely tough, resilient women. You can overcome this!

[@antheablackmore5838]

You’re human, delightful, and honest….we all have our bad days, our health pain, fears etc etc…..enjoy your garden that’s where I love to be when I need that stop….sending healing hugs and thanking you for your honesty ❤️

[@wildcamphavenoclue3160]

❤ I hope you are feeling better soon. I can relate I suffer with chronic headache and suffer with chronic mechanical lower back it's limited my ability to hike I wish you back to good health ❤

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks so much, it’s an awful thing to suffer with isn’t it. I hope you manage to get yours under control enough to be able to get out in nature and on walks again soon ☺️

[@thewindmystic3779]

Thanks for your honesty Mary. It’s ok to not be ok. As someone with the nickname ‘Calamity Jane’ believe me there have been too many occasions when I’ve been where you are with the frustration of not being able to get out and do what you love. You’re doing the right thing by planning for when you can and thinking of all the wonderful adventures to come. This too shall pass and you’ll be out there again very soon. Be kind to yourself and give yourself time to heal. The world will still be waiting when you’re ready.

[@vickiebartnicki4216]

You are still smiling! Thanks for sharing.

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Always! 😁😁

[@larrynease4805]

Your videos gave me the determination to do the PCT...it took me two years, but I did it. Thank you for giving me the inspiration. You hit a rough spot but will be back strong in the spring. I hope to see you one day on the trail. Love from Acton, CA.

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

That is amazing Larry!! Well done - what an achievement 🙌

[@sharrison3974]

Wishing you a full recovery and a peaceful Christmas. Hopefully you'll be back out on trail soon

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks so much, I hope you have a wonderful Christmas too 😊

[@jamesgwyn2617]

Hope you are feeling better soon you do what you need to do Mary god bless you (: Have a merry Christmas and happy new year♥️

[@stephankober1823]

Many thanks for this video, it really means a lot for to show that people in social media are not perfect. So even though all of your videos are awesome, this may be around the most remarkable ones. Thank you for all your inspiring work and your lovely smile. Things will change and better times are to come. Happy new year Mary.

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you for your kind words Stephan, I really appreciate that. 😊

[@dread2884]

That's rotten luck Mary! Keep smiling and have a great big happy vegan Christmas. A list of future walks is always cheering when you're stuck in the house. You'll be out there soon. Look forward to those Spring hikes :)

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks Dread, I’ll be out as soon as I can 😁 Hopefully before spring 🤞

[@Woodthrush]

Mary, I did watch all of your PCT vids...twice. I was inspired even more by your journey when you revealed your ongoing health issues. You pushed through despite your challenges. I retired early and moved near the AT so I could section hike it. First year I sprained my ankle and was sidelined for 3 months. This year I fell down my stairs and after 6 months of PT, I still am not able to backpack. I know the frustration! I did go through a depression for sure but started to focus on what I could do....just like you are doing. I sure am learning how to roll with the punches (lol) and know when I get back on the trail I will love it that much more. Hang in there! I am sending healing energy your way. Here's to our Happy Trails whether we are hiking or taking some rest time. 🌈🌄🙏

[@topherjoe1]

I wish you a speedy recovery

[@carolinetomkinson760]

So sorry to hear of your recent injuries and illness. I hope you soon get back to your hiking. I am just starting and your vlogs are great helping me get my gear and motivated. Sending you hugs. 💖🤗🥰xx

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks so much Caroline. If there are ever any questions you have please don't hesitate to ask and I'll be happy to help where I can 😊

[@dustyoldhat]

Speedy Recovery to you Mary! You'll be back on top before you know it.

[@TheSupersomerset]

Hope you’re feeling better. Love your channel btw.

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you Mark, so much better now ☺️

[@simonhawkins7004]

You'll be good to go soon .. soldier on through, and before you know it, you will be putting your woes behind .. Great videos, and I enjoy your channel a lot .. 😀 👍 x

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you Simon 😊

[@jasonburke2596]

Get well soon Mary. Look after yourself!

[@donald7305]

I love you Mary, hope you get well soon. Happy Christmas Mary and a Wonderful New Year, ❤️ 💕

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks Donald, I hope you have a great Christmas and New Year too 😁

[@mlee1123]

Good morning, Mary. It's good to hear your reality. I suppose we all face our different circumstances. For myself I ask God for a "smile" each day. When that's my focus, it perks up my entire day. Best wishes for a full recovery and a Merry Christmas.

[@bertman4]

Thank you for sharing.

[@milda0820]

Thank you for sharing. Im sorry You got hurt💖 Happy Hollidays💖💖💖

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you Milda, I hope you have a lovely festive period too ☺️

[@RacerRich1]

I hope you have a speedy recovery from your injuries and are able to get back to hiking as soon as possible. I also experienced a series of injuries that are preventing me from hiking. I know how tough it can be to have to take time off from activities we enjoy, but it's important to take the time to heal properly so that you can fully enjoy those activities again in the future. In the meantime, I hope you are able to find other ways to stay active and engaged, and that you have the support you need to get through this challenging time. Wishing you the best of luck on your road to recovery!

[@ItsaCampingThing]

I hope you feel better soon Mary

[@howardmcknight9773]

So sorry to hear you you have been struggling with health problems recently and hope you are feeling much better now Mary and you can feel your foot on the mend, they say things come in 3s, ribs, migraine and now your foot, maybe one thing to come out of it is your not walking in the cold and dark days at present and you can look forward to getting out knowing the weather will improve and the days will get longer, it will also be a good opportunity for you to get on with your book, I hope you and Derek have a lovely Christmas and a Happy and healthy New Year to both of you.

[@oldrok]

I understand where you are coming from as I have had some disappointment in my life as well. Things will and do get better. One thing about these temporary setbacks is that they make the good days so much better. Stay Safe and Get Well. Hugs.

[@Kathy.Thorne]

Thank you for this video Mary. Thank you for your honesty. Our health, both physical and mental, is something that is so easily overlooked. Take care of yourself and stay safe xxx

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks so much Kathy ☺️

[@mikeg2916]

It's very nice of you to share this with everyone. I think we all have times when things don't feel great and you don't have motivation to do things you enjoy. This could be due to physical injury, mental health or life in general. We all need to hear that you are human and have days like most of us. I wish you all the best and can't wait to see you back enjoying your hikes and photography. I have gone through these kinds of days and suffer with chronic depression. People see me as a funny and smiling person all the time but they don't know how I feel or what I'm going through. Take care and have a happy New year!!!!! 🙏💕

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you so much for your lovely words Mike and I am sorry to hear you also struggle at times. I also wish you all the best and that your life is filled with many more good days than bad ones 😊

[@mikeg2916]

@@MarysOutdoorAdventures thanks for your kind words. I have been having more good days than bad.

[@edshelnutt1347]

Thanks you for your candid talk about your setbacks. We all have them at one time or another. Mine are age related=I'm about to turn 70 this next year, and that comes with a number of issues. There are simply some things I can no longer do comfortably or enjoy, so those have gone by the wayside. I'm currently getting PT so that I can resume distance hiking this spring and summer here in the US, including section hiking the AT again, hiking the Foothills trail as a thru-hike, and then the Benton Mackaye Trail afterwards. Ambitious planning than may not work out. You have far more serious health concerns than I do, and you , at face value, deal with them with grace and good humor. Your admirers will continue to support your efforts, and listen to chat about setbacks. Don't worry about us. Give yourself the time you need to heal, follow your doctor's advice, and just enjoy every day. We'll all be around to cheer you on. :)

[@ruskiny280]

God bless you Mary, We love you.

[@dcaudwell]

Thank you for sharing your reality. I totally empathise! I fell on trail in the Vancouver Island mountains in August 2021, broke my tibia and fibula, got helicoptered out, had surgery within a couple of days, and then had a long period of rehab until early Spring 2022. It was so frustrating not to be out hiking for months, when normally I hike 2 - 3 days every week. This past summer I got back to small hikes on easy terrain before a planned second surgery this past August (to get the metal work out of my leg!). Finally, I am beginning to feel almost back to my normal (although much, much less fit!) self. Feeling frustrated and de-motivated, feeling low or depressed, and dislocated from any normal sense of who you are, and feeling like you are letting yourself and others around you down - these are just ordinary, human reactions to what you have been (and still are) going through. I can't even imagine what it's been like for you trying to navigate this difficult time "in public"! Anyhow, I so glad you are feeling your "mojo" returning, a flicker of excitement as you begin to see your future self back out there doing what you love. Planning - that's always a good sign! So, no need for apologies - your authentic self (like everyone's authentic self) is always to be listened to and respected -and thanks for publicly modelling the courage to do that!

[@JustBlondie]

It really is refreshing to see/hear something so real and from the heart. It makes me feel less alone to know these things for some crazy reason 😊 Thank you for being so kind to explain something so personal and heartfelt 😊 Keep going kidda, and I’ll try too lol 😊

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks so much for your kind words, I’m so glad you appreciated the video for how it was intended ☺️

[@janmariolle]

Hi Mary, Thanks for this video. I have been grounded at home since my mother has needed full time care. I watched every day of your PCT hike wishing I could join you. But here I am into my seventh year of no backpacking, and yes, it’s frustrating when we cannot do what we love, but something happens inside as we struggle to understand what life brings us. I feel very close to you- even though I don’t know you. That consistent “Good Morning!” was as real as being curled up in a ball of pain. It is hard to fully live life. Thanks for sharing. You are a remarkable woman and you inspire me to carry on with an open heart, unafraid that the difficult days completely define me.

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Good morning Jan! 😁 Sorry for such a delay in replying, I'm playing catch up today which I am so ashamed of that I have left it so long. Thank you for your kind words and I send you all my love and happiness back to you 🤗

[@charlessullivan5370]

Sorry to hear about your injuries and the mental anguish that stems from them. As someone who has often dealt with depression, I can empathize with you, especially the health benefits derived from being in the wild, and being temporarily deprived of them due to injury. I just turned 69 years old two days ago. I tend to think of life as yin and yang or opposites. One could not know joy without also knowing sorrow. It is the darkness that shows us the light. It is cold that allows us to experience warmth. There would be no mountains without valleys. Embrace all of it because these emotional states are part of being alive and human. I appreciate your authenticity. Take heart, dear woman, the clouds will part and you will see and feel the sun again. Thoreau said: "In wildness is the preservation of the world." The wild in you answers to the wildness in nature, for both are one and the same. All is One and One is all. May you and solace and health in that knowledge.

[@MarysOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks Charles and I’m sorry to hear about your struggles too. It’s very true what you talk about with the yin and yang of life, temporarily not being able to do certain things really do make you appreciate them even more when you can. 😊

[@kokopelau6954]

Good luck. I've been stuck on the same wheel for awhile.

[@kelwenator]

I think you are aware that there are many people out here who appreciate your videos, who sympathize with you and relate to you, who very much appreciate your honesty and attitude toward all of life, the good and bad, and who wish you well. I hope that helps a bit. I think it probably does. So I add my voice to those thanking you and hoping for your quick return to good health and happiness.