Official Approval and Civilization Checklist +0 mi

I got approval from the PCTA! It happened on Wednesday. My permit is now signed on my desk at home, ready to be carried for 2653 miles. Next steps involve buying a bunch of gear and continuing to improve my fitness level.

That's a short post on its own. I wanted to add something else to it, and my friend Max gave me an idea recently. After I finish the trail, I'll pretty much be going back to work ASAP. After the AT, I had a few weeks in order to re-acclimate to civilized society. So he suggested that I make a checklist for myself, for when I get back. Future Matt (PG'14 still?), here's what you'll need to do:

• Stop eating so much. Even though food is *everywhere*.
• Cook in ways other than boiling.
• Smell like soap. People think soap smells good.
• Ignore how everything smells fake and/or like food.
• Take showers. Like, every day. With soap.
• Do laundry. With laundry detergent.
• Wash your hands. With soap. Water is clean now. You don't need to filter it.
• Don't touch dirt. It's dirty.
• Don't wear the same clothes two days in a row.
• Don't take off your socks in public.
• Keep your shirt on in public.
• Don't take your pants off in public, even if you have shorts under them.
• Take off your jacket inside. Completely inconsistent with the pants rule, I know.
• Don't drink any caffeine for a few weeks.
• Adjust your sleep schedule slowly. An hour after sunset is a fine bedtime.
• Take breaks from screen time to stare at things far away.
• Go exercise. It won't just happen. Hiking is a good option.
• Make time to be alone. It won't just happen. Hiking is a good option.
• Carry earplugs. Civilization is loud. Especially cars.
• Be quiet inside. People are nearby. 
• Don't sing to yourself unless you're alone.
• Don't make noises when you stand up or stretch.
• Just say no to social engagements. You're not ready for big groups yet.
• Stand close to people you're talking to.
• Talk when you're with people. Silence is weird. 
• Don't talk about national politics. You've almost avoided the 2020 season. 
• Nobody cares about your hiking gear anymore. 
• Share anecdotes from your hike. That'll cover small talk for a few weeks.

Past Matt