I’ve just finished 5 days “real hiking”, and still ready for more. It’s been a week of firsts.
Big decision each night is weather to stop at a Shelter which are big 3 sided cabins that will protect you from the rain. Tend to be many people there, sleeping side by side. I have diagnosed many new cases of sleep apnea and will be making appropriate referrals to Dr.  E. 
Other choice is to camp in the woods or campsites using your tent.
It’s been raining almost every day (and night).
One night I decided it was this for me to camp alone in the woods. Turned out it poured that night. I did stay warm and dry. However, about 2  AM I heard rumbling outside the tent.  Checked outside and saw what appeared to be  a large grizzly bear. Fortunately,  had my albuterol inhaler.  Two  puffs of Proventil and he ran right back into the woods. No problem for w rest of the night. I did have to pack my tent and equipment in the rain to get started that morning. Sounds like  fun  right!
I would say  40% of the time I’m thinking this is really great.  That is usually when there are great views and sights or waking through the woods on level ground. 50% of the time is usually up and down rather steep terrain, and I’m thinking “this is tough, but I’m pretty sure I can get better at this”  10% of the time, I’m thinking “what did I sing up for here!.  Legs, knees, back and feet seem to be holding out so far. Main concern is stumbling or tripping on rocks with my pack of.
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Out of Maryland into Pennsylvania