WINNER OF THE COVETED 2011 NATIONAL INDIE EXCELLENCE BOOK AWARD! What happens when a middle-aged couple with no previous backpacking experience, decides to test their 14-year marriage and spend six months hiking the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine in one continuous hike? Will their motto of "Quitting is not an option" be a blessing or a curse? Travel with "Windtalker" and "Mom," as they wrestle with their personal weaknesses and capitalize on each other's strengths; and in doing so, gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to make and keep a marriage strong. "Solemates" is not a daily chronicle of trail life but rather a candid, introspective and sometimes humorous look into the range of emotions experienced during the pursuit of such a life-changing adventure. It is a warmhearted journal depicting lessons in perseverance, human nature, compassion, understanding, and teamwork. Their stories, and those of their thru-hiking companions, reveal insights into the human spirit and refreshing perspectives on what is truly important in life. Read Less