Day 152
Ocian in view! O! The joy!
August 25th, 2010
I'm walking across America.
That's the idea, at least. I'm walking westward from New York City for nine months or so. If everything goes according to plan, I'll be in Oregon when the clock runs out. If nothing goes according to plan, maybe I'll end up in Peru or Mongolia or Pennsylvania. You can read all about the details of my trip if you're so inclined.
Email me at matt@imjustwalkin.com
Subscribe to my email list
Here's my progress so far:
Oh Joy!
Congratulations. You made it. I will miss you daily pics. I feel like Ive seen America through your eyes. I’m so glad your Mom and Dad could be there to celebrate such an adventure. Karla
Yes!! Great job Matt. You have walked from ocean to ocean!!! Now if you can only spell it. But that’s alright, you’re an engineer!! I guess you’ll have to get a ghost rider for your book!
Simpleton!
IS THIS THE END???
LIKE REALLY THE END OF THE END?
Someone slap me.
I am happy and depressed all in one shot.
I love ya people… Matt , my family and I send hopes and joys to you and you family and you friends.
I feel like a part of me is lost.
Someone please tell me that’s a river or a sound or something he still needs to cross!!!!??????
Breathe, Craig…breathe. It will be okay. I don’t know how…but it will.
Absolutely fantastic trip. Thanks for having us all along Matt!
I have followed your journey and I just wanted to say congratulations! What an AMAZING AMAZING accomplishment. I hope you are forever proud of yourself for this. I hope your homecoming is wonderful:)
Oooooo Mannnnn!!!!!! Gettin’ giddy!
Go, go, go.
Just like NY, only backwards!
Are you in that ocean yet!?!?!?!
Don’t catch cold!
Don’t drop the droid in the water!
I’m looking forward to the pic of the dip in the Pacific, a perfect end to the journey, like his dip in the Atlantic was a perfect start to the trip .. http://imjustwalkin.com/2010/03/27/starting-things-off/
there you are again Gigi with the perfect link… thanks for all your great links on this Matt journey… it’s been fun!
Thanks Gigi, I went back to first post and Matt had only 4 postings had to add something myself, Wow his following has really grown since day 1. Again thanks for link.
Do you hear that? I think it’s calling your name.
So glad you made it!! Yay Matt!!
oh the beer is cold. And the end is near, so near…….Matt…you did it..you are safe…you are sound….
not saying that is how it is gonna be after you dippp….but we will see then.
rockaway beach…we have been waiting for you since Matt’s confusion at Rockaway Township, NJ…he said..almost there yet?
From sea to shining sea!
Awesome Matt. Looks beautiful and rough waters too. Hooray for you on completion of a long wonderful journey. I’m going to miss this everyday excursion of ours here.
Would this song be appropriate for the occasion? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVI254QGSQ4&feature=search
Diane in Ohio-I like this song and Etta James-you rock girl!
Don, you’re back. Did you send your wife outside to look at Haley’s Comet? : )
I will play Etta James anytime I look at this picture. Awesome choice, Diane.
Nice choice! I love it, am singing now.
That IS perfect Diane!! I have tears in my eyes…tears of joy….
Kisses and hugs and backflips and woot woots and hallelujahs and praise the Lord and congratulations Matt!!!!!!!!!!!!
Safe & sound to Rockaway Beach! So happy you had a good trip and met lots of nice people. What memories you will have for a lifetime!
Ditto on THAT Karen in AR – SAFE & SOUND!
Time for that Pacific Dip! No full Monty please, a half Matty will do splendidly!
Okay, I really did LOL!! ;-)
O! The Joy!!!!!!!!! Congrats Matt!!
I bet you can’t wait to take the plunge. ENJOY……….This will be in your heart forever. Congratulations! I’m glad you made it safe and sound.
I’m happy and sad, crying too. Yeah for Matt because that’s quite an accomplishment in ones life to do what he did. Not all of us can say we’ve ever done something like this. Sad for me because I’ve loved coming here everyday, all day long. But happy again for Matt.
virtual tissue my dear?
I’m so happy for you Matt. You did something that only people dreams about. I know you have to be so proud of yourself too. All of us that has been following you are very proud of our Hobo Matt.
Will there be a slow-mo recap of you walking, not running, into the ocian?
oh the things you learn – Matt – http://www.nationalgeographic.com/lewisandclark/journey_leg_13.html
Wow…too cool! Here I thought Matt was just excited to reach the Pacific, but he’s quoting William Clark. Love it!
I know – I had to go google “ocian” – I thought, surely not after all this, “OUR” Matt misspelled a word? Lo and behold – no – just an appropriate quote!
And I learned something everyday from following Matt’s blog!
AGAIN, WOOHOO! CONGRATS to MATT! I’m so happy for you Matt! Thanks again for sharing!
And for INSPIRING!
Please know that when I thank Matt for sharing, I thank all who posted/shared such lovely, insightful, informative, funny, witty, silly and “etc” comments.
My eyes can’t take anymore staring at a screen (not just Matt’s blog), I’ve had a busy day at work today in IT.
I’ll check the blog in the A.M. Good night everyone! Hugs to all and especially to Matt!
Good night Candice! Talk to you in the a.m.
We love you Candice! Take care of those eyes!
Oh my gosh! How cool is that?! I too thought he was so excited he misspelled his words. How neat that he is doing what Lewis and Clark did only in a little different manner. Yeah Matt! Yeah Lewis and Clark!
As soon as I saw the title, I knew exactly what Matt meant. Around the Pac NW, there are tons of Lewis & Clark informational placards everywhere notating their trip through these parts. There were tons of misspellings from both Lewis & Clark, but they quote them exactly as they wrote things…so it hit me that he’s finally made it (even if we can’t see him dipping into the Pacific). What a phenomenal trip!
Lewis – “Umm, Clark…”
Clark – “Not now, I’m waxing poetic!”
Lewis – “I really think you should…”
Clark – “Hush, I’m almost done.”
Lewis – “Yeah but…”
Clark – “Slience, my friend, I am watching the ink dry and seal this moment forever in history! Ok, now… what?”
Lewis – “You totally misspelled ‘ocean’.”
that’s just too cute todd!!!!
Even though I misspelled “silence” in a joke about misspelling? LOL! ;)
that made it even more perfect Todd….. lol
Oh dang….again, you guys crack me up!!!!
Oh that’s very cool!!! Thanks for the link.
Oh wow!!! And here I thought it was a hasty typo! As I’ve said before, my Matt is so clever. Yes….he’s mine. He’s all of yours too since he shared his life and journey with you. <3
Thanks for the link Candice. I’ll use this when we study Lewis and Clark at school this year.
This is so cool! Thanks for the link Candice.
Thank you for the link Candice! I agree, I didn’t think Matt would misspell a word and that maybe he was excited, too. I know he’s a smart guy, but his intelligence to come up with the things he comes up with occasionally shocks me. :-)
thank you for that info, Candice!!! good to know :0)
I can hear the ocean http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dh3q_6b6OTQ
Thanks again Matt for letting all of us come along on your walk…… : )
Oh the Joy!
Congrats Matt, I’ll miss reading your updates every day. I’m truly jealous of your experience, thanks for sharing it with all of us.
*ROFL* Um…
I have enjoyed seeing the US through your eyes and pictures these last couple of months. What an amazing journey. Congrats on a terrific accomplishment! You have inspired me to take my own little trip–an 8 week road trip next summer with my 3 kids to see parts unknown. The planning is already underway and I can’t wait!
That sounds great, Jenn!!!
Congrats Matt!! Have fun!!!
i am at a loss for the spelling and/or definition of O C I A N. perhaps a play on phonetics as in OH SEE IN (the ocean) ??
@Candice, thank you, i should have read the link on your post regarding lewis and clark, first. now i understand.
I don’t know about an ocian, but I see the OCEAN!
@janine, from @candice: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/lewisandclark/journey_leg_13.html
Another informative link
http://itre.cis.upenn.edu/~myl/languagelog/archives/001496.html
*pout* William Clark couldn’t spell! *ROFL*
Jeff where are you man? Your missing it. Or are you sitting in silence raising your glass in honor of Matt? I would imagine that’s what you’re doing. Silently celebrating and staying out of traffic! lol.
After walkin 3100 miles he can spell it OSHYN if he wants. Congrats Matt!!
That’s the truth, Nick!
Damn straight! I totally guffawed at this one! ;-)
Hey, I wasn’t the only one who got so excited that I forgot how to spell! (Thanks Matt, you are such a dear)!
My computer is running slow…….just got the old Lewis and Clark thing. Thanks, learn something everyday on here!
Oh my!
All the best, buddy. It’s been wonderful watching your progress thru this web site!
matt is an edjamacated hobo
See? That’s my problem, cuz I ain’t edjamakated.
:0) – he shure doobie
Congrats Matt !!! Thanks for the trek cross country. : )
Congrats Matt! Thanks for the good times!
Yay!!!!!! I am so happy for you Matt. I’m actually getting teary!!!
CONGRATULATIONS
MUCH PEACE, FROM MICHELLE IN PROVIDENCE!!
Yes, the joy! There’s nothing like water to make us feel at home. Nice!
Way to go Matt I’m happy for you. I’m sure it was quite a journy.
I’m glad I jumped ahead or I would have missed his finish. I have been doing my best to try and catch up, I work to muck overtime. I feel I have gotten to know some of you. I was hoping Barb V would be here. I have a brother who lives in the same city she dose. Anyway I’m from Midland Mich.
Congratulations!!! Thank you for allowing us to join you in the experience. Best wishes :)
What’s an Ocian?
@Robert: scroll up and click on the weblink from Candice
I wonder how many people are on here today, website sure is acting slow.
Probably a couple-hundred-thousand or so.
And I just commented today or was it yesterday, about how Matt has not misspelled a word. And now look, he has gone and done it. Oh well, like Nick said, after 3100 miles he can spell it any way he wants. “What a Man”!!!
He was quoting Clark from Lewis and Clark when they hit the ocean. Click on the link Candice gave and read. It explains it.
Congrats again Matt, on a well-executed adventure. Thanks for opening up your life to all of us for the past 5 months. Enjoy the party! There’s going to be cake!!!
Encore?
America the Beautiful
Words by Katharine Lee Bates,
Muse by Jeff from New Jersey.
O beautiful for spacious skies, – (Big sky Montana)
For amber waves of grain, – (Indiana)
For purple mountain majesties – (view of the Rockies)
Above the fruited plain! – (those wheat seeds on the bridge shot)
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee (our thoughts conversations on ‘deity’s’)
And crown thy good with brotherhood – (the people (all) he met along the way)
From sea to shining sea! = (need I say more.)
O beautiful for pilgrim feet – (every step a adventurer has ever taken)
Whose stern impassioned stress – (the mighty Matt mobile)
A thoroughfare of freedom beat – (highways, roadways…and “primitive-ways”)
Across the wilderness! – (god bless all 11 states)
America! America!
God mend thine every flaw, – (roads dipping into water?)
Confirm thy soul in self-control, – (not seeing/showing the bad)(boy on bike “sorry”)
Thy liberty in law! – (no cops bothered him)
O beautiful for heroes proved (war memorials, statue of liberties, road memorials)
In liberating strife. (one man’s walk, vicariously shared)
Who more than self their country loved (yellow flags at mile markers >
And mercy more than life! – <for Iraq war VETS who died )(RIP)
America! America!
May God thy gold refine – (every ray of sunshine through clouds)
Till all success be nobleness (Matt’s lasting impression on America)
And every gain divine! – (we who have shared his walk/dream)
O beautiful for patriot dream (Lewis and Clark highway section)
That sees beyond the years (much wisdom passed on through matt’s visits)
Thine alabaster cities gleam (Fargo North Dakota Shot)
Undimmed by human tears! (World trade center, though not ever shown)
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee (grotto picture off the path in Minnesota)
And crown thy good with brotherhood – (hat’s off to Big Scott ! )
From sea to shining sea!
O beautiful for halcyon skies, (all shots of sky and clouds and bridges)
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the enameled plain! (as shown through the eye of Hobo & a droid phone)
Jeff, that still brings tears to my eyes. You are definitely creative and talented.
nicely done, Jeff :-)
love it Jeff! Gonna miss stuff like this so much! I need tissues!
That’s a topper Jeff. thanks
That is great!
Really really good Jeff. How’d you come up with all that to match? That had to of taken some thinking there. But one exception though, I thought he did get talked to by some police? Or was that just you? he he.
Dayum Jeff….
I almost choked on my own adam’s apple.
Good Job.
Simply marvelous my dear friend Jeff, simply marvelous!
What a way to wrap up 5 months of travel. That was great Jeff. Matt – boy o boy, I’m going to miss you and your daily pictures. I gone across country through your eyes and camera lense and for now that will have to do. Enjoy your family tonight and thanks for the memories.;
Very nice, Jeff!
Nice work Jeff…a lot of thoughtful work went into this, you are a man with a special heart…peace to you our friend and to your family.
so awesome!!! you’ve completed your journey woo hooo!!!!! thank you so much for sharing your mission with us, it’s been an honor “accompanying” you on this trip.
Hey, Hey, the gangs all here, Lets give Matt a great big cheer!
CHEER!!!!!!! Ready…ok! 2 – 4 – 6 – 8 – Who do we want to emulate?? MATT! MATT! GooooOOOO Matt!! A cheer and “cheers!” to Matt and everyone who helped him reach the beach!!!!! xoxoxoxoxo
Congratulations. I have enjoyed living vicariously through your adventure since I found it in May. Too bad, you never made it as far south as Utah. Good on ya, man!
Congrats, Matt, on a truly wonderful and inspiring journey!
Ok who was taking dates for the date Matt would reach the ocian. I think it was Jeff from NYC
Yes, Joisy Jeff was. Don hit the date the closest. Wonder if Don is psychic or something. Congrats Don on a good pick!
Matt, did you make it yet? The red line shows you in the ocean! Or, um, “ocian,” if you prefer!
Am I too late for the party? Tried to get home as early as possible and I’m glad I’m here now. Woohoo for Matt! Take that dip in the ocean and record it for posterity. Thank you for letting us tag along for the journey of a lifetime. Hugs!
Heck no, the party is just getting GOOD! I just sent Matt a pic of me, my computer and my raised glass of wine as a cheers to him….you know….for the book. heehee
Did anyone guess Aug. 25th
Don – the Mayor of Hobo Nation – guessed the 23rd or 24th. By the way is Don back from his bus trip yet? He’s missing the party!
Julie
The bus trip is tomoorow and I am back. My wife wants to computer. I am have to tie her up with duct tape so she will let me do my job!!! Imagine the nerve of her!
I am so excited I can not think, type or – honey-I will have to put more duct tape on you if you do not cooperate!
:)
Oh the hilarity!!!!! Cracking up over here! >sip< Cheers to Hobo Nation!!!
LOL!!!!
I happen to work for a tape company (seriously) so I’m sure I can help ya out there. Just kiddin! Tell your wife that you’re just being extremely dedicated to the position in which you were elected. How’s that sound?? :-D
Good-But I am going to need more duct tape. She is really not cooperating-can you imagine?
Imagine the nerve!! Interfering with an official job! Email me your address and I’ll get that tape to you pronto!
I guessed Aug 25, 4:00 pdt….
Anna One
I thank you are the winner-I will concede to you as an honest Mayor of Hobo Nation/Planet-now I sound like a politican and I do not like that.
This song is for you Anna One – hope you enjoy! – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pyC7WnvLT4
think-think before you type Don!
Don, thanks for the song! Did you see my joke comment earlier. You said you had to leave and your wife needed the computer too and then I read another post of yours. I wrote “Don, you’re back. Did you tell your wife to go outside and see Haley’s Comet.”–so you could return to the Hobo Nation! Cheers…
Oh, I thought you were going to make Anna listen to this .. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inQWb2sgiPc&feature=search
Good job, Anna! How did we miss that? Why did we think it was Don? Congratulations to you, Anna! You get the virtual trophy!
Yeah right. Okay. Sorry here but I think it’s a joke right? I mean we ALL could have guessed that one yesterday or even earlier today.
Congrats Anna for guessing the day!
He’s gotta be swimmin’ by now. Think?
Way to spell the “Lewis and Clark way”…so historian of you…congrats…kudos…just posted a little on Matt’s journey and about you guys and America…the land we learned more about because of Matt…not just the land, nor the people but also what it is “made of”… http://www.jre1.wordpress.com
Jim you are a great man. I went through your website a couple of days ago and was very impressed, especially about North Platte NE. And the choir was very moving. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. May God bless you in every way possible.
Wow Doris, you went through the whole site in a few days?? You must have skipped all our chatter! :-)
umm..I think she means Jim’s site right Doris? No one could ever make it through Matt’s! We talk to much! he he he.
That was awesome Jim
Thanks Jim. We won’t give up either. Your article made me cry.
Jim, that was great! I love your writing – very insightful.
Formerly Ed L I just thought you mite like to know where I’m from. I wish I had joined in sooner.
Thanks Julie now we know. Congrats to Don.
My gosh I go into the kitchen to check to see about dinner and there’s like 50 more comments! Not really but sure seems like it. ha ha. We are all so excited for Matt and anxiously await the pics of his arrival at the caboose and the beach. Thanks to Rockaway Chamber of Commerce for setting up a greeting with Matt and his family. There won’t be any sleeping tonight for sure. Bon fire on the beach perhaps?
Well between the time I drove home from work – there WERE/ARE 50+ more comments added! :)
O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!
O frabjous day! let’s FUTTERWACKEN…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDhFVZwfe3c&feature=related
Matt
I am so happy for you and your family. This has good to be such a rewarding event and to have your family there to help you celebrate is even sweeter.
Go for the ocean – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pl0Di4Fhdy8
Perfect!!! Loveit! I’m getting my groove on now. HA!
God bless Matt. God bless us each and every one!
I was just about to ask were is Don he has to have a song on youtube picked out for this occasion
おめでとうがざいます！！congratulations!!! you made it, I have really enjoyed visiting this daily to watch your progress! In fact I will miss seeing your walking adventures. Thanks so much for sharing your trip with all of us and again Congratulations!
This wasn’t anything like what I anticipated. I saw marching bands and banners and screaming crowds. But, DEAR LORD, this is so much better than that! WOOT!
From sea to shining sea!
Don I don’t know this but there must be a search engine in youtube for you to come up with these songs
It is my youtube brain-I hear certain words and it reminds me of certain songs. I know it sounds crazy-but you guys already knew that!
Matt is the man!!!
Everyone this is Matt’s song for the plunge-
This is a great song by a great singer – hope you enjoy – http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-6426242044766176794#
Are you trying to make us cry?? I love this song! Always have.
Julie
I just think that it is so appropriate as “Matt did it his way” not for a cause not for someone else but for the love of walking, seeing our country, and meeting the beautiful loving people of this great United States. I believe that this blog has united many people from all over from various cultures, religions, professions, education and life experiences in a way that only a person like Matt could do – Praise Matt for doing this in a time when we have a lot of division in this country.
Matt is a hero to me and the type of person we need as a President of this country!
We may never meet again – but I did it my way – then again we may meet again.
Don
Don, I couldn’t agree with you more. That is so true. I’ve said a couple of times over the past few months that in this day & age when there’s so much crime, hate and violence, it’s so good to see that there are truly good people still in this world who will open their families and homes to a perfect stranger. This really strengthens faith.
Lest I continue to comment on everyone else’s comment…I must say “right on.”
Amen to Don. Couldn’t have said it better myself.
Good one Don like Julie I’ve always loved this song….
Fabulous Don. Fits Matt to a tee. He really did do it his way.
Congratulations!!!!!!! Matt thanks for all the wonderful pictures of our great country. Also Emma still asks about you and she says that she misses talking with you. It was such an honor having you stay at our house. We wish you all the best
Aw that so sweet. Emma was the perfect little hostess to Matt. She’s so sweet. And her art was really good too! Thanks for helping Matt out and sharing with him too.
Funny thing, I thought by now we’d see a picture of him swimming in that ocean
They’re having cake and a party reception for him first. I’m sure we’ll see those pictures after their party and all.
I expected much more too. Someone mentioned earlier that the chamber of commerce has somethig set for tonight
CONGRATULATIONS! What a fabulous journey.
I have been watching your progress since central Minnesota. I have told many folks about your journey. I know you are excited to see the sea. It is great to know that you have made it. It surely is a wonderful thing you have done. —- Kyle
Amazing, utterly amazing ;)
Mazol Tov!!! At last you made it!
Congratulations! An awesome journey!
Great job! Great, great, Great!!!!!
And the weather cooperated too! Congratulations.
Seriously, I blew off my afternoon once I realized this was it, just so I could watch. :! Its been a wonderful adventure to watch, att. Congratulations. I’m actually a little choked up….
Matt,
Congratulations!!! You have finished the journey you have started. Your journey across America just reaffirmed that there are so many great people out there. I am beginning my journey to becoming an RN and you showed me the reason why I want to be a nurse. To help those “great” people. Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us all.
Peace & Love,
Dawn M in IL
Dawn
That is so wonderful of you to say about Matt and I hope you become the best nurse ever!
Overjoyed- Great job MATT!!! I can only imagine what an emotional brain dump you are going to have in the upcoming days/weeks. You have accomplished such an enormous task. I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again. SO PROUD OF YOU!!
Congratulations! I’m drinking a toast to your success!
Thanks for sharing!
Cheers
You know, if we had thought about it, we could have sent someone out there (maybe Mayor Don?) with a laptop, connect to Wifi and stream Matt’s plunge live. How great that would have been! Then live streaming of the welcoming committee and party.
There may still be time, Julie… If you get on a plane RIGHT NOW… LOL ;)
And with the “wonderful” and on-schedule airport we have here in Cincinnati (and I use that term loosely), I’d probably pass Matt in the air – me heading to Rockaway, OR and him heading to Rockaway, NY. Now that would be a picture to post – mid-air!!
Julie
That would have made my day. Why did we not put that in the budget this year. I could have STIMULATED the Oregon economy and sent you a WI-FI stream of Matt. Excuse me I am out of Yuengling. Would you please go get me another 12 pack.
My salute to Matt with a Yunegling!
Matt, I have an idea. Since you are at the Pacific, you should ask for a Pacifico beer-they are great-Mexican beer-better than the favorite Mexican most people drink.
I’ll add that to the agenda for our next meeting – laptop-check, wifi-check, airfare-check, destination–up for discussion at the meeting. Hey – how about we plan a Labor Day picnic for the Hobo Nation! Who’s gonna head that committee?
rats! i’m on call labor day!!!
I want to see the plunge…. hope it’s posted somewhere…
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!
Hope you’re enjoying the ocean right now :) Thanks so much for sharing your journey!
This is so bittersweet! Thank you for taking me along on such a wonderful journey. I have enjoyed every step, every place and every face. Oh- and those awesome mailboxes! You’ve shown that there’s so much meaning in the seemingly mundane, from now on I will walk more slowly and remember to be more present in every moment. Thank you for being YOU.
ok. So now i want cake.
You made it!!! I’m so happy for you Matt, and thankful for all of us who’ve gotten to see parts of the country we may never have seen otherwise! Best of luck on whatever journey you choose next — you’ve been such a cheerful voice in our lives these past few months, I hope you keep us updated on what’s next!
Oh how I WISH I could have been there to see you at Rockaway Beach!
Congratulations!!!! It’s been a wonderful journey with you…thank you so much for sharing the beautiful photos, so many places I’d never seen before! You are an amazing person!
Thank you also Matt, for not only showing us the diversity of the continent, but the diversity of it’s people. And even with all of our differences……..we are really very similar on the inside. Where it really counts.
Congrats! I have to say I have been amazed at the amount of ground you cover. It has been wonderful to watch your progress and get to know you just a little bit. And of course I want to know what everyone else does: What’s next for The Walkin’ Man?
All the best.
Congrats, Matt! And thanks for carrying us along with you.
Congratulatiosn, and thank you for letting us join on the journey.
And best of luck on the road back to a ‘normal life’, it always takes some adjustment. I would have some thousand questions for you. I hope you’ll write some wrap up text for us.
So congrats and thanks again.
Matt, you must be experiencing such a wonderful high right now! I’m so happy for you! Thanks so much for sharing this amazing journey of yours!
Congratulations!!!
You did something even cooler than riding a bike coast to coast!
Thanks for documenting your trip — especially the bridges and mailboxes!
But it was never about the destination, it was about the journey.
I hope for your next trip you come a little farther South. We’d love to see you!
Wow wow wow!!! You made it and SO MUCH SOONER than your calculated trip plan! Just under 6 months… and here it seems like just yesterday that you were writing about how a “vacation” can’t be more than 6 months according to your email and yet you didn’t expect to finish before the year’s end. :D
CONGRATULATIONS! Thank you for sharing!
You’re so kick-ass. :-) That’s all.
I’m so glad his first photo of the ocean has no people in it. A fitting end for a solitary walk. Just Matt and the landscape. When I originally clicked on “Ocian in view” I literally gasped when I saw the expanse of the Pacific beyond the breakwall. Beautiful!
I am so happy for you!!!!!!! Im sad that I wont have check out imjustwalkin.com as top 5 things to do daily. I will miss smiling and laughing at the things you took picutes of. Man, it sucks thinking about no more imjustwalkin.com…..thanks again for the good times…..
This is truly a wonderful accomplishment! Congratulations! I wish we could all have the courage and the drive to make our dreams come true. You are an inspiration for a lot of people.
Whoo-hoo! Congratulations, Matt! What an accomplishment! I’m so proud of you! {{{hugs}}} to and your family!
Oh good, you made it back before he posted his celebratory photos! Hope your fundraiser dinner was good!
Barb V
Where have you been young lady? Get in the mix (dance, celebrate, cry and shout) – Matt Green for President!!!
I’m here, Don. I’m celebrating with my 12-wk. old grandson Drake, who came home with us after the fund-raiser dinner we went to. I can only pop in to the party as much as he allows me to. Right now, he’s sleeping, so I’m popping in! And congratulations to you, Don, on winning the pool. I missed it by days – I estimated he would arrive o 8/30. Did you see my post a few pictures back about Matt going home?
Hi Barb V! Congrats on your new grandson! Enjoy him!
Thanks, Julie! He’s our first, and the joy of our lives!
There you are again- glad you have your grandson with you! I did not see the post about Matt going home but I will get to it tomorrow night or Friday.
Thanks for the congrats. – You were close. August 25th-4 months till Christmas-do you think Matt planned this?
Take care of that grandson and I will chatter more latter.
mr. matt-
thanks so much for sharing the photos and experiences of your adventure!
checking up on your walking progress while i’m working a cubicle job has made my time in the cube 100% more interesting! :)
when i first heard about your walking you were in minnesota and i couldn’t help but think of these lyrics with all the people you’ve crossed paths with, even though it’s some what cheesy even to me. only it simply seems fitting, as you’ve made actual, physical connections with the ground you’ve walked, places you’ve been, and people you’ve inspired. good luck in all you do.
As I was walking a ribbon of highway
I saw above me an endless skyway
I saw below me a golden valley
…
I’ve roamed and rambled and I’ve followed my footsteps
To the sparkling sands of her diamond deserts
And all around me a voice was sounding
…
The sun comes shining as I was strolling
The wheat fields waving and the dust clouds rolling
The fog was lifting a voice come chanting
This land was made for you and me
….
As I was walkin’ – I saw a sign there
And that sign said – no tress passin’
But on the other side …. it didn’t say nothin!
Now that side was made for you and me!
Leslie in WI
I have a niece named Leslie- I like your lyrics and they are very appropriate!
Congratulations Matt!!! Well done, and a beautiful way to show all of us the beauty of not only the land, but of the people too. You have touched every one of us. May you continue your journey of reaching out and showing strangers the good in our country, people and terrain. Bravo!
Yay! I’m glad you made it!
Ok it’s been more than 2 hours since the last pic and update. I really want to see the plunge and the party. I imagine it’s just incredible. Matt, we need you!!! I feel withdrawals coming on. Maybe we need MA (Mattaholics Annonymous). I’ll start – Hi my name is Julie…..
lol, I think we’re all feeling the same way.
Hi, my name is Barb.
Hi Barb!
There you are Barb V. Been misses you from the conversation. Hope al is well.
Hi-my name is Don and I and I would like to meet some people but I am real shy. Please nodge me and let me know if you care!
I used to be Mayor of some Planet but that must have been in another life. I thinkl I have been walking in circles for several years. Please help!
nudge as in fudge nitwit
Consider yourself nudged! And cared for! Have you been circling those mountains down there again? Ok come down from the mountain and take a deep breath. Now snap out of it cause your Planet needs you!
i used to enjoy those baked goods. “Waiter, bring me a glass of cold milk and some of those fudge nitwits, please!”
crop circles?
This is why I come to the comment section too funny…ok I’ll play…Hi my name is ruthie…
Hi Ruthie!
Hi Ruthie in CA
Glad you joined us. I think I am still going in circles-remember this
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAmcCdvZCDg
Jeff, katzien, me and maybe some others had a meeting the other day too. But I can do it again, we all need to…..Hi, my name is Dorinda…..
Hi Julie, I’m Mary…12 steps need to come up with some.
The first step is to recognize the adventure has ended. Check. The second step is to stop coming to the site each and every day. Check. The third step is to not continue to comment, even if you come for an occasional visit. Doh! Fail. <3
proof positive that what goes around, comes around….a sweet world view makes it easy for sweet responses from others to be summoned. Well done. Now get home!
oooooohhhhhh noooooo!!!
WELL, all good things must come to an end. sad but true. thanks for sharing with us Matt!
thank you for taking us for a walk!
Wow! You have done it! And what will your next adventure be? My best to you.
Matt, I’ve truly enjoyed visiting you every single day of your journey. I’m happy that you made it all the way… and again, sad that I don’t have your wonderful journey to look forward to every day.
So… what’s next on your plate?
Maybe Matt is celebrating so much he forgot about the Hobo Planet-no, not Matt-let him celebrate-he has not seen his family in months (OK he saw his Mon in MN) I believe but he will get back to us. He knows we all love and admire him for who he his and what he has done!
OK -Matt, enough is enough-where are you!
This song should sum up our feelings
Sing it Roy Baby – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZ4xALSUysc
@D.i.T: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgfnCTp3p7U
Charlie
Now that is an oldie and a goodie-I think it will be 96,000,000 tears and not 96 tears-thanks for sharing with uS!
And at least that many boxes of tissue!
Sometimes all you need is a song to sum up your feelings!
Songs speak to me so much – whatever the occasion, there’s a song waiting to be heard. I’m loving all the YT posts!
Ruithie and Barb V
Songs always sum things up for me-everytime a hear certain songs I am reminded of things in life!
So……..Matt………Ya gonna walk back? Now what am I going to do?
Congrats Matt! others have recently started a similar journey, but I doubt others will get this much attention.
Your trying to make me than kyou are Jeff from Joisy aren’t you?
Absolutely amazing, and I will miss checking in daily. Anyone else for starting a fund to keep Matt on the road? There are other coasts and directions to cover….hint!hint!hint!
Holy cow! What an amazing thing. So freakin’ cool.
In the end, it’s not about the destination. I think that somewhere in our heads, you’ll always be walking towards that next horizon.
Now sit back, put your feet up, and dream up what comes next.
(And share it!)
Big fat congrats, Matt!
PS: Look! Someone’s already making the film version. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzRKEv6cHuk
This is actually a tearful moment for me! Congratulations Matt, what an incredible journey! What an amazing thing to be able to say you have done.
Amazing what you did! Now you’ve created a void in my routine. I used to check photos first thing in the morning. What should I do now?
So, will you be sharing your next accomplishment from your “bucket list”? I’ll miss your posts – and I’ll be watching for your book!
Matt really must write a book on the stories behind it, the people he met, the comments and etc.
I’ll buy it for sure!
Gustavo from Brazil – welcome to HoboPlanet! It’s amazing how international the Matt followers are!
Gustavo’s been around a while now he just doesn’t post much. He’s been one of our “silent partners”. he he.
I like this song and it reminds me of Matt’s dream-not just anyone could plan and prepare to avoid the odds of not finishing-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Sd0W1RyMnE
That’s perfect Don. You amaze me with finding the perfect songs with the perfect meanings for Matt and our Hobo Nation.
Another amazing pick from the best Mayor of Hobo Nation!
Did you see the black square with the caption that said Its complete? Now its gone. hmm
i just saw that when i signed on, then the page auto refreshed itself and POOF gone!
Yeah Saun, me too. We’ve been creating some havoc here today.
Yep, there was a film clip there for a couple seconds, of a guy walking across the street in a major city, banging of the hood of a honking taxicab, yelling “Hey! I’m walkin’ here!”
That’s the place holder holder while he’s loading a picture. heehee
I saw that and even posted a comment!
I’m so jealous – I think I’m the only one who hasn’t encountered that place marker.
I _think_ that’s a scene from “Midnight Cowboy.”
What a day! Congratulations!
Thank you for letting me tag along all the way, looking at the photos. Well done!
Hiya, Matt!
Congratulations! You have accomplished far more than you know. While “just walkin'” brought you across America, “just talkin'” about it- on this site and elsewhere- has brought some of us new friends. My daughter, Laura, and I thank you for letting us make the journey with you by way of this site. We hope you don’t mind, but Laura and I want to keep a souvenir from our journey. We are using the picture of the Impatiens Flowers from yesterday, August 24th, as our computer wallpaper. Our heartfelt thanks! It is a beautiful reminder of a wonderful time. Matt, please stay in touch. Best wishes to you and your lovely Mom, Dad and family.
Thank You Matt, It’s been WAY fun!!!!!!!!!!!!
Congrats Matt…I hope your journey was awesome and if you ever want to write a book about your journey let me know as I work with publishers. I think your story would bring joy to many. Please let me know if you would like to pursue a project
Great job.
Paul D.
EWveryone
You see that Matt has the caption of “Ocian in View” on this photo. You thank he misspelled ocean-WE ARE WRONG AGAIN!
See this – he did a history lesson as part of the plan – more reason for him to be President of the United States!
http://www.nationalgeographic.com/lewisandclark/journey_leg_13.html
Thank you Don! Candice posted the same link up there ;-) Pacific Ocian! I miss my home country.
Gigi
So many posts and I have bben gone a lot today so I did not search very well. I apologize for ther duplication.
Matt made it!!!
No need to apologize Don. Love all your links esp the songs. Cheers!
One last brilliant move by Matt. I bet he’s had that one up his sleeve for a long time!
Wow Don, you did it again. You let us know that Matt didn’t slip up after all. Thanks for the posting
Congratulations on an awesome accomplishment!!!! It’s been fun following your journey!
Wow! Mission accomplished! Congratulations!
Thanks so much your posting.
Excellent accomplishment! It’s been fun following you along the journey. Hopefully our paths will cross one day…even if we may never meet again. Congratulations!
In case you missed this, I posted it several pics back:
Like so many of you, I’ve been glued to imjustwalkin today not wanting to miss Matt’s final steps as he enters Rockaway Beach, OR. (Work is getting done in between pictures – priorities!) This has been a wonderful journey for me as well; I find myself wanting to walk more, to get out and enjoy God’s beautiful creation of all kinds: people, landscape, creatures of the land and air. And for this I’m grateful that Matt has invited us to “walk” along with him across America.
I find myself thinking about Matt and that he’ll be going home very soon. How he must miss home – wherever that may be. Is it NYC? Is it Vermont? Will it be Oregon? Only Matt & God knows where that will be. The song “This is Home” by Switchfoot kept running through my mind as I’ve been pondering this. So I went back and read Matt’s long version as to why he did this. Certain words and phrases stand out to me:
“anxious”
“I’m not sure what I’m doing with my life”
“adventure”
“savor the country”
“Walking is the way we experience our homes.”
“It’s a way to live a continuous line across the country as if it were my home.”
For the past five months, home has been wherever Matt parked his Runabout, affectionately known as the Mattmobile, each evening. His home has been in the middle of nowhere, it’s been on someone’s front lawn, it’s been in someone’s home or RV, but most of all it’s been across this great country we call America.
Matt, you have been an absolute blessing to those who have personally met you and to those who only know you through your blog. We have all become blessings to each other. Your sign “We may never meet again” might be true, but as you travel home, you take with you our thoughts & prayers, and on behalf of the HoboPlanet, we wish you peace & love, wherever that may be. This song is for you. Thank you.
(Get out your tissue, everyone!) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0ykm1v9xbU&feature=related
Barb V
Thank you for this beautiful song. Glad Matt made it so we could meet and become friends!
Don
Me, too, Don! I look forward to keeping in touch on Facebook.
Thanks Barb V. Very moving song. It made me think how all this has changed all of us in some form or fashion. No telling how it has changed his life forever.
Oh my…why did you do that to us Barb?? Dang it….’scuse me.
Let us all know when your book comes out! Congrats! =)
what great joy in that picture… is it really the end
MATT – CONGRATULATIONS – 152 HIP HIP HOORAYS for your accomplishments – We are so very proud of you and so very thankful that your folks got to join you for this final leg!
Keith and Sally Morris Family – AND – extended family for computer support! And I agree with Jess – we would LOVE to read the book version of this journey!
It’s been quite the journey!
Quite right!
Congratulations! Please walk down the coast and back East along the Southern route, if you don’t I won’t know what to do with myself.
What an amazing sight! Glad you made it safe and sound, and that you had great company for that last mile. I too share everyone’s sadness that I will not be able to check on this adventure daily anymore.
I am holding out for that “It Is Complete.” picture post that he has been trying to upload. I know it will be coming. Maybe the site is too overloaded. What a great journey! I had my first celebratory beer at 4pm and I am feeling quite great now. My meatballs are done and quite delicious, smoke free for a month today, and Matt completes his journey! I say this is a GREAT day! Slainche to Matt and the Hobo Nation!
Ditto Christine on the last pic, I say there will be a few more.
Ditto for me to. There better be some more pics! This isn’t the end, it was near the end. I want the last hoorah picture of him going into the ocean just like he started it back in NJ/NY. Please Matt, finish this right and help to complete us.
Congratulations. have enjoyed your pictures. Now turn around and walk back. Just kidding.
After looking closely at the red line I’m wondering….is he swimming to Hawaii?
Congratulations Matt! Very long journey. I bet your feet are tired. Cool um in the ocian.
I caught the easter egg! First one ever! http://imjustwalkin.com/2010/08/25/it-is-complete-8/
Thats coming up page not found :(
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bsR1k453SA
Great song Lori. I had forgotten all about that song. I always liked it.
like they say on the radio call in shows, “long time watcher/reader, first time commenter”. Congrats Matt!!! I don’t know if you are considering it, i have’t been looking at the comments, but if you are going to write a book , I can’t wait for it.
What’s next? I guess you’ll still have to walk everyday? Your body will expect it. Best of luck in all you do.
Enjoy Matt Going Home (Kenny G) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGIw60UKiKw
Journey Home by Rabindranath Tagore
The time that my journey takes is long and the way of it long.
I came out on the chariot of the first gleam of light, and pursued my
voyage through the wildernesses of worlds leaving my track on many a star and planet.
It is the most distant course that comes nearest to thyself,
and that training is the most intricate which leads to the utter simplicity of a tune.
The traveler has to knock at every alien door to come to his own,
and one has to wander through all the outer worlds to reach the innermost shrine at the end.
My eyes strayed far and wide before I shut them and said `Here art thou!’
The question and the cry `Oh, where?’ melt into tears of a thousand
streams and deluge the world with the flood of the assurance `I am!’
Saun
I love instrmental music-thank you. OH-and I am glad Matt made it so we could meet each other-stay in touch. Will be driving church bus tomorrow and gone all day!
Matt for President
So is that why Matt had to hurry up and finish today Don? Because you have a bus trip tomorrow and aren’t available? See you have connections with the guy! he he. Just kidding. But it sure is suspicious. Matt’s done and all a sudden Don has plans the next day for the whole day? hmmmm….love ya Don, be safe.
Just wanted to say congratulations!! It was great watching you walk those last few miles and take that dip in our cold pacific ocean.
Julie-were you there?!? Did you actually get to see it personally in person?? If so, wow how neat.
Yes, Julie! Give us the details!!
Congratulations, Matt. We’ve all been watching. Have a safe trip home.
Hi from the UK. Fantastic what a project what an achievement, but now my life is empty, well at least those few minutes in the day when I dipped into your trip, I loved your photography and your humour. what ever your doing with the rest of your life i wish you a great journey. me I’m going back to the beginning look at the posts that happened before i joined you and take it all in again.
C
I’ve been watching Matt walk from the beginning of summer and can’t believe his trip is over! It’s been great. :)
Congratulations! I’ve so enjoying following your trip from the sidelines. So glad you’ve made it!!
Once again! Great Job on your Journey Matt..and again 5 months 3 days is extremely impressive!!! So now what to do……hmmmmmm
i for one picture him with a few friends having a beach cook out, a few beers, rolling over laughing and trying to upload a few final pictures…..8 D
Wow! Congratulations Matt! You should be so proud of yourself.
Thank you so much for taking us along on your journey. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed following you across our great country.
What an incredible story you have to tell.
All the best to you! :)
Congratulations! What an accomplishment! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. So glad you made the journey safe and sound and I’m assuming you had a good time. I’m also assuming you’re getting a ride home… :)
Thanks again! I’ve greatly enjoyed travelling with you.
– Becah in GA
Thank you for sharing your adventure with us! This has taught me, more than anything, how much it is all about the journey, not the destination, although it is such a great thing for you to reach your destination, the journey has been sweet to see.
I hope you continue to keep a blog with pictures and I wish you much luck in your future endeavors.
Sue Rockwell
I only have one question… How are you getting back to New York ? :)
congrats
Congratulations! The pics have been so much fun to see. Now what will I do with my days? : (
I believe Matt and at some family will stay a few days to savor the feat and enjoy one another. Those back home probably will not see Matt until -http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRGLjzFHa40
Check these cars out!
Lets try this-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlUigSXxgG8
Thank you Matt for a fantastic journey across our beautiful country. I’ll never forget this experience, or you.
Steph
Photos from Yahoo http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/Top-Stories-Photos-Matt-Green-smiles-after-jumping-into–Pacific-Ocean-following/ss/705/im:/100826/480/urn_publicid_ap_org_c26fe0b42da64b49811be816e4ec66ac/
So awesome. Matt looks so happy! Thank you for sharing this Nancy!
By the time I got there it’s photos 24-29!
See Photos 4 – 9. Great picture of the plunge into the cold Pacific! Congratulations Matt!!
Thanks Nancy for the link great pictures
nope, now it’s 56-61
Hi, I have been following your journy from the start (my daughter knows someone who knows you) and I just wanted to say that your blog and pictures have been a joy to follow. Thanks for letting me live vicariously through your adventure. Best of luck and have a great life!
OK, I had to stop last night before he took this shot….but hit the site first thing this morning! Of course, I saw the end before this one. So I know he will take the plunge and you will see it. BUT, if I had been awake, I would have said this: I feel high, I feel low. I feel like I have had a great adventure, and now it is over. Actually, I feel a bit ……. deflated. I think I will watch the video again and get lifted! It is such a big accomplishment that it just sort of blows my mind. Not sure I can really take it all in. I am so proud of him…..
To all the HoboPlaneteers, this one is for you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOCJAVlESEo
I’ll miss the comaraderie (sp?) we shared.
great trip, thanks so much for sharing!!!
Thanks for sharing your journey with us. It was a great trip.
Take care.
You can tell how excited Matt must have been today. His first spelling mistake in 152 days! “Ocian in view”. But as a long-time proofreader you are totally forgiven for this tiny lapse in perfection. Matt, it proves that you are only human, even after your super-human accomplishment.
Thanks for all the crazy, funny signage you shot along the way… grammatically correct or not. It really brought a lot of personality and LOLs to the trip for all of us.
Please disregard my previous spelling mistake comment. And apologies to Matt. I just read the link to the famous Lewis and Clarke quote posted earlier. I guess Matt really is perfect after all. Word up! (grins)
Congratulations. So much, One step at a time. I can. I will.
CongratulationsMatt!!! A good life lesson for everyone here, set a goal, then one step at a time with an eye on that goal, persevere. Oh, and smile as you go! Great journey, thanks for sharing it.
Good job, Matt. I had no doubts. Now, take a day off before you start back.
Congratulations! You’ve really inspired a lot of people…. Best of luck with your next adventures!! Remember… “and miles to go before I sleep… and miles to go before I sleep”.
Best wishes and much success!! :-)
Congradulations Matt ,
Thanks for sharing your journey with us. I will miss the daily updates of your trip.
Congrats on this great accomplishment! It was a lot of fun following your adventures daily. After this you can do anything :)
You are amazing! Catch you on the flip side!
So awesome to see this post. I´ve got a long way to go on my own trip, and this is inspiring. Hope you´re coming back to NY and leading more walks! For now rest your feet!
CONGRATS!!!!! Thanks for sharing your great photos and your story. I am totally inspired and have added “walk across the country” to my bucket list. :) Woo hoo!!!! What’s next??
Thanks for some awesome memories! Anxious to see what the future holds for you and hope that it might involve a book deal.
Best of luck to you in the future with what ever you decide. Thank you for taking me on a journey I other wise would have never had.
Hey Matt, Welcome to the club! From one cross-country walker to another, Congratulations!