Status Updates From AWOL on the Appalachian Trail

Effrontery = shameless, insolent, or barefaced boldness.

Doldrum = spell of listlessness or depression, a period of sluggish inactivity or stagnation, or a specific nautical region near the equator known for its calms, squalls, and lack of wind.

Hemlock = evergreen coniferous tree.

Truism = a statement so obviously and self-evidently true that it hardly needs saying.

Spiffy = neat, stylish, or attractive in appearance.

Ogling = the act of staring at someone in a bold, flirtatious, or lustful manner, often with obvious sexual interest.

Puerile = childish, silly, or immature.

Gofer = an employee whose duties include running errands.

Simian = of or relating to monkeys and apes.

Kudzu = a fast-growing, trailing perennial vine native to East Asia.

Crenelated (or crenellated) describes a wall, typically on a castle or fortress, that has a notched or indented top.

Jaunt = a short, pleasant journey or outing. It typically refers to a brief trip taken for enjoyment, relaxation, or leisure rather than for business or necessity.

Gumption = the courageous, energetic, and practical ability to know what to do in a tricky situation and take action to do it.

Peccadillo = relatively minor fault, petty offense, or slight sin.

Clerestory windows are vertical windows placed high on a wall, usually above eye level.