In another era, Joe Norman might have been called a vagabond. He even has a nickname worthy of a wayfarer, Cotton Joe Norman.
The 38-year-old former Chattanooga resident has spent much of his adult life pursuing an untethered existence. He spent four years living and hiking in Europe. He has spent time riding camels in Morocco and hiked the entirety of the International Appalachian Trail, which stretches hundreds of miles into Canada.
“I’ve always enjoyed being outside and being in nature,” he explained, modestly.
Mark KennedyAt other points in his life, Norman has worked as an instructor for a North Georgia wilderness therapy company. He is currently employed as a mentor and life coach to troubled teens whom he counsels over Skype.
Earlier this year, Norman, who now lives in Calhoun, Georgia, got the invitation of a lifetime.