Memories Bring Back Memories

With less than two weeks until I start my second section hike on the Appalachian Trail, the memories of last year’s adventures are still so vivid to me. The journey to unlearn what I’ve learned started long before I touched that first white blaze. I can still recall the many hours of training, research, planning, organizing, packing, repacking, and questioning myself. Will I be alright? Am I doing the right thing? Am I ready? As my step-off day grew closer, there were many sleepless nights. I was scared, I was excited. A million thoughts all fought for their turn to dance in my head long before that 10-hour drive to Harpers Ferry.

As the days now grow closer to the start of my second section hike, NOBO from the southern terminus at Springer Mountain, a sense of calmness now fills my everything. Sure, some minor planning needs to take place. But for the most part, I’ve learned to trust in The Universe and have faith that the trail will provide. No more sleepless nights, no more worrying about gear, miles, food, etc., I’ve learned to shed the doubts and fears of walking once again into the unknown. I’ve learned to trust myself and to enjoy everything that the trail will throw at me. I’m ready for another little part of me to die inside, and I’m ready for another part of me to be reborn once again. 

This will be my last blog post until I return from this two-week section hike. I’m super excited to be starting from the official Southern Terminus at Springer Mountain, Georgia on May 2. My plan is to see and feel everything to experience my hike to its fullest as I make my way north, destination Franklin, NC.  Just like last year’s adventure, I’ll be posting daily, as cell signal permits, on my Trail Journals page.  While you wait, If you feel inclined to do so, you can read about my past years’ adventure on the My Other Journals tab 2020AT on that same site. Thanks to all of those who wrote to me and for all of your support. This is going to be an amazing adventure, Be_again.