As Journey Begins, I’m Alone but Excited
Waking up at 4:30 a.m. to fly to Georgia was exhausting. Not only was it early in the morning, but it was cold, dark, and stressful. I cruised through security with just a paper bag as my carry-on and waited at my gate, surrounded by men and women in business clothes. There was such a stark contrast between their destinations and mine. Although I was nervous because what I am about to do is so far from typical, everyday life, I was excited to be different and know that Im about to embark on the journey of a lifetime.
As I sat on my flight, I watched the plane icon on the screen in front of me tick closer and closer to Georgia — and farther and farther from home. Its amazing how the plane took two hours to travel the distance its going to take me months to hike. Its also impressive that the plane covered all that distance, yet as passengers you have no idea what youre passing. I was excited to know Ill be experiencing the best of all that distance covered during the flight.
It Hits; I’m Doing This Alone
I arrived in Georgia, collected my bag, and caught the MARTA out to North Spring Station. Waiting to be picked up by my shuttle, the nerves were there, but the excitement felt even stronger. Its here that it really hit me — alone. I am doing this alone. I am hiking this trail alone. Ive left my friends and family behind and this journey is about to be my own. Although I know there will be other people hiking — tons in fact — I still cant help but be nervous about beginning solo. Its scary to have no one familiar around you as you prepare to begin this type of journey. Im scared. Im nervous. My mind is racing. Have I remembered everything? Am I ready? Im feeling a million things and I just want to get this thing started and get in a groove. Tomorrows the day!
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Comments 3
You will easily meet other hikers and, before you know it, they will become familiar. You may be hiking solo but youll rarely be alone. Chances are high that folks will come and go but, rest assured, if you want hiking buddies, they will come into your life. The special ones will stay there. Good luck. Hiking the AT is a constant adventure!!!
Allie
I am excited for you. I like your writing style so please keep posting. Preparation and determination you already have so good luck.
Allie – sounds like a wonderful time! Hope you’re achieving what you set out to … Jackie