Posts
My Hiker Gratitude List
Ive grown a lot as an aspiring thru-hiker in the past six months and I have a long way to go (2190 miles and counting) before I reach my goal. This is one adventure that wouldnt be possible for me without help, support and encouragement from others many of whom Ill never meet. Knowing that I cant do it all by myself, I made a list of all the things Im thankful for as I prepare for my trip. This is my Thru-Hiker Gratitude List.
My Endless Quest for the Ideal Gear List
When I started planning my Appalachian Trail thru hike, I didn't expect to spend hours upon hours researching stoves, sleeping pads, tents and other equipment, meticulously comparing features, prices and warranties. Cant you just go to Amazon (or REI) and order everything you need? Nope! Finding the right gear is a lot more complicated than that.
The Hardest Question for this Aspiring Thru-Hiker to Answer: Why?
Why do I want thru-hike the Appalachian Trail? Surprisingly it's not the first question people ask me. But I want to know (need to know) my "Why?" Some days it's a hard question to answer, even for myself.
Can I do this? Yes, I’m doing it!
I was in full-blown confidence meltdown mode. My husband and daughter smiled sympathetically as they said goodbye, telling me how proud they were that I was even trying this backpacking thing. I carefully thrust my pack into the trunk, warning them that I might chicken out and return home again before lunch. Then I jumped in my car and headed toward Amicalola Falls.