from Georgia to Maine

2,181 miles.

The Appalachian Trail

Those who hike it straight through from it's beginning on Springer Mountain in Georgia all the way to Mt. Katahdin in Maine are 'through hikers'.  

Some take it in shorter increments.  These are "Section Hikers".

I am personally only twenty miles shy of doing the small amount in Georgia - about 80 miles.  Nothing compared to the challenge that those who put aside their lives to conquer the beauty and beast of the entire length.

But this weekend Jenelle and I took to the trails for an overnight trip from Amicalola Falls to the Start - the southern terminus to this great adventure of a hike.  We were just there to get our legs moving and spend a night in Nature's Call.  Along the way we ran into several that were starting the trek to Maine.  And it made me think.

Doesn't it take a special mentality to even fathom such an undertaking - let alone complete it?

• To do the full length one way can take anywhere from 5 - 7 months.  
• To weather the vast array of conditions.  
• To carry your house, your food, your clothing in a pack strapped to your back.  
• To leave the technology and civilization we are so accustomed to and disconnect from the world.
  
  

I don't know if I have the stamina or strength of will to do it.  And right now I'm just wanting to get the rest of Georgia completed.  But I do know something of the mindset that says "Nothing is going to stop me.  I'm not going to let anything stop me moving forward on this journey."

Every day.

Today I had to face some bad news.  I am bummed.  I am also frustrated.  But I can't sit and wallow.  I know that there will be other opportunities.  Other 'trails' and trials to face and forge ahead on.

So even if my feet never make it all the way to Maine - to Katahdin, I know that I'll push forward in the life that I've chosen.  The life with a new love, more time with my precious kiddos, and continuing to Traverse the Day!