All Geared Up and Ready to Go!

Five day countdown! Three work days, one free day to finish packing, and one day to drive; I can’t believe after all this preparation the time is here! I’m excited and nervous. I have been dreaming of connecting so many of my favorite places in the woods and mountains of the Appalachian Trail since my childhood. Now God has opened the door to this opportunity after more than 50 years of imagining doing this.

A few days before I step into the woods to live and walk for months I’m humbled by the daunting task of walking 2200 miles over steep mountains, through muddy valleys, and crossing swollen rivers. Can my not-young body handle this? Am I mentally tough enough to persevere through? Filled with gratitude for the support and encouragement from my husband, the cheerleading from my adult kids and their spouses, and the excitement and eager anticipation of my stories from my 8 grandkids, I will be propelled on by their interest in my adventures and carried through the difficult times by their love and prayers.

I feel compelled to walk this trail by a calling that is beyond me, and He says, ” Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters , I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through the fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God…Fear not, for I am with you.” I think I am about to learn how true this really is.