Hello! Welcome back, thought it was time for an update!!

Mental Preparation

I’m sure I’m not the only one who also struggles with this subject. Sometimes do you just think you aren’t mentally equipped to walk 2200 miles? As an overthinker, I have thought that. What if I fail? What if I have to resign from a good job and don’t even finish!!?? What if I only make it out there for a week and end up not liking it? All the freaking what ifs??? I’m learning to flip that around and say to myself well, what if it that bad thing doesnt happen? What if everything turns out just fine?

I have been trying to do a lot of personal growth during this anxious time. I’m so ready to step on the AT and just grow as a person! Apparently this trail will make you do that! So how am I doing that?

First off, I started reading Zach Davis, the one and only, his book Appalachian Trials. And I’m doing everything that he suggest in that book.

I’m really focusing on my whys. Why am I doing this? I repeat them to myself everyday! I also feel like the time is just going by fast and slow at the same time.. If that makes sence. Im anxious.

2 month pre trail preparations

So I’m leaving in April! There’s just little things I need to do now. One is getting a music subscription, also getting a Venmo account, etc. I’ve tried like 4 different pairs of shoes. It’s nothing too big and I could leave now with out those things. Which is another thing, I keep thinking I have all my stuff, Ill just start NOBO in two weeks lol!!! “I’m still working and those last few paychecks will be nice!” That’s what I’m saying to myself to stick with the original plan! Lol!!!

My job does know now! That was a big moment it felt like. You know yup things are getting real!! I’m working up until April 7th and leaving for Harpers Ferry 6 days later! I still am like shocked, like I’m about to go walk the Appalachian Trail! And I’ve been telling everybody! Honestly I get emotional thinking about it, crying almost.  My emotions have been more intense here lately, but in such a good way. I just haven’t been able to explain it. Anyone else?

Also, Ive been trying to be more social! I led a group hike this past weekend in the smokies. 4 out of the 9 girls showed up! That’s a win in my book! And it was really easy to talk to them, another thing I over thought and turned out just fine! I was so nervous, Im very socially awkward, and this was a good step for me! Just getting out of my comfort zone. And it was a blast, I will do it again!

Well thank you for reading!! I’m going to try and start posting once a week from here on out!