It’s a new day on the Appalachian Trail: What I’m leaving behind, taking with me and bringing home.

Minutes turn to hours, hours to days, days to years. The world turns, and life passes by. There’s not much to speak of about the lost time.

I go through the motions too often in life, squandering precious moments due to complacency and laziness.

I’ve decided to go through a different motion — one foot in front of the other 2,200 miles, four to six months, to Maine.

I’ll leave behind a few friends, family members, some failed college aspirations, and the good girl and job I never had yet. Most importantly, I’ll leave behind a debilitating pessimism that’s been developing in my psyche for too long.

The only things I’ll bring with me are some raggedy sandals and a duffle bag with my life’s belongings in it. Just kidding.

I’ve spent enough money to burn a wet cat because things weigh a few ounces lighter than others. (Who am I kidding my big league 3, Lightheart, Agnes, HMG, is BA.) Also I’ll bring, an open mind, sense of wonder, awe and determination. And my life motto on the trail; No fear, no judgement, no doubt.

Some of the things I hope to gain are incredible leg muscles, pictures and memories of some of God’s most beautiful creations and a better understanding of who I am, what I’m made of and how I want to live life.

Last, I hope to earn the title of hiker trash. I hope to learn how to appreciate the small things in life again, every second breathing in and out. I hope to adopt and embrace a trail family that can last the days of my life.

Nowadays I’m counting down, looking forward to the turn of the calendar. It’s the beginning of a new day.

The next adventure in my life will be like no other. My life will be my next adventure.