Officially Jobless and Ready to Hike

It’s 75 degrees in south eastern PA in February, I just walked out the door for the last time at both of my jobs that put me in a financially stable place to actually pursue my thru-hike, and I think I saw a few pigs flying around. Five years of day dreaming and I am now two weeks away from standing on Springer Mountain. This is insane! What’s even more insane is that I am not freaking out. My personality tends to make me a nervous wreck before life changing events, but I am calm about what is about to happen. I didn’t feel weird on my last day at either of my jobs; I just walked out the door and left. So many co-workers and customers expressed their well wishes and encouragement so it is hard for me to feel anything else but ready to start the trail.

Customers came with well wishes AND flowers!

The last words of wisdom a regular customer shared with me upon leaving Levante last night was, “finish the trail for those of us who can’t”. He said it in such a matter of fact tone and it was then that I realized that I have more people supporting this thru-hike than I realize. His words hit me like a ton of bricks and will be in the back of my mind when I need encouragement on the days when I have little steam moving me forward.

I have two weeks now to get my act together, pack and repack my backpack for fun approximately 10,000 times, and see everyone who is important to me. I’ve always been an on-the-go person, so I’m focusing my energy on staying in the present moment and creating memories that will help give me momentum up the mountains. Let me just say, sometimes I still can’t believe what I am about to do but I have never felt so ready!

 

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The taste of sweet, sweet victory.

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Comments 1

  • Ellen Kostrubiak : Mar 8th

    In just a few more hours your dream turns into reality! We leave for Georgia in the morning! The parties, the visitors and well wishes have all wrapped and now we are even packed to go…unbelievable! Always remember we are here cheering you on, knowing you are embarking on the adventure of a lifetime! Each day know we are thinking about you and consider yourself royally hugged! Be safe, be strong, and make those smart decisions!! I love you to the moon & back….Love always Mom

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