The warm-up

So began my journey on the AT...I was dropped off at a State Park in MD and hiked through the forest and hills into PA, the warm up hike. I couldn't be more thankful that I did this because of how much I learned, not only about what it takes to backpack the AT but about myself. It was so much harder than I thought, but without the hard you cannot appreciate the easy...and oh how I love to appreciate the easy:) I wouldn't change a thing, not my heavy pack, my over abundance of food and water, not my mental collapse, and not my aching body and feet. All of this gave me the eduction I needed to be a better hiker, a smarter, wiser hiker. The trail is not for everyone, but everyone is invited to try. It will take it's toll on many; if not all of it's visitors, but those who accomplish what they set out to do is a different person than the one who started. Even my little warm up made me realize what there is to gain out there, and I am completely excited about it. I believe that being out there makes one more respectful of others as well as nature and conservation. A stronger, better, and maybe even kinder individual. I know for me, I was taken back to a much more primitive time...a time when life was simpler and people were more friendly and caring. I am looking so forward to getting back out there to experience  my "big" journey on the Appalachian Trail...