The world shines as i cross the macon county line.

Its all coming together now, i leave tomorrow to begin my journey. I'm in Dawsonville, Georgia  at the luxury super 8 (mini fridge in room constitutes luxury in these parts) and just seeing all of the trees starting to bloom on the hills is making me want to wander out towards the woods. I must say i was fortunate enough to have a great group of family and friends behind me (that means you mom and dad!), if it weren't for all of you guys i wouldn't be able to do this.

Its funny to see all of the planning that has lead up to this and just how beneficial that has been. I'm more focused and excited than i have ever been. I've seen a spike in my interest for meeting people, i've become a better listener not only to others but to myself. I know that this time that i will have to explore will be a huge point of growth for me. Who knows whats around the next hill, the next horizon. I leave for this trip not only with the knowledge that i will be seeing and inviting new people and experiences into my life, but that i will be saying goodbye to what i've held so dear in these past few years. Goodbye to the internet, to the comfort and familiarity of my friends, family, and warm cozy bed, the instant gratification of a delicious big box from tacobell while drunk. Goodbye to my adorable little puppies, more importantly.... goodbye to me.

Of course none of that means dick if i can't actually hike the beginning of the thing. So its a good thing i've got some people to hike the way up with. My sister, and mother will be hiking the approach trail located at Amicalola Falls State Park to springer mountain. The 8.1 mile approach trail is touted by many as a very difficult hike, even by those who thru-hike. Perhaps  its difficulty has to do with it being the first long stretch of hike with elevation change (2,000 ft) that many hikers have done, including myself and entire hiking party. So will we all give up and retreat to the  hotel, back to the stale pizza crust and busch light- the answer to this and more in the next installment of the inexperienced hiker!