Happy Trails, to me?
Here I sit less than 9 hours away from the beginning of an adventure that was over a year in the making. If the editor and content manager of my website weren’t sitting here with me, I’d probably be going out of my mind. And if the TV producer wasn’t hiking with me the first two days, I would have a lot more anxiety about tomorrow.
However, I do feel prepared. I’ve done the reading, asked all the questions I could, the rest I’ll have to learn as I go.
The last several days have been a blur. About 25% of my gear was purchased within the last week, including my first several days of food. Hours ago I had all my gear spread out on two hotel beds sorting the musts froms the mustn’ts, the needs from the wants, and any extra ounces I could eliminate. I’m sure the days and weeks ahead will point out other things I can live without, but I’ve always been an overpacker 
Other than being tired and ready for bed, I am so excited to get started tomorrow. The beginning of the trail is a bit misleading. While the marker on top of Springer Mountain announces that it is the southern terminus of the trail, one must first hike 8.8 miles up the mountain from the visitor center (otherwise known as the approach trail). Many parts of this approach trail are labeled “strenuous,” including the 604 stairs that climb up Amicalola Falls.
Since I will not be able to have Starbucks in the morning, I made sure to have it twice today.
Special thanks to Allison (who edits my posts and content) and Brian (the brains behind the construction of the site). With that said…there’s a comfy bed with my name on it. From across the room is just said “HEY…I’m the last hotel bed you’re going to sleep in for some time. Do the right thing. Get a good night of sleep.”
Ok bed, ok.
Yay! But did you take your snowshoes?
See you in Maine!
Comment by mandy — March 29, 2009 @ 12:46 pm
Chris, we love you buddy and are praying with you along this hike.
Comment by Celeste and Nathan — March 29, 2009 @ 2:21 pm
chris… I love you and I just prayed for you and will continue to do both!! this website is sweet by the way!
Comment by heather — March 29, 2009 @ 9:54 pm
So excited for you Chris, r u bringing any good reading materials along?
and..how long is this whole thing supposed to take??
praying for you
Comment by matty e — March 29, 2009 @ 10:57 pm
Hey Chris — your website is pretty sweet. West Coast tour will be praying for you!
Comment by Ange — March 30, 2009 @ 1:08 am
Chris- I had no idea you were planning something like this! We’re praying for you, and I’m secretly a little jealous. It obviously sounds like the trip of a lifetime! have fun!
Comment by sara murphy timmer — March 30, 2009 @ 8:50 am
Chris,
I am so proud of you. Stay safe and don’t taunt the bears! I am praying for you today.
Comment by Megan Lloyd — March 30, 2009 @ 10:03 pm
Hey friend, I am beyond excited for you! Know that I’m praying for ya from across the ocean. Love the website! and your little slideshow - awesome. take care friend love ya, Amy
Comment by Amy H — March 31, 2009 @ 4:56 am
¡Que Dios te bendiga! ¡Gracias por usar tu voz por los que no tienen voz!
Comment by Stacy K. — March 31, 2009 @ 6:48 pm
At least you have a northface tent.
Comment by Matt Armstrong — March 31, 2009 @ 8:06 pm
Hey Chris,
I was thinking of you the day you started the AT. I was hiking in Kodachrome Basin in Utah with 40 mph winds and sand in my teeth! Hope you have a better start to your journey.
Comment by Tom Mosher — March 31, 2009 @ 9:16 pm
Hey, Christopher! This sounds so very exciting, we’ll be “watching” your journey from Bardstown! We’ll keep you (and your parents) in our thoughts and prayers! STAY SAFE!
Carson wants to know how you will charge your MP3 player!
Comment by Ann & Greg, Carson & Marie — March 31, 2009 @ 10:39 pm
Praying for you to have a wonderful, wonderful experience. Praying for you to stay warm and well during these cold, wet days!
Comment by Jane — April 6, 2009 @ 10:46 pm