The final stretch

Just over 100 miles left to go. I've picked up my last re-supply box. All extra supplies have been mailed home. Nothing is standing in my way. Oh, except rivers with crazy high water levels, mountains made up of piles of boulders, and freezing temperatures. 

Despite still having a lot of obstacles in my way, I am feeling great about this final stretch of the Appalachian Trail. I've already overcome so many unexpected trials. For example a few days ago I accidentally sacrificed my trekking poles to the mountain gods, and had to hike up and down steep inclines without anything to take the pressure off my knees. I've also fallen more times than I care to admit, resulting in many colorful bruises, cuts, and new scars. I've gotten lost, ran out of food, and occasionally been creeped out by strangers on the trail. But despite everything, I've just kept walking. 

From the start I've looked at the Appalachian Trail as just one long walk in the woods. There has never been any doubt in my mind that I could finish the entire trail, because no matter what happened, I just kept telling myself to walk. As long as one foot continued to move in front of the other, I knew I could do this. 

So here I am, at the edge of the 100 mile wilderness, about to complete a task that is achieved by only 25% of people who set out to do it. I guess I should feel special, but I really don't. I've just spent 4.5 months walking, no big deal. 

So I have 7 more days to walk in the woods. The enjoy the simple life and avoid adult responsibilities. To take time to admire the natural beauty of the world we live in. And most importantly to cherish my time with Roxy and focus on just being happy.