It takes a village....

One's dream of hiking the Appalachian Trail must be accompanied by a great support system. One thing in common with all of the books/blogs I have read that were written by people that have successfully completed the trail...is that they all had a support system in place. This is one dream that I personally believe CANNOT and SHOULD NOT be accomplished alone.

Two of the top people in my support system have been my parents. They have helped with gear, food, support and a temporary place to stay until I hit the trail. I have also had great friends and co-workers who have helped me with supplies and touching words of encouragement. And of course, one of my GREATEST contributors when it has come to words of encouragement, has been my sister. She has a way with words that always touches & moves my soul. I also want to thank my Aunt Emmie and her husband, Mike. They took us on a wonderful & inspiring hike this past fall, it was one of the major factors in pushing me to want to bring this dream to fruition. I also have a wonderful significant other who would lasso the moon for me if I asked. Ever since I came up with this crazy idea of hiking the AT, he has been by my side supporting me, and eventually coming to a decision to hike it along with me.

I also want to take a moment to thank the AMAZING, AMAZING, AMAZING staff at Weatherford's Outback in Pensacola. The staff there has been awesome at directing me to the right gear to get me through this hike.

I am fully aware that when it comes down to it, my two feet have to do the hiking...but my whole support system will be up there with me at the end summiting Mt. Katahdin.

So....I just wanted to say THANK YOU, to everyone in advance!
I so appreciate all of your contributions, and will need you more than ever once I actually start on Springer Mountain in GA!

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

-Lauren