DAY 0 - Feb 21

The trip down has finally ended. Tomorrow, our journey back home begins. After 14 hours of travelling, beginning at 5 am and ending at 8 pm, the campsite is set up and we are in bed. Although long, the day went very well, flights were quick and simple, and there was minimal traffic leaving Greenville. Also, shoutout to Andrew Helms for driving us 7 hours rountrip, could not be more appreciative for his generosity. 

I am not quite sure how to describe what I am feeling. I am confident in my abilities, yet fearful that I have not taken into account some aspect of the trail. I am anxious about starting, but also looking forward to accepting the challenges that come my way and overcoming them. I am overjoyed that I have this opportunity to attempt and hopefully complete something that many people either never have the chance or will to do. I want to be on of the 7% of hikers that complete the trail this year. I am curious as to what lies ahead. 

I truly believe that humanity has lost its connection to nature fundamentally. Sure, modernization is truly a blessing in so many ways, however, I look forward to discovering or at least searching for the relationship that humans once had with nature. Even though I am bringing modern equipment on this trip, I do believe that I will still be able to fully experience nature for what it is. 

I look forward to sharing this adventure with fellow through hikers, family, and friends. 

Finally I should mention that Walker got lost today coming out of Zaxby's. Andrew and I got into the car a bit before him cause he was doing something inside. He then came out the door, and thought he was on the wrong side of the building so he started walking around towards the other side. He then calls calls me and has the audacity to ask where I am at.... this is gonna be fun. 

Goodnight, 

Tyler.