Chia Pet

I am officially hiking the Appalachian trail. Today, day four, happens to be my first zero day. The forecast predicted heavy rains with thunder and lighting storms tonight. I also have some weight I needed to drop in my pack (my official beginning weight when weighed at amiclola falls was 39lbs) today and the possibility of lightening lead me to my first zero day.  The trail has been so beautiful with very interesting and kind people. The first day involved hiking 600+ steps, along with the miles after that. It there is one learning experience and moment I would like to share would be this: The first night camping at Spring shelter mountain .2 miles north of the summit. This night was theist experience of sleeping in a hammock, which was an experience…with strong winds, improper setup of my rain fly and underquilt lead to a freezing cold night. This was a challenging, yet eye opening experience that caused me to grow and learn.  There are so many hikers around. This is a lovely thing, because of the connections I have made with people. Saying this, as many loved ones may already know, I am an introvert. I naturally excell when I have time alone to reflect and look around/be in the moment. The conversations and interactions I’ve experienced are super lovel and the balance of silence and awareness has been a fantastic combination.  Anywho, I find myself a little hesitant tonight for the reason of sleeping in a hiker hostel FILLED with hikers. There is opportunity to pick sickness up, but thankfully I am staying hydrating, limiting my time in the room, and washing my hands. Sending heathy vibes to my body and mind.  As far as physical conditions go, I am feeling strong. Sore muscles have definitely showed their presence. Stretching and basic yoga moves have definitely been a key factor to a mostly happy body! Along with a happy body is also a pair of happy feet. I have been concentrating on being proactive to take my boots and socks off throughout the day. A combination of this, airing out my feet, and stretching my feet has lead to a positive outcome.  I understand that four days on trail doesn’t seem long a distance in comparison to the AT in it’s entirety. Funny enough though, I have this beautiful gut feeling that my end location has possibility to take my last thru hiking steps at the base of Katahdin. I still am working on the whole idea of one day at a time.  Time to wrap this up…I am getting back on trail tomorrow and heading north once again 🙂 time to let this severe thunderstorms to pass threw. Thank goodness I love severe weather!! I will be in town next three days from tomorrow. On Sunday I hope to be strolling through Hiawasse GA. After this day, I have every intention to go four days without heading into town to resupply. This leaves me arriving to Frankling NC Thursday…I’m still getting the hang of resupply. Gatlinburg TN will be my next place to stop at the post office. BTW my trail name has been chosen yeti friends I have met along the way. Prairie Star and Sailor Jerry have named me Chia Pet for my sprouting syrup I will be starting tomorrow (huge shoutout to my lovely cousin Leah, thank you my amazing cousin xoxo)!  Over and out friends..follow the path that brings you happiness and love 🙂