Let the Adventure Begin!

The Appalachian Trail (AT) is a mesmerizing National Scenic Trail spanning from Georgia to Maine along the Appalachian Mountains.  I should also mention that the trail goes up and over every possible peak in the Appalachian mountains. I am lucky to have the time and resources to attempt this challenging and rewarding 2,190 mile thru-hike with my husband Robby and my younger brother Jeffy.

This is my attempt to write a blog to keep our family and friends updated on our progress - Hi guys, we haven't been chomped on by a bear (yet) 😝 !

There are a plethora of reasons why I want to hike the trail. I won't weigh you down with all of them, but I will explain a few important reasons:

• My mom was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 23 years ago when I was five years old.  She can't walk. She can't do a lot of things, but she wants to. I am going to be hiking the Appalachian Trail for Momma Lip.

• My dad spent a lot of time on the AT when he was a Scoutmaster in the 80's and 90's.  It was always a dream of his to complete a thru-hike, but life and responsibilities got in the way.  And let me tell you, when he wanted to hike the trail things were a lot different.  Heavier gear, resupplying was almost entirely mail drops, no cellphones...😱 NO INTERNET!  When Robby and I approached my dad, and confessed our love for the trail and our thoughts on thru-hiking, he was completely supportive.

• I love a challenge.  I have the time.  I have the support of everyone close to me. So, why not?  My husband is my #1 supporter and always encourages me to better myself.  He loves me unconditionally.  

• To strengthen my relationship with my husband (if that is even possible) and my baby brother.

I always imagined I would be hiking from Georgia to Maine.  Up until about ten days ago that's what we planned.  This changed when I looked at the number of people attempting a thru-hike starting in Georgia at the same time as us.  I was discouraged. I love people and love being around new people, but I am looking for a full wilderness experience, not a tent city of people.  My dad is passionate about respecting the trail and taking care of it for future generations.  Over populated trails can permanently damage the trail.  After doing research we decided on a "flipflop" hike.  We are starting in Virginia and walking north to Mt. Katahdin in Maine.  After we summit Mt. Katahdin we will get a ride south to Virginia and continue walking south to Springer Mountain in Georgia.

So, I would like to introduce us!  We are flipflop hikers and we are damn proud of it!  We start our long haul tomorrow morning (March 28th) and it's expected to rain.  Is rain on the first day of a thru-hike good luck, like a wedding? Well if it isn't, it is now!

We are excited to be sharing our story with you.  Thanks for reading.  Happy Trails

Email us at flipflophikers@gmail.com

Mile:  0

Blisters:  0
Bears: 1

First Bear Encounter at West Virginia Rest Stop