Preparation

    As I write this post, my mind scampers to and fro all the miscellaneous things we have left to do before the trail. With the New Year rolling in, the days are getting shorter and we are getting closer to the initiation of our hike. It's hard for me to sit still without squealing in giddy. No more 8-5, no more alarm clocks, no more "to-do" lists, no more staring at a computer all day instead of being outside, and no more having to plan a month in advance to go backpacking for a weekend. The ultimate point is what we have been saving, slaving, braving, and praying for the last 6-7 months is FINALLY around the bend. It is surreal to say the least.

    Are we ready for the trail? Yes and No. Some days more than others. We have been preparing though--Mind, Body, Spirit, and Savings.

    We're building our mind by researching past thru-hiker's experience. We're finding what worked and didn't work, and using discernment for own decisions. We've been scouting out the best and lightest gear. We've purchased items and returned them numerous times due to better findings. It's been trial and error thus far, and we have yet to begin.

    Our body preparation isn't the foremost focus because we are both well fit and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. We run an average of 5.5 miles 2-3 times a week. Jeremy does some addition workouts, but I just stick to the running....and eating.

    Our Spirit preparation is our number one priority, and it will continue to be. We our building our Spirit in the Word. We are seeking new revelation day in and day out. We want this hike to serve as a purpose. Not only for the ultra, amazing endeavor we plan to accomplish, but for the main purpose of showing others how good The Lord is and His unconditional love. We are here for His glory not our own.

    The last preparation is our savings. We have been WORKING. By that, I mean we have been doing almost anything that pays that is legal. Okay, maybe not to that extent but we have been working A LOT. Jeremy has been at his main job and got a part-time job at a clothing/outdoor store to help fund our trip. He also does the billing and some deliveries for his grandmother's business, and he does all sorts of odd jobs from working for his parents around the house to mowing lawns, cleaning windows, etc. His work ethnic is over and above average. I've been working my main job, and babysit and housesit on the side every chance I get. We've also received some generous gifts from friends and loved ones. Every 2 dollars counts for 1 mile paid for per person.  The total miles walked between the both of us will be 4,400 (aprox. 2,200 miles from GA to ME), making the trip $8,800 total. Also to note, that does not include bills covered while we are gone or gear replacement. Needless-to-say, every bit of income helps.

    Not only have we been working all we can, but we have been living off of the bare necessities. No monthly shopping sprees, no pedicures/manicures, no eating out every week, no frivolous spending, etc. We've limited our spending to food, shelter, transportation, tithe & offerings, gifts, and gear. The rest goes towards our trip. It has been nothing but rewarding so far. The Lord has blessed us with every good thing and we lack for nothing. We truly value the simplicity of life. I sure am glad we enjoy it now because life is about to get a whole lot simpler in the next couple months...