Oh well, better luck next time

I realized it wasn’t the time to do the trail for me for a myriad of reasons. First and foremost, I think I was using the trail as an escape from reality while in transition. Folks often ask thru-hikers if they’re running away from real life on their journeys, and I think — at least for me — I need to be in a place of clarity.

Overarching life pangs kept creeping in, ultimately preventing me from enjoying the experience properly. That paired with the memories of Andy and I rolling through those very hills made me nostalgic and feel that maybe one day we will end up being able to do it together. And whenever that time may be, will be the right time to complete it.

So, a short week and 100ish miles, but the trail will be returned to.