If ever there was a situation that would make one stop and think "I really would like to leave civilization for a while and wander off into the woods for a few months," it would be a trip to Wal-Mart at 10:00 at night looking for a couple of last minute bungee cords. That was me this evening. I walked into the seemingly wide open garage of fluorescence with its aisles upon aisles of mostly useless "I've just got to have it" things. Some of the people looked like the walking dead under the overwhelming lighting that must have been created just to make us look like zombies (very popular in offices worldwide). Over the speakers, Jimmy Buffet was serenading all of us with a touching story about his love of cheeseburgers and his idea of paradise. All I could think was, "Thank God I'm walking off into the woods day after tomorrow." I did find the bungee cords I needed. Let's face it, when you need a bungee cord at 10:00 at night ... where else can you go? It also served the greater purpose of reaffirming the fact that I can't wait to start walking to Maine.
Mom and Dad are hanging in well. They've gotten a map of the trail and proudly hung it in the kitchen to keep track of me when I call them. They've got a box of resupply food, shoes, and a couple of shirts ready to go when I need it. I can only hope that everyone else is so fortunate to have family and friends like me. I'm 32, quit the job that no longer suited me, put all of my belongings in storage, and moved to my parents home to prepare for my trip and to use as a spring board back into the "civilized" world when I return. A lot of people might have family and friends who may not agree with such decisions, but not me. After concluding that I am not crazy, stupid or flighty, everyone has supported me.
I am aware of a few certainties: I will be cold; I will walk through rain - a lot of rain; I will be hungry; happiness, sadness, fear, and bewilderment will all be experienced; blisters; pain and soreness will be felt every day; and I'll learn even more about myself that I am already aware. I can't wait to get started. I hope to make it to Maine, but really I just want to enjoy my time on the trail. 5 days, 5 weeks, or 5 months - it will benefit me. For the first time in a while, I feel like I'm actually doing what I'm supposed to right now. One mile at a time, one day at a time. I'll make it as far as I'm supposed to.
6 comments:
Hey Bec,
I've been thinking about you non-stop, especially at night! I hope you are making it safe and sound...I'm sure you've met some people along the way and are just fine!! I'm just your overly anxious friend:) And by the way, your card was hilarious! I'm not sure 'they' exist!?!?
Hope you are well! Can't wait to see a post on your blog or hear from Donna that she received a phone call...I think I'll feel much better. Talk to you soon!
Love, Liz
Okay, obviously I'm not 'anonymous'...how funny is that from your completely computer illiterate friend!!! I will figure this out but I guess for now I will be 'anonymous'.....HA!HA!HA! AKA Liz:)
Liz,
You're a riot! I share your sentiments about Ms. Becca. I just heard from her as I'm sure you did. Becca, I am soooo glad you're finally off and doing what you want to do and on your terms (not including nature's teardrops) and your terms alone. Dan and I are thinking of you.
Cruise Control??? I like it. On to Maine! AB
I am so excited for you and so jealous!! I cannot believe you had a run in with Bears already. That is so scary. U better take care of yourself girl!!
Oh, that last comment was from me, Olivia
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