Since I have some time off work, I thought it would be good to work in a visit to Mom’s, Boulder, and my family in Atlanta before hitting the trail.

Mom lives in a small artist community in Arizona. Bisbee used to have an active copper mine, but after it closed down the town re-invented itself as a cute little artist town. Art cars, galleries, and quaintly painted houses are typical Bisbee, and the old timey downtown definitely draws a crowd of tourists. The iconic “B” on the red dirt hill reminds everyone that Bisbee is a unique place. I was happy to get to visit with Lisa who had heard myriad stories that she can now associate with a real experience.

Boulder, Colorado is what Lisa and I consider our hometown. I lived in this amazing place for 40 years before deciding it had changed enough that I was ready for a new adventure and got rid of all my stuff, sold my house, and moved out to Hawaii. In a way, stopping here is coming full circle for Lisa and me. We met way back in junior high growing up in Boulder, and so it seemed appropriate that we’d say goodbye to each other here before we walk our separate trails. We treated ourselves to a night together at the Flagstaff House — a fancy restaurant with a fancy view — which Lisa had never been to. It was a really nice way to celebrate our relationship.

Getting on the plane to Atlanta was tough with so many emotions. It didn’t help that I left my ID in my other bag. Agreeing to a vigorous pat down in front of countless suspicious strangers got me through the security line and on the plane. I can only imagine what they’d all think if I showed up with long hair, a bushy beard, and smelling like I’ve been sleeping in the woods for several months. At least I had a shower this morning and my last shave last night!

I spent the evening with my cousin Heather and her husband Matt. It’s great to connect with family before embarking on this adventure. They dropped me off halfway to Uncle John and Aunt Cathy’s house up near Gainesville, GA and I spent a lovely evening with them on Lake Lanier catching up.

Tomorrow morning they’ll drop me off at the beginning of the approach trail in Amicalola Falls State Park. From there I’ll just have what’s on my back to keep me going (and slow me down). My next update will be from the trail! I can’t wait to get hiking.