Hey Everybody!
Well, after a much needed break for a few days, Griff is back out on the trail. The Smokies started off pretty rough, so he took a few days off and we met up in Gatlinburg to spend some time and be bums together. The weekend was filled with smiles and tears. But all in a great and positive way that life should be.
Talking a lot, we tried to focus the conversation around what the purpose of this hike was for Griff. It has been a dream of his for over 10 years to go out on the trail and thru hike from Georgia to Maine. He didn’t have a real purpose from what he wanted out of this besides being able to do it. It was a challenge he wanted to face. I don’t think he expected what type of challenge it was going to be. He knew the physical, which he is pleasantly surprised to be handling very well. He wasn’t expecting the mental toll it would take out of him. I wasn’t either. I knew it would be tough being here handling everyday life, but seeing him and leaving again, wow that was rough. For the both of us. And it’s not just the missing of the other person. The meaning behind everything, when you don’t have any other words but I love you and I got your back. I think Griff is a little overwhelmed by the amount of support he has received and he is so appreciative.
I think this experience is helping him grow so much. Life in general is easy to take for granted. People around you everyday are so easy to take for granted. Appreciation for those is sometimes hard to see when the daily grind is just beating you down and you don’t feel like you are moving forward in life. You have to step out of that comfort zone and force your way through a difficult challenge to understand what is important to you. And I think that is what he is getting from this hike. It’s not just about the physical capability. It’s about the mental game. You have to be okay to be alone with yourself, your own thoughts, for a long period of time. Being out in nature 24/7 is a good challenge for that. I’m here, watching it from the sidelines, and I can see such a change in him that I don’t think he has fully come to realize yet. Having intense emotions, being able to recognize and express them, and moving forward. Nobody really likes expressing emotions because of the vulnerability it creates. But no one can ever fully understand where you are coming from and what you have been through. Only you can. And if you are okay with it, that is all that matters. Spread the positive, embrace the emotions. Feel all the feels.
Along with that, seeing the change this has brought on for him motivates me. I need to step out of my comfort zone, give myself a new challenge, learn things about myself and what I find important. The phases we go through in life never stop. You don’t just become the person you are and never change again. It’s a constant hill. You climb, you descent, you plateau. Face the climb head on, push yourself knowing it will all be worth it when you reach the top. Take your time on the descent, watch your step, and remember to breathe knowing that you have faced a huge challenge and accomplished it. And embrace the plateau, the much needed break. Enjoy the contentedness for a bit and rest. Then, repeat.
I am not sure if that fully makes sense, but it works for me. This whole journey is Griff’s climb, and he is pushing through with such strength and courage. I have felt all the feels I can feel in these last 4 weeks, and we will both go through all of them again and again throughout this adventure. But, the ending, however it turns out, will be amazing.
Enjoy some pics of the trek around Fontana Dam and before the Smokies!
Until next time…
Hang in there like a hair in a biscuit. Your making great memories. Your thoughts of positivity will get you through the misery of cold-rain and lack of good sleep. Remember days are getting longer and warmer. Keep the faith there will be other groups coming along that you can tag along with for a day or a week. This is YOUR journey, so take it at your speed.
If I only had a smidge of your courage…….
What a true testament of who you are and who you will be at journeys end.
I have never met you but I am so proud of you, young man. You have EXACTLY what it takes to go forward in my humble opinion. People are watching you from afar…..and wishing we had the ambition to do just what you are doing across this beautiful country.
…….a friend of yo momma’s ❤️
So incredibly proud of your journey. Made me cry watching your video. Getting some rest and family love will give you encouragement to keep going. ❤️ Aunt Becky and Uncle Terry
Hang in there Kevin! We are all cheering you on!! Love you!
Oh my, you are both too amazing people!! It takes so much to be able to do something like; on both sides. You both will be changed and will grow from this experience!! Griff, way to go on chasing a dream you’ve had. When bryan first told me about it I thought for sure you had lost you mind; but it sounds like you are growing into who you truly want to be!! Continued prayers for safety on your journey friend
This is incredible! Don’t make your momma panic, stay in touch. Love the updates
Kev
Sending prayers & positive thoughts to help you through your journey. I know these tough times are just that, tough, but you are strong & brave. Just attempting this is more than most of us would ever do, so however far you get kudos to you! ❤️
Tara, I love hearing your perspective of this whole adventure. You are getting stronger and more grounded from this experience. You both needed this and I am excited for you two!
I’m loving watching your journey. Makes me wish I had the opportunity to do what you’re doing. I thought I was on the wrong site when I saw your clean shaven face. You’re so handsome. I’m praying for your success and safety.
How do we find the You Tube site?
Hi! Check out the appalachian trail page and there is a link located there. It’s called GriffontheAT. Thank you!!