There were close to fifteen hikers that arrived last night. They were out for a weekend trip and planned to stay the evening. I was happy to have company, even if I was half asleep. We talked for a bit, then Norman and I rolled over and attempted to close our eyes and get some rest.
Around 6am, I was up, just before the sun came up. Today was my final walk out and I’m all sorts of ready. As quietly as possible, I made my morning coffee. Then packed my bag and was on the trail before anyone was awake.
I saw a few people heading to McAfee Knob for the sunrise. I was headed southbound in search of greener pastures, literally. The trail led me up and over several ridges and finally dropped down to an open field. I hadn’t seen anything like this since Pennsylvania. It was easygoing and the temperature was fairly nice.
My friends Ron and Elisa had text me to confirm what direction to take on the trail. The map was indicating that the AT headed east and west, not north and south. So typical of this trail since we go all directions, not just north and south. Once I determined where they were, Elisa headed northbound even though it was truly west.
I dropped back into the forest and followed a creek. Before long, there my friend was! I was in tears seeing Elisa. Last year, when I started this trail, she hiked the Approach Trail with me from Amicalola Falls to Springer Mountain. What a perfect way to end this day, with my friend who started this journey with me last year.
We hugged and held each other tight. I finally caught my breath and after talking with another couple about all things trail, we headed south. It was so nice sharing my final footsteps with my dearest friend! Before long, we arrived at the exact location that I left the trail last year. And then I kissed the sign!
Now, is time to kick my feet up, relax and enjoy my life off-trail. I will be spending time with my East Coast friends before flying home. Honestly, it’ll be an adjustment not getting back out there and hiking. But I can tell you, my feet are rejoicing and I think Norman is ready to call it quits.
I want to thank you all for your love, your supportive comments and following me on this journey. I will be taking some time off, but come October, I will be on the move again. This time Norman will stay home and I’ll have my best friend with me.
George and I are heading to Europe to embark on a dream come true. We will be walking from Lisbon to Santiago on The Camino-Portuguese Way. I cannot imagine what the Lord will have in store for us. Until then, may God be the center of your life and the guiding light that keeps you on a righteous path. Much love and Godspeed, until we meet again…
kellyhikes4god 
You’re done??? Not sure how i will start my day now! I’ve so enjoyed reading your blogs and following your journey – you are an inspiration to commitment and perseverance. Enjoy your time off the trail my friend, and a different kind of journey in October with George (although i can’t believe you’re leaving or Norman home!). Looking forward to seeing you soon ❤️
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Oh my goodness. I wondered if I was gonna get called out with leaving Norman. I may have to rethink that 🤣
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Thanks, it was so interesting following you.
Well done Kelly !
Praise Jesus !
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Thank you Joe.
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Congratulations Kelly! Just an hour ago I tagged your name in a friend’s feed who is at the Camino right now. His name is Dave Hall from Wisconsin and he did a 12 hour Camino challenge yesterday. I hope you can connect. I don’t know when he’ll come back from Europe but he is beyond about that trail!
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Love to connect with your friend. Wouldn’t that be a hoot to see Dave out there.
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Congratulations Kelly🎉
Love and blessings,
Janice
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Thanks J. Look forward to seeing you very soon
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Tears of Happiness for you and of course George too! Congratulations Kelly!!! Looking forward to catching up in person.
God Bless
Nanette
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Look forward to seeing you. And George too 🤣
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May the Lord Bless you and keep you and make his face shine upon you . May you see Him in every place your feet take you ,
Your Light 💡 is bright keep it burning 🔥
Till you see Him Face to Face. Have a
Beautiful time in October with your love
George .. Your Smile was a true inspiration for the Lord, that no matter what happens
The JOY of the Lord was your Strength.
Love ♥️ you Kelly Barbara 🎈🎈🎈🎈🎈
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This made me smile big! I am so thrilled to be off the trail and enjoying my new strength and endurance. The Lord has transformed me inside and out. Much love
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Congratulations on your completion of this amazing path!! I have enjoyed reading your posts and of course, it was a joy to meet you in Bethel. All the best to you on your journey forward! Homespun
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Thanks so much Homespun! So glad we met and so appreciated your over the top support! Hope you get some hiking in.
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You rock Kelly! Congratulations!
I have friends on the Camino right now.
Jay
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Seems like the Camino is a popular place right now. Much more so than the AT 🤣
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It has been fun to follow them. I think this is their 11th day.
Hope you do a blog so I can follow you and George.
Have fun and take care.
Jay
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