Heading North!

After months of researching, planning and preparing, Brandon set out from the top of Springer Mountain yesterday to make his dream of hiking the AT become a reality. We all think and talk about things we would like to accomplish, but having the courage and the discipline to make the necessary sacrifices to attain these achievements are, most of the time, just a little too difficult or take us too far out of our comfort zone for these feats to ever actually materialize. I admire Brandon so much for his audacity and determination and his Dad and I are more proud of him than words can say! OKAY NOW, enough of the motherly chatter---I better cease and desist before Brandon revokes my blogging privileges!

During the car ride to Gainsville Saturday, Brandon was telling us about how touched and humbled he was by all his friends that showed up on Friday night to offer him their well wishes. His Dad and I are so grateful to know that he has such a wonderful support group and we wish to express our thanks to all of you! I hope that you will all continue to keep him in your thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.

When the time came to say goodbye and his Dad, his brother, Taylor, and I were preparing to get back in the car and leave, we were running through the last minute check list (as moms and dads have to do!) Brandon was very patient with us and answered "yes, I have it." and "yes, I'm good." He finally said, (with his usual Brandon humor) "I have everything, now all I need to do is go walk a couple of thousand miles." We all laughed, hugged him long and hard, shed a few tears and watched him leave until we could no longer see him through the trees. I know in my heart that he will be fine. He has a great head on his shoulders and I have all the confidence in the world in him that he will meet each challenge that comes his way and persevere. (Okay, so did you think I would really stop with the motherly chatter?! Not a chance!)

Wishing you Godspeed, blue skies and safe travels dear son! You're in our hearts and even though the distance between us grows with each passing day, we're never more than a phone call away.