I would not have been able to complete any of my long-distance hikes if it were not for the help of trail angels and the serendipitous trail magic that lined the path. I am especially grateful to Steve, J, the Cruzans, Katie, the Trocki family, the Smiths, Kathy, Julianne, the Randolphs, and the McCargo family for helping me through my first 2,175 miles. A special nod goes out to companies like Diamond Brand Outdoors, Mountain Techs, Lolë, whole foods, blue ridge Mountain sports, INOV-8 shoes, and Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine that have been a part of subsequent hikes. Most of all, I want to thank my father, husband, and good friends Warren Doyle and David Horton—it is amazing what a girl can do with four great guys supporting her.
To the team that helped me with this book, thank you! I thought that thru-hiking was hard until I tried to publish a book. Thank you to my dad, Warren, Sarah, Jeff, Isaiah, James, and Horton for your edits and initial feedback. James, I know it took a lot of time and effort to illustrate this book, but I couldn’t trust it to anyone else—I am forever grateful. Big Mo, thank you for the beautiful ways that you have captured my heart and the trail in your photographs. And to Eric, Margot, and the crew at Beaufort Books, you guys are the best. Thank you for believing in me and making the book the best it could be without manipulating me as an author or as a character. It is so nice to think of my publisher and editor as friends—constructive friends, but friends nonetheless.
As an author, hiker, and woman, I am indebted to Camp Greystone, Samford university, Ash Lawn-Highland, and Camp Joy for providing environments where I was free to learn and grow. These places made me feel like anything was possible—even the Appalachian Trail. I also owe a special debt to my mom, who taught me the importance of an active outdoor lifestyle as a child, and to my two older brothers, who made me “tough” and taught me how to keep up with the boys. Finally, I want to thank my husband, family, and close friends for walking through the valleys, enjoying the mountain views, and traveling the trail of life beside me. It is so nice to have hiking partners.
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