Then, last year, December 3rd was my final official day at my job. I had been at my position for 6.5 years and had been involved with the organization since 2007. I felt like my job was a huge part of my DNA. Its mission certainly was among the most important parts of my life.

Walking away from that was extremely hard. I loved so much of it, and I loved so many of the people involved. But I was burned out and very unhealthy. I needed time.

This December 3rd, I am remembering not just Springer Mountain and the Appalachian Trail, but the year I’ve had because I took a deep breath and left the security of a dream job.

I am extremely grateful for my family, who understood and accepted the fact that I needed to make a change They helped me get ready to sell my house. They also supported me through the loss of my best pet ever, Mitsie, who died last December. I am beyond grateful that I was home, with her, during her last month of life. I also was able to be in a safe place during my bout with Covid-19 and be around when it found my parents.

It was a very strange, but good, year. I cannot list everything I am grateful for, but here are a few highlights in pictures.