The hike was more difficult than I had ever imagined. I set out the first day, expecting an idyllic walk in the woods; instead, I walked in rain. In a few days, snow and ice coated everything. Extreme loneliness ambushed me. But sweet surprises also waited, gifts that far surpassed my expectations: trail magic, kindness of strangers, exhilaration, beauty, camaraderie, and spirituality of the trail.

Your journey toward your dream will constantly surprise you. You will be disappointed at times, but you'll also find unexpected gifts and blessings. You will most assuredly be surprised by the surprises.