Rikki's Appalachian Trail Fund

My name is Rikki. I love hiking and camping, and want desperately to hike the entire length of the Appalachian Trail, from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Katahdin, Maine, starting this coming spring. I don’t feel like the life I am trying to build will give me many more chances to disappear into nature by myself for up to six months, so it means a lot to me that I achieve it now while I have limited responsibilities, no children, an understanding partner, and a pause between community college and university.
Unfortunately, as is usually the case, while timing is perfect in many areas, it's absolutely ruinous in others. I live completely paycheck to paycheck. I have given up several things in preparation for this trip. I used to be a fairly heavy smoker, but I gave that up in November for a variety of reasons- chief among them to save money for better, more fulfilling things. I will not be buying any more clothes or shoes that are not specifically for hiking until I get back from the trail. I am pinching every penny and keeping my eyes on the prize. Help in any form- gear, donations, advice, words of encouragement- are all very much appreciated.

I will be documenting all of my planning and thoughts, as well as the actual hiking adventure, at my blog Muddy Combat Boots.