I'll be beginning my NOBO thru hike on 4/4/14 and am having worries on my approach to the hike (but I think its just my nerves/anxiety getting to me). I feel like I've done considerable research and should be confident about what I'm doing, but am getting the pre-hike jitters.
I'm only planning on a few mail drops for food (Fontana, Glencliff, Monson), and have created a resupply plan based on the AT Guide and online resources. I realize the I cannot anticipate trail/weather conditions and it will be modified while on the trail. I think this approach is fine, but anyone have input?
Also, I'm hoping to stay at a hotel/hostel once every 7-10 days but haven't really contacted any. Is it reasonable to call a couple days ahead and secure a spot? I know I'll be in the middle of the "hiker bubble" so places will be busy. I haven't read any info on how/when people decide to stay at any type of lodging...it seems like everybody does it on the fly.
Are these worries rational...or is it just my anxiety? Does anyone else feel this way? Any insight to keep me calm?