Well I tried but I just couldn't get past Franklin, North Carolina. Even after all the preparation and research, I just wasn't mentally prepared for a thru hike this year. I am happy to be home but still think about the trail all the time and even consider dropping everything and heading east to where I left off. I learned stuff about myself and I consider this to be a learning experience for a future thru hike when my wife can join me. Anyways, thanks to everyone here for all the help and tips. Good luck to all those planning their hike!