On my last backpacking trip just before I left for Nepal last October, ironically in the Smokies, I had a critical equipment malfunction… the dreaded fatal-boot-blow-out. Thankfully, it was toward the end of the trip, and I had close to 500 magnificent miles of pure adventure on these bad boys. As every avid hiker eventually experiences, the need for a new pair of boots is a sad realization that slowly seeps in with every step. I knew it was coming, but buying new hiking footwear has always been a dismal chore.

I have been wearing the same brand/make of boot for many years and would stock up on them when they went on sale, or I stumbled upon a timely coupon. But alas, the heartbreaking day inevitably arrives when you discover they have discontinued your style. ARGH! So, I did my research, chose another model from my favorite brand, and headed to my local outdoor outfitter to try them on.

While traveling there, I asked my guides and angels to help me choose the best pair for my needs and released any concerns about it. I had several things to pick up while there, so when I arrived, I decided to just meander around the massive store filled with all-things outdoors. Having owned and operated a hiking and backpacking shop years ago, I still find great joy in exploring all the latest and greatest gadgets and gizmos that were not yet in existence when I was in the industry. It never ceases to amaze me how much better, lighter, and more expensive gear has become.

All of a sudden, I inadvertently found myself in the discounted used gear section of the store. Needing to have 100% confidence in my backpacking gear- after all, I depend on this stuff to keep me safe and alive; I rarely buy used gear… clothing, yes, but not anything as significant as boots. I need every single minute of its life for my own needs, so this was a first for me. I looked around, and lo and behold, there was the EXACT pair of boots I was coming to try on, sitting there on the shelf waiting for me. The miracle? They were the only pair of shoes in my weird, often hard-to-find size, 10.5!

I read the tag, stating that they had only been worn twice, and after a thorough inspection, agreed that they had no signs of wear whatsoever. I was genuinely stunned. I quickly tried them on (of course, with the exact socks and liners that I would wear with them), and they fit like a glove. There was no doubt these were my new boots, serendipitously placed in my path at the perfect moment.  I didn’t even go up to the shoe department to look at any others.

Boot-buying used to be such a struggle and filled me with consternation and worry. Once upon a time, I knew I wouldn’t know just how well or poorly they fit until I was a day or two into a backpacking trip. Not anymore! I truly felt guided to these boots. And after my first couple of stretches on the Appalachian Trail this year, they do, in fact, fit perfectly.

When I need something, I know it will be provided for me in a synchronous, magical way. All I have to do is ask.

xoxCollin