Happily we find ourselves getting into a rhythm out here. We’re very comfortable walking, and the climbs are coming a bit easier. Our appetites are off a tad, but we heard that is expected when just starting out. The weather has been absolutely phenomenal and we feel very lucky for that. However, we hear tomorrow that may change with rain & storms on the way.

The “social life” of the trail was something X was really looking forward to, and it has not disappointed. We continue to meet thru-hikers new to us, each with a story of what has brought them to the Trail. Old, young, and in-between; men, women; singles, couples; folks from abroad, folks from across the USA…but the one thing most of us have in common: we are trying to get to Maine.

Another Trail Magic experience for the Troverts happened today when we came upon Tater (GA>ME 2000 and local to the area) sitting on a big log in Addis Gap (which is to say a long way from any road) with his grandson Cody, their black Lab, Springer, AND cans of iced cold Pepsi for the taking in his backpack! We met this same day-hiking trio the day before at the Blue Mountain Shelter where we all had stopped for a break. Today they were bringing us Trail Magic. X asked Cody if bringing the Trail Magic was his idea and he said, “Yes!” X told him he was her new best friend. Thanks so much to Tater, Cody & Springer. It was great meeting & chatting with you.

Our Base Camp Manager (BCM), Ashley Berry, is a special young woman. Months ago when she volunteered for this project, we’re pretty sure she didn’t know what she was getting herself into, but she is the reason we are able to keep in touch with you. We send her text copy and pictures which she uploads to TrailJournals.com. Our deepest thanks goes to Ashley for taking on the heavy lifting back on the home front.

-N