Date: 2010-07-19
To: White House Landing
Miles today: 5.8

Mon. White's Ferry Landing (1). Hostel. 5.8 miReport. The Antlers Campsite became quite popular as the evening progressed and was almost filled by dark. I was disappointed to discover that one of the "shrines" of the AT was closed, Fort Relief. This was a privy to really admire: glass windows, curtains, washstand and even a big glass door knob. It was locked closed and replaced by a new, very large two seat (pilot - co-pilot) version. I took some sunset photos, but these were only fair. Some of the late arrivals included two parent/child couples. I had built a fire earlier in the afternoon and had it almost burned down when they decided to build it up, bigtime, placing a 12 inch log into the fire. I was surprised to discover I had 4 AT&T cell bars and made a couple of calls and fwd'ed my journal entries to Miss P&B for posting. Unfotunately, my battery power was on the low side.I went to bed at dark to the humming sounds of a squadron of mosquitoes. I eventually went to sleep and slept generally well.I was up at 0400 to get some sunrise photos. I had taken some great shots here last year and had some good ones this am. I was surprised to discover "no cell service" this am after having 4 bars last nite. I was also able to treat myself to a hot breakfast (oatmeal and coffee) and was looking for an early start. However, I could not find my filled SD memeory cards in their designated storage location and ended up taking everything out of my pack, opening up my tent and sleeping bag, then taking all my gear out piece by piece before I finally found them. I then started hiking and it was still very early. I kind of enjoyed this early start. During this morning's hike, I'm sure I noticed the spot where I fell and broke my ribs last year. I considered "watering" the area but didn't so as not to pollute the watershed. I came to the Potaywadjo Lean To and stopped for a food break and water at one of the best springs on the AT. While here it seemed like old home week I first saw Lucky at the spring and then GPS, and later Lil Buddha. GPS gave me some aqua mira to treat the spring water. We were all going to the White's Ferry Landing for lunch and overnight stay. I learned we needed to be there by 1000 for lunch and we decided to move out. I got placed in the lead ( it's always a good idea in group hiking to have the slowest person in front) and really pressed on. We came to a viewing spot of Mt K and stopped for some photo op. Then back on the charge to WHF. We got to the blue blaze side trail, then down to the beach, blew the air horn and waited for the ferry boat to take us to the hostel. And, then it started to rain. We got set up in the bunkhouse, showered and had lunch: 1lb hamburger, homemade brownie and a pint of Ben & Jerry's. Went back to the bunkhouse for a power nap before dinner and had an outstanding photo op. Baxter, the resident moose was grazing nearby. He is huge and didn't seem to bothered by us taking his photo. It continued to rain most of the afternoon. We then went to main lodge for dinner. The four of us shared 3 pizzas. I'll be taking a zero here tomorrow nte others will be leaving after breakfast and did some food resupply at the hiker store. It's beginning to clear up now and I'll be returning to the bunkhouse. Lil Buddha is trashtalkin about his Scrabble skills. All for todayLife is Great!Sent from my iPhone