Date: 2004-04-03
To: Bland, Va
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: overcast clouds

Hi all! Unfortunately Pacha and Bacchus were unable to create a journal entry during this stop. These two guys were too busy eating, bathing, eating, visiting, eating, doing laundry and did I mention eating? We wondered why they chose to dine at a Chinese Buffet when given the option to consume any possible cuisine they so desired. After witnessing the third trip to the buffet we wondered no more! The only competition Pacha and Bacchus faced during dinner was Tuckleberry Finn, their thru-hiking bud from Maryland, whom we adopted for the 18 hour period. If nothing else, hiking makes you hungry!Upon arrival in Bland, Pacha and Bacchus were awaited by a surprise pick up from the lovely duet, Courtney and Afton. The weather was still cold when we all met up and headed for the Ramada, Wytheville. With two rooms it took about 30 seconds for both showers to be running full steam! One whiff and you¢d completely understand why. The lifestyle appears to agree with both our hikers, plus Tuckleberry, although we really have no basis for this assumption except his current appearance. Our guys look really good with their tanned faces, beards and the most hair Pacha¢s had on his head in years! We understand Tuckleberry shaves at every town. Obviously, our guys do not, as noted by pic¢s. Tuckleberry, also, seems to be the AT culinary answer to MacGyver. A far cry from Mac & Cheese and Ramen Noodles. He professes a happy stomach equals a happy hiker!   So basically, Saturday night consisted of showers, dinner, catching up, drying out, a few brews and the luxury of sleep under covers, on pillows and mattresses.Sunday morning, with a late check-out, allowed time for breakfast, more eating at Cracker Barrel, shopping at the local Wal Mart and loading up and repacking. Upon arrival at the exit/entry point, outside of Bland, it was snowing sideways and cold, cold, cold! The guys sorted and repacked all their dried out gear, supplies transported by the base camp, and newly purchased provisions from Wal Mart. Our guys worked on powdered milk, cereal, ingredients for Mexican night, ala Bacchus, and other AT expected dining treasures. While Tuckleberry Finn, a.k.a Culinary MacGyver, worked on packing and repacking his fresh peppers, his Land O Lakes butter, his couscous and his fresh garlic! My kind of hiking going on here!!We bid these fellows a fond farewell with pictures, hugs and kisses. They forged ahead, through the wind and snow, with smiles on their faces! Heading out of Bland, the guys happily came upon the wonder of Trail Magic, left for pleasure by Stanimal. (Check out pic¢s). Stanimal, you are a hero!! I think the guys were already frozen when they came upon your stash. You really warmed up those smiles.All in all, they looked great! Pacha and Bacchus, (for crying out loud, it's hard not to say MICHAEL & CARLOS), and Tucker seemed happy and content. They are all healthy, happy, slim and trim. These guys are so wonderful, committed and peaceful. The tight knit base camp; Dad & Alissa, Mom & Steve, Aubrey & Adam, PapPap & Gloria, Courtney, Molly & Mike and all family and honorary members can¢t wait to cross paths with these guys again! May the sun always be on your face, the wind at your back and your peacefulness continue to grow in your hearts and minds. Good Luck! You will remain in our thoughts and prayers!                                                                                                                                                            Alissa