Date: 2003-10-09
From: Duncannon, PA

To: Luray, VA
Miles today: 0.0

Sorry for not getting to this sooner, it's been a busy couple of weeks. Here's the story:9/28 Slackpacked from Boiling Springs back to Duncannon. NOBO for a day. Of course we were late, so more night hiking. Thanks to Trail Angel Mary for the late supper. You went above and beyond the call of duty and we certainly appreciated it. Thanks also to Sedentary Bob, Bag O'Tricks, and Bust Ace.9/29 Hiked from BS to Ironmasters Hostel. Big day today for several reasons: 1)I forgot that I had a maildrop back at Boiling Springs. Had to hitch back to town, pick up my mail, then get back on the trail. Total time lost = 1.5 hours. 2) Reached the 1/2 way point on the AT, both the sign and the real point. Could not take the half gallon challenge since the store wasn't open. 3) Watched 'Harold and Maude', possibly Roamin's favorite movie. Especially liked the part where Harold chopped his hand off.9/30 More hiking, got pizza at US 30 in southern PA. Watched Jerry Springer at the pizzeria. Hiking not so bad, less blowdowns and less rocks. Really noticed trees changing color today. This was the night that Fatcat, Grommie, and Poncho hiked into Rocky Mtn shelter at 0300 in the rain.10/1 Rain kept us in the shelter until 1000. Crossed into Maryland at the Pen-Mar park, got submarine sandwiches delivered and ate in the shelter. The New Zealand lady nearly burned the shelter down with Roamin's stove. Weather getting colder.10/2 Zig-zag did a power 35 mile hike to Harper's Ferry today. Roamin and I hiked to Rocky Run shelter. Met Huggy Bear on the trail, the only AT hairdresser I've ever seen. Reached Washington's Monument (the milk bottle one, not the tall one) where Roamin finished his AT hike! A big moment. Congratulations, Roamin. A cold day, I've had a sore throat for several days now.10/3 In to Harper's Ferry AYH on the coldest morning so far (36F). While eating lunch at a local restaurant, Roamin's parents showed up (serendipity). Everyone else finally got to the hostel: Fatcat, Grommie, Poncho, Zig-Zag, D-Bone, Squirrel Master. A good evening. No Internet, unfortunately. Larry cooked us the most excellent ribs I think I've ever eaten.10/4 Decided to zero since I was feeling crappy. Did hike to the ATC office where I got my picture and number (#55). Stopped at the outfitters for some winter clothes, and Waldi's (yes, I converted). Roamin has left, heading back to RI and home. Good luck, dude. I'll keep in touch to monitor your reentry into 'real life.'10/5 Hiked to Blackburn Trail Center, an excellent place. They even served supper there! By myself today, the first time since VT. PATC crews were out clearing blowdowns, of which there were plenty. Thanks for the volunteer effort from everyone, the trail wouldn't exist without it. GQ and Lumberjack came in during supper. Fatcat, Grommie, and Pancho apparently zeroed in HF.10/6 Solo hiking through the Roller Coaster. Entered VA, and was stunned to see 535 miles until TN. I can feel the Virginia Blues already setting in.10/7 Hiked to Denton shelter. Met Mad Mountain Mama and Raven Maineiac there and had a good time. Noticed poison ivy on my face, I must have blown my nose with a poison ivy leaf. I don't recommend this to anyone.10/8 Entered the Shenandoah National Park today, on a mostly uphill climb. Stopped at the VA 4-H center for soda, water, and bathroom. Had to inspect my face for damage, it's not pretty. Save your comments please. Slept by myself at Gravel Springs Hut, the first time since VT. No racoon or bear problems. Did see two deer up close, they don't seem scared of humans.10/9 In to Luray for poison ivy relief, Internet, and resupply. I'll head out tomorrow, bound for Waynesboro.To all who have my mail drop list, be aware that I am 5-6 days ahead of schedule. Depending on how much I hike, that number could increase.To Fatcat and Grommie, I'll be in Wayneboro Monday and Tuesday, at either the Comfort Inn or the Exxon Motel. I'll leave messages in the registers.