morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2005-04-05
From: Newfound Gap

To: Tri-Corner Knob Shelter
Miles today: 15.6
Weather: overcast clouds

TuesdayMr. L Jones gave me another hiking stick. My sister drove me to Gatlinburg. Newfound Gap. We gassed and coffee. It was a pleasure drive but long. Very long day. Saw Charlie¢s Bunion again. Fantastic views. Had salad/butter sandwich. Met new hikers Raz, Rodeo, Mich (?). Stayed at Tri-corner Knob Shelter with Amanda & Cosby Kids. It was still cold. The shelter has a plastic cover to keep out the cold. Last one to bed. Did not sleep well. Transcriber Note: Total mileage is 219.4 at Tri-Corner Knob Shelter.
Date: 2005-04-06
From: Tri-Corner Knob Shelter

To: Standing Bear Hostel
Miles today: 18.5
Weather: overcast clouds

WednesdayWoke up and got started with my day. Had four little hot dogs for breakfast. A very slow day. My water filter is not working correctly. My goal was to get out of the Smokies today! It was good to see. I called Ronnie & Tina from the Greenville Hiking Club. When I got to Davenport Gap I was tired and frustrated. I saw R & T at Interstate 40. I decided to go to Standing Bear Hostel. A very cozy place. The bed was made from the 1800s. The Kitchen (?) style of Standing Bear.
Date: 2005-04-07
From: Standing Bear Hostel

To: Roaring For Shelter
Miles today: 18.5
Weather: light rain

ThursdayVery late start at 0945. Wonderful wild flowers on the mountainside. I felt like I was moving in slow motion. I was the last one. It took forever to get to Max Patch, a very popular spot on the A.T. Very cold evening. Finally met up with another at Max Patch. New Roaring Fork Shelter not ready. Hiked another 3.9 miles starting at 0700. It got (crayon?) BLACK. I was scared, fearing the unknown. It had to be at least 0930. Everyone was in there. I got water from Michigan. Plenty of room in the shelter. I STILL CAN¢T BELIEVE I HIKED IN THE DARK! I believe I saw a black male and white female couple (section hiking).
Date: 2005-04-08
From: Roaring For Shelter

To: Hot Springs, NC
Miles today: 15.1
Weather: light rain

FridayA good hike. Started at 0730. It felt good to be in familiar territory. Good weather. Upon entering Hot Springs, contacted Ned for upcoming events (Day Hikes). I felt like I was back at home. Went to the Greene county Bank to get a ride by to Greenville, from a bank teller. The lady said yes. -?- Uma & Dorothy teachers from Greeneville, TN., they were shopping at the outfitters. They were delighted to give me a ride. I got a fish sandwich. -?- my sister.
Date: 2005-04-09
From: Hot Springs, NC

To: Tanyard Gap, NC
Miles today: 6.0

SaturdayHiked 6 miles.Hotsprings NC to Tanyard Gap. Ned, J.C., -?-, Andy. Wonderful hiking weather. Saw a lot of thru-hikers walking down to Hot Springs. I knew a lot of people (thru-hikers). We ate at Smoky Mountain Restaurant. My cousin Faye Fried Fish. (MS walk in Greeneville).
Date: 2005-04-10
From: Tanyard Gap, NC

To: Old Log Cabin Road
Miles today: 10.4

SundayTanyard Gap/Log Cabin Road.Greeneville Hiking Club. Ned J.C., M/L Jones, Velma (Greeneville Sun Paper). Interview/picture. A wonderful hike. (Control -?-).at Allen Gap (T N T O). The best Trail Magic. Homemade soup, bread, sweet tea, cherry pie with ice cream. They hiked the ¢¢99¢. Fal & Hercules. Finished hiking to Old Log Cabin Road. More trail magic offered. However, I took the ride instead to avoid the BADD ASSS DOGG. The Greenville Hiking went to Hot Springs for dinner & picked us up later at Hemlock Hollow Shop.
Date: 2005-04-14
From: Sam's Gap

To: Spivey Gap
Miles today: 13.3
Weather: clear sky

ThursdaySam's Gap I-26 - Spivey Gap 19 W.Greeneville Hiking Club. SID, J.C., NICKI (RUGUEL) SHUTTLE, a wonderful view of the BIG BALD. It had snowed 2 inches or more. This is really fast group. A great day for hiking. Met a lot of thru-hikers. We at at Lynn¢s Restaurant. Ned/Andy came.
Date: 2005-04-15
From: Spivey Gap

To: Indian Grave Gap
Miles today: 20.0

FridayDrove to Erwin, TN. To Hiker Community (Uncle Johnny¢s & called Miss Janet¢s). Met a few thru hikers: ¢Double Healer¢ saved the day. He drove my car twice to each Trail head. From Spivey Gap - Nolichucky River. A beautiful day for hiking. Did not see a soul (11 miles). Two white guys were in a truck saw me driving and yelled ¢BLACK.¢
Date: 2005-04-16
From: Indian Grave Gap

To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

SaturdayZero day to repack and return items to Mountain Blue Sports. Credit of $--.--/Hung out with sister and niece. We went to Tiptons for breakfast. Our cousin Wayne treated us. Today was the Sherronda's Junior/Senior Prom. She looked so pretty and proud.
Date: 2005-04-17
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

SundayZero day. Went to church late. It felt good to be back @ Friendship Baptist Church. However, I was dressed casual. Hiking shoes (CROCS). I started getting ready for the A.T. I fixed Moma Vivian Dinnes (?) a veggie plate. I used Ziploc bags and labeled.
Date: 2005-04-18
From: Indian Grave Gap

To: Creasy Creek Gap
Miles today: 15.0

MondayHiked 15 milesIndian Grave Gap to Greasy Creek Gap (Friendlys). My sister drove me to Erwin. We got gas @ wal-Mart, ate @ McDonald¢s. I was not feeling the A.T. I was nervous and scared. A very long day! 1/2 way I saw about 8 slack packers from Ms. Janet¢s. Later I met Lion King. He is big like a ¢lion.¢ He was @ Cherry Gap Shelter, but gone & the wind. Upon reaching Iron Mtn. Gap TN107/N226 I attempted to get across before any moving cars came, but no luck. I was so scared out in the middle of no where. I was wondering if I would be safer being (Euro-American) or white. Later met up with Lion King. He was taking a break on a pretty green pasture. I didn¢t see no one. Starting with the FUNKY BLUES. At Greasy Creek Gap it was getting DARK. Met up with Lion King. 2 miles to the next shelter R2 Greasy Creek Friendlys Hostel .7 miles. Go downhill on old jeep road, take 1st Left & then right. Much conf . . I attempted to call Beartracks owner. No signal. Said a prayer and the phone worked. He came to meet me. It was already DARK. Very nice place. Saw Homer and Half Way. We all stayed in $7.00 Bunk house. Offered spirits and home cooked. His neighbor HATED EVERYONE. On his fence he had HIKER TRASH SON OF A BITCH.
Date: 2005-04-19
From: Creasy Creek Gap

To: Roan High Knob Shelter
Miles today: 8.3

TuesdayLeaving Greasy Creek was scary. The Friendlys walked me down the road. Starting to think I CAN¢T FINISH THIS HIKE. Before reaching Clyde Smith Shelter I met Popeye (who stayed @ Cherry Gap S). He stated he was the one @ the shelter. He gave me update of people on the Trail. August (Black male) has issues! I took my time. A very HARD day. One of the hardest so far. LITTLE ROCK KNOB. ROAN HIGH BLUFF. ROAN HIGH KNOB SHELTER (6285¢). The highest shelter on the Trail. 7 people (1 other female). 2 were from Hampton Virginia. Lion King is very self center.
Date: 2005-04-20
From: Roan High Knob Shelter

To: Mt Harbour Bed & Breakfast
Miles today: 15.2

WednesdayToday I cried 11 times and I don¢t know why! The bald hikes from Carver¢s Gap, Round & Jane(?). A clear day, but warm. I was very lonely and tired of hiking alone. Had lunch at Overmountain Shelter (the Barn) sleeps 20+. It was used during the Revolutionary War. Walking with ghost & history. HUMP MTN (5584¢, cattle pasture. 6 bulls with large horns on the A.T. My heart and soul were crying tears. Reach out and Touch ONE. It was eye to eye, horn to ear. They appeared to be very old. They just looked at me, as if to say don¢t be scared. Still tired of hiking alone. US19E several acts of vandalism and occasional unfriendly comments yelled. I was concerned being an African-American on the A.T. Apple House Shelter has been BURNED down at least 3 times. It is .5 miles from 19E HWY. (arrived @ 7:00 p.m.) before dark. A major accomplishment. Was warned about the BADD ASSS DOGG. Did not see it, hear it, smelled it. Made it to Mt. Harbour Bed and Breakfast & Hostel. The Hostel was full of MEN. He offered $30.00-$60.00 room. I can¢t afford that in my mind. He must have talked to his wife. Came back and offered me $15.00. It brought tears my my eyes. 19E wasn¢t as BAD after all. The room was a true Bed and Breakfast. Awesome hospitality. I talked to my best friend about my sad day with blues. Had homemade chili, corn bread, cake, 12 sodas, water.
Date: 2005-04-21
From: Mt Harbour Bed & Breakfast

To: Moreland Gap Shelter
Miles today: 17.7

ThursdayHad a wonderful breakfast. Was not feeling the Hike. I could stay another day, but won¢t. I was scared about being on 19E Trail ahead. I saw Trash but you could tell it had been clean. Walking through another cow pasture & dirt road. I hope no one bothers me. I heard a powerful waterfall. Saw 3 men making a church. On this hike water sources are noted contaminated. It was a long hike. Elk River was pretty nice. Control Burning. Saw 2 lady section hikers. I heard gun shots/hunters. I was tired. I made it to Moreland Gap Shelter @ 7:30 before dark. The Rain, and Lightening, Snow. Attempted to Hang my Food Bag several times. No luck. Hanged it any kinda way. I was glad to be in a shelter.
Date: 2005-04-22
From: Moreland Gap Shelter

To: Kincora Hiker's Hostel
Miles today: 6.1

FridayMoreland Gap - Kincora Hiker¢s HostelWas awakened by HELL BOY. He came by @ 0630. I got up @ 0630 on the Trail by 0730. I was tired and cranky, did not sleep well. It was a pretty view. Spring & green. A nice Pond w/Frogs. Dennis Cove Rd. Laurel Fork Trail Head. (Hiked Laurel Fork Trail several times). walked 0.2 miles to KINCORA Hiker¢s Hostel. (Voted the Best Hostel on the Trail). BOB, PEOPLES the owner has true European skin and dark black eyes. His personality is the BEST. Since I missed breakfast, I cooked some hot soup, touteulle(?) pasta. I updated my THRU HIKER'S HANDBOOK (regarding how many the shelter sleeps, privy). Met Lucky Dog, JukeBox, Hell Boy, Jax zappy, Double Header. Went to Food City, Elizabethon, TN, attempted to write in my journal).
Date: 2005-04-23
From: Kincora Hiker's Hostel

To: US 321
Miles today: 8.9

SaturdayMy sister is coming to visit me today. LAUREL FORK--US32, Hampton TN. Have several times with Greenville Hiking. It was foggy, windy, ice rain, slack pack, almost slipped on my back. Hypertensioned it (to prevent my fall). I¢m glad I¢ve been hiking before. WATAUGA LIKE area, POND FLATS MTN. Was nice and easy. I thought I heard coyotes / are wild dogs. I had to wear my gloves. My hands were frozen. After arriving @ 321 I attempted to hitch a ride. A guy named Mitch wasn¢t going my way, but he gave me a ride anyway. Went to McDonalds & met my sister. It was good to see her. We talked @ McDonalds (had double cheese burger, apple pies). Bob is the Trail coordinator for Eastman Hiking club. Went to tour Laurel Fork Campground & Hostel. The owner was from Wisconsin. A very nice tour. We went to Kincora Hostel, gave her a tour of the place, and trail names. I found vaseline in the Hiker Box. After she left I took a long nap, woke up, took shower and finished catching up my journal. I went to bed @ 11:00 p.m.
Date: 2005-04-24
To: View Entry
Miles today: 0.0

SundayZero day because of SNOW, about 1 inch of snow, and still snowing. I decided to take a zero. It was 22 degrees (very cold). I washed dishes 2. I went to Food City, more Ice Cream. Cozy atmosphere, friendly. B. Money baked a cake for Bob Peoples. AT white Blazes. There were at least 20 people @ the Hostel. Everyone was extremely friendly & polite -- Bob enjoys sharing his knowledge & expertise regarding the Trail. I could stay there for a while. I enjoy talking to the different, diverse group of hikers. Did some reading and went to bed.
Date: 2005-04-25
From: US 321

To: Iron Mtn Shelter
Miles today: 15.4

MondayR321/Iron Gap SOverall it was an easy hike. The Watauga Lake was beautiful from the Trail, as well as the Dam Area. Hiked alone today. Saw 6 section hikers today. It was nice hiking along the Ridge viewing the Lake and Snow Capped Mountains. My pack is still too Heavy. Freedom Ma--?--, K.C. & Dad @ the shelter.
Date: 2005-04-26
To: Damascus, VA
Miles today: 25.9
Weather: overcast clouds

Tuesday26 milesIron Mtn Shelter - Damascus, VA.Made it to Virginia my 4th State @ 7:00 p.m. Overall an easy, but long day. The elevation is very low. One can look back and see flat mountains. The weather is good hiking, but rain is on the way. I could still see Watauga Lake from the low cut Mts. Upon arriving to Damascus, VA. It brought back fond memories (My 1st time riding the VA Creeper Trail, on a K-Mart brand Bike & Towel (double on the seat for cushion feel). Damascus is known as the Friendliest Hiker town on the Trail. I stayed @ THE PLACE, run by the Damascus United Methodist Church. $4.00 donation. A huge house. I met a Biker riding to the state of Iowa. Ate @ Sicily¢s Pizza. Had free pizza (left over from another thru-hiker). After doing 26 miles my body was hurting. I got the couch cushions to put on the wooden surface
Date: 2005-04-27
From: Damascus, VA

To: Mt Rogers Hostel
Miles today: 0.0

WednesdayZero day (did not plan on it). Had errands to complete. Ran into RED HAT. We had breakfast & played catch up. It was good to see her. We had breakfast @ Dairy King. I went back and took a long nap from 11-2:30. (Sleepy head). Completed laundry. Double Healer Birthday. Hikers ate @ a Mexican Restaurant Boja¢s. Walked back to Dairy King for custard ice cream. I stayed @ Mt. Rogers Hostel w/Red Hat. Because she is getting off the Trail for good (family & Health issue).
Date: 2005-04-28
From: Mt Rogers Hostel

To: US 58
Miles today: 16.9

ThursdayWoke up @ 0500. Thinking of a plan to slack pack. Walked w/section @ 0545 regarding a map, attempted to get stamps. I went to Cowboys for breakfast. I took 3 Hitches to get to R58. It was fun Hitching. I was feeling good. I started my Hike, met Yappy. Dead animal, eagle foot, Lucky Dog, M(?).... You could see snow on the peaks. Looked Back later the snow had melted. I was feeling good. I got off the Trail @5:50. I made it to the Free Homemade lasagna dinner. The camaraderie of the Hiker Community is an awesome experience. I met AUGUST the other African America HIKER. A very nice person. I went to Bed @ 8:40.
Date: 2005-04-29
From: us 58

To: Thomas Knob Shelter
Miles today: 20.6
Weather: light rain

Friday0730 Had breakfast @ Dairy King. It was good. Met John Cato (a black man) who lives in Damascus. The only Black family left. He stated during segregation he bused to Bristol, VA for school. Went to the Post office (twice). ? /w 80% chance of Rain. I packed my bag. On my way to the Trail I saw skylark/Nu-B. Stopped by the place. On the bridge in Damascus I ran into August (the other African American HIKER). He appears to be very knowledgeable about the A.T. He very attractive/strong. We talked about the Trail and the people. He cleaned the Hostel, because it needed it. I took his picture (just for a witness). I made a sign 58E to Hitch to 58 summit cut. It took over an hour. A old man w/white Old truck picked me up. His son is a Park Ranger. He knew a lot about the Trail. When I got to the Trail head I was concerned about running out of Day light. The terrain w/Mt. Rogers is great. Balds, Raks(?), Posies, Forests & Meadows. I made it to the shelter BEFORE DARK!! Cooked Hot soup. Um Um good. The shelter & privy is the Best in VA.
Date: 2005-04-30
From: Thomas Knob Shelter

To: Troutdale, VA
Miles today: 21.2

SaturdayHiked 24 miles Thomas Knob Shelter - Troutdale, VAA long day. Mt Rogers Park and Grayson Highlands Park.On the trail by 0800, The terrain is different, Rock, Meadows (WILD PONIES), dwarf size, Very friendly. (One can rattle paper here they come). I took pictures. The ponies were playing/chasing each other. Hiked alone. Got water @ Wise shelter. The coolest new Shelter Hurricane. I made it to Trail head @ 8:00 p.m. No luck w/Hitch. I hiked in the dark on VA15. You know I cried, cried, cried, and prayed. Arrived @ the church @ 9:30. I didn¢t know what to feel! Cooked hot food, Hot Shower & washed by clothes. The church Hostel is great. I went to bed after 11:15 p.m. View of the ponies/Hone? going the rest.
Date: 2005-05-01
From: Troutdale, VA

To: Partnership
Miles today: 14.5
Weather: scattered clouds

SundayTroutvale, VA to Partnership P/H sandwich 4 breakfast. Hiked 14.2 miles (6 hours). Hiked w/Chairman(?) & Northman (a good/hard pace). It was good to have company. Partnership shelter had shower, restroom, sink, and you can order PIZZA. Um um um. Got in the shelter @ 3:45. Took a nap. I fell today (tripped over my shoe strings). We ordered pizza/made smores. Shelter was full.
Date: 2005-05-02
From: Partnership

To: Davis Path Shelter
Miles today: 13.3

MondayHiked 14.3Leaving Partnership was hard to leave @0900. It took me forever. Met Milkman along the way after passing the left shelter. Got pop in my step. Settlers Living History Museum. I wish they were open. I signed the register. I made it to Atkins, VA I-8/Dairy Queen, Relax. Held all on the A.T. Went to get my mail. Ate at Dairy Queen. Um um good. I attempted to get a Hitch w/two Black men, but were too busy w/work, but wanted to ask me a million questions. My people. My Hitch was easy to the Post office. Two old men to/from men. All very nice. One picked up my pack, and stated it was too heavy.
Date: 2005-05-03
From: Davis Path Shelter

To: Chestnut Knob Shelter
Miles today: 20.2
Weather: scattered clouds

TuesdayFrom Davis Path Shelter to Chestnut Knob Shelter.Very early start 0730. Busy day. Very cold for the 1st 3rd mile. I fell very HARD, face down. No pain. No gain. Cow pastures, meadows, awesome views. I¢m starting to smell myself. The Mts. are flat topped. Ready for Burkes Garden. Wonderful views.
Date: 2005-05-04
From: Chestnut Knob Shelter

To: Laurel Creek Campground
Miles today: 14.6
Weather: scattered clouds

WednesdayVery long day. Sleeping under the stars. No tent. No ? the other shelter. So I went to the Laurel Creek Campground. 9 total @ the Campsite. I slept by the fire. I got concerned about skunks, rats, bears, so I got my whistle/mace out.
Date: 2005-05-05
From: Laurel Creek Campground

To: Jenny Knob Shelter
Miles today: 19.0
Weather: broken clouds

ThursdayI made it through the night. Thank U mother nature for not allowing it to rain. I was up/out @ 0730. Got to Bland @ 1030. A wonderful breakfast. Took a bird bath @ the gas station. It is very cold outside. After touring the town, got a hitch back up to the Trail head. A dairy farmer owner (They usually make over $150,000 year). Met up w/Jax. He stated the Church breakfast was the bomb(?). After I started walking I got warmer. I saw Nimblefoot setting up his hammock. He stated his feet were hurting.
Date: 2005-05-06
From: Bland, VA

To: Wood's Hole Shelter
Miles today: 20.4
Weather: scattered clouds

FridayI woke up snoring. It was so bright and sunny outside. It felt later, only 0700. Myself, Chubby/Knuckles, Jax again...another great day for hiking. Saw quite a bit of littler/noise from the Trail. Made it to Trent¢s store to refuel. Low terrain/elevation. Met Deep Sea & Pacer (6 pair of hiking shoes not working out). Seemed 2 be not 2 happy. Also New Hemisphere(?) she has a small dog (Pomeranian). My opinion (DOG ABUSE). My Boot (Left is busting @ the seams). I well get another pair next week. I started hiking w/o my Trekking poles because of my right wrist. I was hoping and praying that I would make it to Woods Hole Hostel (known as the little Front Yard of Heaven...). It was built in 1880 an old Farm House/barn.
Date: 2005-05-07
From: Wood's Hole Shelter

To: Pearisburg, VA
Miles today: 10.0
Weather: clear sky

SaturdayI got a very late start. It was hard to leave Wood¢s Hole. Views from top were great. The New River/Pearisburg, VA. Hiked thru several rock gardens and large boulders. I didn¢t see too many people. Only two section hikers. Upon arriving to Pearisburg, VA the Trail came thru houses to a trailer park. I hiked to 460 @ The New River. I checked out the Traffic (moving fast). I saw a jeep parked. Come to find out, it was Wild Hare (Trail Magic). She offered me a ride. Very happy to get a ride. She took me to the Hostel, Wal-Mart, laundry, Dairy Queen, and a tour of Town. She gave us hikers (6) Back massage (the best Trail Magic Ever). WILD HARE was a genuine nice person. I¢m glad I had the chance to meet her.
Date: 2005-05-08
From: Pearisburg, VA

To: Pine Swamp Shelter
Miles today: 19.6
Weather: clear sky

5/8/05Sunday0500 up getting ready for my shuttle 2 (635) with WILD HARE. She is such a nice person. At 1st we got turned around, but later we got on track. She was so patient after getting on the Trail. I reached pine swamp shelter. Rhino and Ranja (Dog) were there, also C biscuit, Turtle, Spencer, & other section Hikers. A very nice shelter with a built in fireplace. 2 miles later came across the Allegheny Trail (300 miles from West Virginia to Pennsylvania). I was extremely tired. I was sleep Hiking. I had no energy. The weather was great. Bright and sunny. It was Mother¢s Day. I called all my special Friends. I finally made it back to Pearisburg. Went to the Wade Mart for dinner. A gentleman and two dogs gave me a ride to the Hostel. Thank you. Thank you. His name was Da? Eagle Scout. He got a tour of the place. I finally got to see AUGUST again. I can tell he enjoyed talking to people. It was good to see him again.
Date: 2005-05-09
From: VA 635

To: War Spur Shelter
Miles today: 12.7
Weather: clear sky

MondayStill @ the Hostel in Pearisburg, VA. I finally woke up @ 0800. I heard other Hikers up earlier than that. I ate leftover livers, cheese bread, apple pieces, and orange juice. I completed a few business calls. Packed my pack. It is a bright sunny day. While walking down the street, Bob, the one who runs the Hostel offered to take me to the post office and dropped me off @ Wal-Mart. Picked up a few personal items. The greeter stated I couldn¢t take my backpack in. I had lunch @ Wendy¢s. I was concerned about getting a Hitch all the way out 635. I felt it may be a bit difficult. A white man in a white Truck picked me up. He didn¢t hold much conversation (unusual). I told him he can get me a ride to 460/635. Before getting out of the Truck, He asked if I wanted to work for some extra cash before getting on Trail. He said the work would be SEX. I politely said NO THANK YOU. GOT MY PACK AND GOT OUT OF THE TRUCK.
Date: 2005-05-11
From: Niday

To: Greeneville, TN (VA 624)
Miles today: 16.6

Wednesday.Red Tent. I got a late start. Another bright Day and Sunny. It was very humid. The Hike started w/many creek Crossing. Not feeling well today, but I got to keep on pushin on. I was so tired. My energy level is very low. I need more protein. Hemlock Point had an awesome view. DRAGON¢S TOOTH was very ROCKY and dangerous. I believe the Trail Maintainers wanted to know. all the thru Hikers with 50 lbs. on their backs can make it or not. It¢s just a test. I made it to the store. Hitched a ride by a white male ASSHOLE PRICK! My next Hitch was offered by FRED ¢LEFTFIELDER¢ who Hiked the A.T. LAST year from GA - VT. He had on AT gear, and so did I. He drove me to the next Hiker town Daleville, VA. He drove me to the Trail Head not far from the I-81. I called the Greyhound bus to see how much a ticket would be. $49.00 (0400-1000). May need to get a Motel Room. It is getting late and plus I¢m very tired. I was hoping to meet a female Trucker. A Black male Trucker started talking to me. He offered me a ride to I-26 (28 miles from my Hometown). The Truck ride went well. We Talked the entire Trip. He talked about his children, God, Job, and living in Maryland. His name was Mr. Lewis. I got to Johnson City, TN @ 0100. I could not think of anyone who would come to get me. My sister was working. I went to my friends (H.C.) place of employment and waited 4 him to get off of work @ 0700. I slept in his car. We had breakfast @ Sonics. It felt good to be in Greeneville, TN. When I got to my Grandmother¢s house, I took a Hot Bath & went to bed.