Date: 2008-04-05
From: Woods Hole Shelter

To: Walasi-Yi Center at Neels Gap.
Miles today: 4.8
Weather: moderate rain

Had a fairly good sleep, however my right knee is now swollen and painful.There is no let up in the weather. It is cold and rainy and a looming storm is about to bust loose. The severity of the weather deemed it necessary to take the alternate blazed Freeman Trail to keep from being exposed to the lightning on Blood Mountain. This is the highest Mountain in Georgia on the AT. Here in Cherokee mythology, lived the "Nunnehi" or "Immortals,the people who live anywhere". They were peaceful and helped lost wanders find their way. At some point before the White man settled, they fought a disasterous bloody battle with the Creek Tribe. Many died. This took place in Slaughter Gap between Slaughter and Blood Mountain. Throughout these woods there are spirits. Many times throughout the day, you get that sense of feeling and/or knowing of their presence So cool!The woods were very quiet. There was no foliage yet on the trees. The clouds cast a ghost like gray all around. The rain had many waterfalls flowing and the rocks were like artistic sculptures. Just beautiful beyond description.I soon arrived to the Mountain Crossings at the Walasi-Yi center in Neels Gap. The trail actually runs right through the building comprised of an outfitter and hostel. I and many others would be stopping here for the night. A paradise in a sense, as it is the first contact of civilization since the beginning. The weather has been nasty so being able to have a hot shower, clean clothes, hot food and a somewhat comfortable bunk for the night made this a welcome stop.Much to my surprise, was a ladies hiking group called the "Trail Dames". They had a hiker feed set up under tents with BBQ burgers & dogs, drinks and snacks. All You Can Eat (AYCE). Unbelieveable. I tried to give them money but they wouldn't take it. They were there for me/us, all who were hiking. I kept going back all day. These ladies were trail angels of the highest order and never left a hiker unfed.I was able to make a couple calls to Kim & my daughter. I was reminded of how my "little boy excitement" could be detected over the phone? There were others who needed to use this broken pay phone as well, so no more calls.I spent the rest of the day doing laundry, resupplying and meeting others. I just couldn't help but be amazed how so many people from varied walks of life were here answering the same "call". It felt good to be around so many "like minded" people. I have always backpacked alone. I had always preferred the solitude and solo experience. This is the first time I have ever had a "communal" like experience with other backpackers. In previous years I might pass some going the other way, but never met up with any at the end of the day or hiked together. This was truly different. I realized we were souls that were brought together. I am happy to be a part of this culture. I feel at home as if I have always belonged. I need this, that's why I am here. I can try to explain but others at home could never truly understand?Today I met Freckles Mom & Dad. (Mark & Sandra). More trail Angels, can you believe this? They drove down from North Carolina and brought everyone Pizza and beer as well. Thank you both so much! I met "Trillium" again in the parking lot, she was saying goodbye? We had briefly met a few days earlier at Hawk Mountain Shelter. She was only hiking for a short while and was now leaving to return home to Michigan. She had such enthusiam and a real yearning to be here on the AT, I was actually sad that she was having to leave what meant so much to her? Little more than strangers, we gave each other a hug, but afterward we parted as friends. I will always remember her and hope that she gets her opportunity to do her thru-hike.I am just amazed about all of this? It is overwhelming at how much joy I am actually feeling? Especially, when I think of how dead I had become before this journey had begun.I know beyond all doubt that this is where I am suppose to be. I am reclaiming my life. What ever lies ahead, I am smiling and will face it head on.I can feel the change happening inside me. AWESOME!