Date: 2003-07-12
From: Sherman, CT

To: Stewart Hollow Brook Lean-to
Miles today: 18.2

What a day! It was probably one of my worst days. Well, I had some of my worst moments anyway. The day started out fine enough. I showered then went downstairs. Gretchen and Brian were both up, and soon Gretchen had waffles in front of our faces. They were delicious! I was in no hurry to leave, as it's always difficult to leave a house, especially when it has such gracious hosts as Gretchen and Brian were.Hotdog and I slowly gathered our belongings and packed our packs. Gretchen gave us each some fruit leather and cookies to take on the trail. Once again, both are wonderful! A little before 11, the four of us piled into their car and headed for the trail. At the parking lot, we said our goodbyes, took some final pictures, then Hotdog and I headed north, once again. Though it was difficult to leave the relaxation of the house, I was ready to continue on. There will be plenty of time to rest after the adventure is complete.We had some great views today, as it was mostly sunny, with a pretty steady breeze. It's a good thing it wasn't too hot today, because I was sucking wind! I think these "mountains" we've been climbing in New York and Connecticut are getting us back in shape for the "real" mountains ahead. I certainly hope so anyway. That's what I keep telling myself. I think the gentler grades, less frequent climbs, and smaller mountains has allowed me to get softer, and the terrain of late will toughen me up again. Either that or break me!I've had some pains lately, in my left foot, and my right knee. I keep thinking they'll just go away, especially the knee ache. I'm hoping the muscles around it will get into shape and help me out. At a particular point on the trail today, just north of St. John's Ledge (which offered terrific views!), I was getting angry with the trail maintainers. I knew there would be rock steps going down the mountain, but what I found... well... it ticked me off, and I voiced my opinion with some choice words for all to hear. Luckily, only Hotdog was around. This section was a royal pain in my behind. The 'steps' were HUGE--not something easily conquered by a short- or even average-legged person. I had to rely on my poles to soften my large steps down onto the step below. The section was steep, making me well aware that I could easily fall face-first down the mountain. That made my near-turtle pace slow even more. Toss in the fact that my knee was already sore, and I was one ! unhappy hiker for a while.I mellowed considerably once I relaxed at this shelter for a bit. I was just tired and aching, and therefore cranky. I'm over it now. Mostly. I know I need to rest well tonight, and start tomorrow anew. It'll be a brand new day, with it's own, unique rewards and challenges. It should be pretty easy to sleep in, since Hotdog and I are, surprisingly, the only two here tonight.On a good note, we crossed the 2/3 complete point today, mileage-wise. It's hard to believe I've come this far. What an adventure it's been! I'll take the bad with the good, because so far, the good far, far outweighs the bad.I met thruhikers Walkabout and The Fox today. I have a feeling I won't see Fox again, because he is ahead of us tonight and I think he hikes farther in a day than us. Walkabout was going to camp about 7 miles south of this shelter, so I may see him tomorrow. Either way, it is cool to meet new people, especially thruhikers! Maybe tomorrow, I'll meet more.