Date: 2016-04-26
From: moreland gap shelter

To: US 321, Hampton, TN
Miles today: 15.3
Weather: scattered clouds

Today is Monday, day 32. I covered 15.3 miles today and I am currently at mile marker 426.8.As I was falling asleep last night I heard a loud crash.. Of a branch. I thought for a few and then had an awful thought of::: oh no, a bear has reached my food bag and is now having all of my food! So I got out of my tent, headlight in hand and walked over to the area of my food bag. Now, I have no idea what I would have done if, in fact, a bear was enjoying my food. But, I discover my bag still hanging in the tree .. All good! I woke around 6:30...did my morning chores and was walking by 7:30. A hiker, who arrived late in the evening, Kelsie (28 years old and has already walked the PCT), from Seattle left the camping area shortly before me. The three guys were having breakfast as we said our... See you down the trail. This is the first hiking day that I have seen the same hiker over and over. Kelsie and I kept stopping in the same area.. Not walking together but stopping at the same springs for water. In one of our conversations we decided we were both heading to the same Hostel and we would catch a ride (3 miles from trail head to hostel) together. The hike was beautiful. Be sure to click on additional photos as I have added several. The Laurel Falls area was stunning. Oh, before I forget... I did walk through a controlled burn area of the forest. I added those pics as well. The hike was not too difficult until I got to the falls area and beyond. There were so many large rocks, steps, uneven terrain .. That I noticed my feet were starting to have hot spots. That and I am in need of a new pair of shoes... Which Chrissy has mailed to my next stop. Damascus, VA. At mile 10 I was at 1900 feet and looked at the map only to discover.. I needed to climb to 3950 in two miles. So, I put my head down and marched up the mountain knowing I had to cover these miles today to set myself up for the rest of the week. Chrissy is meeting me in Damascus on Thursday .. Late afternoon. Oh, and Sammi too. I am very excited to see her. I'll take two zero days with her and then do one day of hiking with her. I have 41.5 miles to cover before seeing her. I am currently at the Braemar Castle Hostel in Hampton, TN. It is a really cool hostel and there is a small grocery/hardware store across the street. I picked up my food for 2.5 days and of course... A red Barron pizza to cook for supper. Oh my.. When I see Chrissy we are NOT having pizza. I really appreciate all of the kind words people have posted on my journal. I love reading your questions, thoughts, concerns , etc.   I am amazed at how may people are interested in this journey. I keep telling myself that no matter how far I get... I have already gained so much insight and reminders as to what is really important in life. And it all boils down to the simple things. But most importantly our loved ones.... Family, friends... Hug them all and don't be afraid to tell them how important they are to you. Even if you meet a stranger... Take the time to ask them how they are doing... Be kind!!   Trotter if you are reading this... You will most likely make it to Damascus while I am there with Chrissy. Call me so we can connect.