Date: 2016-04-05
From: Tellico Gap

To: NOC
Miles today: 8.1
Weather: clear sky

Today is day 12 (Tuesday).   We started the day with our 90 year old shuttle driver, David. Our drive back to the trail head was one hour. That hour was filled with David singing us gospel hymns, discussing theology, the discovery of Pluto, a stalker lady friend from church, etc.... He was all over the board. When Trotter said... David, you are quite the charmer... He said, "why, yes I am." He did not go over 35 mph even when the speed limit was 55... I think he really enjoys having a captive audience.. Google him: David Watters CIA. We started hiking at 9 a.m. Our plan was to hike 8.1 miles ending at The Nantahala Outdoor Center ( NOC)(near Bryson City, NC). It was a beautiful day and we only had two climbs. Sweet!! But, with full packs... It makes things a lot tougher. Both of us came off of the mountain saying... I'm mailing home XYZ to lighten my pack. Both of us weighed our packs and mine was 28.5 , Trotter's was 29. The only issue is... That was with only two days of food. When we get to the Smokey Mountain area we need to carry 7 days worth!! We both mailed home our pocket rockets (stove), cooking pot and anything we have not used. Now all of our meals will be cold. Peanut butter on tortilla bread, tuna fish in packets, beef jerky, meal replacement bars. Back to the NOC, we rented a bunk for $20. We have access to a group bathroom and kitchen. There is also a outdoor center (gear, clothing, etc) on the grounds. And, a good restaurant. To be honest I feel like all I do now is eat!! We met some new hikers today and we also ran into some that we keep seeing every other day or so. All such nice interesting folks. And, of course... Like minded. Friends and family have asked if I am having fun. The answer is: Yes and no. I love being in the outdoors, I love the challenge, I love meeting new people.... I don't love: being cold, having to unpack, repack my backpack, I don't like my shoulders hurting from carrying the pack... But, as I have said.... I will keep walking until I have enough. I hope that is in Maine but if it is VA, PA, etc... So be it. For now what I know is ... Tomorrow I will hike... It is all about one day and one step at a time. I feel like I am still learning how to actually hike this trail. I learn something new every day. I have become quite good at hitch hiking or simply walking up to someone getting in their car and explaining where I am going and could they give me a ride. Chrissy has been a help in every aspect. Not only moral support but also logistical support. In fact, she was the one who secured the bunk beds for Trotter and myself. Love her!!Several people have asked.... So how short is your hair?   Well, it might be the worse haircut I have ever had... In some places it is 1 inch and others ...maybe 2. But, actually I don't really care. The strange thing is... It is very dark .. Black! I don't ever remember having such dark hair. What is that about? Anyway... All is good. Trotter talked me into taking the top bunk because she is older and needs to go potty more then I do!! Humm??? And, the boathouse is 82 steps away.. Yes I counted! Ok. Done for the night. Not so sure if I'll have cell service over the next few days but I will post when I do. Thanks again for following along and sending nice messages. I am including a picture of s page out of my guide book so you can have an idea of how I know where things are (water, camping areas, etc.)