Date: 2006-04-05
From: Woody Gap

To: Muskrat Creek
Miles today: 58.0
Weather: broken clouds

March 31-April 5 Woody Gap to Muskrat Creek Well these six days have been tough. I thought I would have been able to pick up the pace but steady and slow best describes my hike thus far. I am getting used to the pain and appreciate the physical challenge, the greatest I have ever had. On March 31 I reached Neels Gap after hiking 11 miles from Woody Gap. I was happy to fine tune my still too heavy back pack when I reached Walasi Y Center where I bounce boxed some supplies to my next stop. I eliminated some food and stuff and sent it ahead as I still don¢t have much of an appetite. I continued on April 1 to White Oak 7 miles down the trail. I did pick up some ground on the 2nd hiking 13 miles and camping out at Unicoi Gap when the weather really made a statement. Heavy, vicious winds tore through the trees knocking down branches and some small trees in its path. I kept snug and dry in my excellent tent. How exhilarating to hear the rain pounding hitting the tent with a vengeance as I rested peacefully within. Those of you who know me won¢t find it strange that I adopted four kids from Atlanta who were on a short hike.   I thought I was on sabbatical from teaching, but teacing comes naturally. The kids were thrilled with my culinary wisdom, when I showed them how adding a little olive oil into their freeze dried food does wonders. Another 10 miles on 4/3 brought me to Addis Gap. Woke up early on the morning of April 4 and was all set to put some miles behind me. After about 6 miles as I came over the hill, I experienced my first encounter with hiker magic. The cookies, soda, chocolate, and more greeted us as we were met by The Roman Noodles, Paul and Cindy. They make a pilgrimage once a year to meet and support hikers as they struggle along the beginning weeks of their journey. They offered to drive a fellow hiker and me to town so we could spend a night in Ducks Creek Gap at the Blueberry Patch hiker hostel. We jumped at the opportunity. I needed this nero day more than I realized. A shower and a good night¢s sleep were so refreshing. Our hosts, Gary and Lennie run this bunk house as part of their Christian ministry. They provide beds, showers, phone and the best breakfast consisting of blueberry pancakes, eggs, sausage and tea. They do this for free but do accept small donations which I gladly contributed. Another surprise was the return of The Roman Noodles that evening who took my hiking buddy and me out for dinner where we shared a meal with their relatives who were traveling with them. When morning came and our breakfast was completed, the Roman Noodles picked us up and drove us back to the trail. With a late start but with renewed energy and steadfast conviction I continued onward. I couldn¢t help thinking all day how much Gary, the hostel owner reminded me of my dear friend Gerry. He looked just like him and talked like him too. We don¢t question, we just accept. It is now early evening and I have crossed over into North Carolina as I hiked 11 miles. I am at Muskrat Creek Shelter but choose to set up my tent on a ridge line overlooking the valley about 400 feet from the shelter which is bustling with the other hikers. From the ridge I can see the valley below. The panorama is spectacular, spring is indeed in the air as flowers are beginning to push through their bud protection. I hope I can pick up my pace eventually, but for now I will just enjoy and experience every moment