Date: 2005-07-17
From: US9/NY403 (Kent, NY)

To: Campsite at stream before Dennytown road
Miles today: 7.2

Wow! I can't say enough about how wonderful the Fiores were to us during our stay. What a lovely family! We enjoyed a time of fellowship, food, ice cream, showers, laundry, and soft beds while there. Each of us had our favorite flavors of Ben and Jerry's waiting for us upon arrival with backups in the freezer. Linda was kind enough to play the piano for me last night, and we stayed up late into the night talking with David and Tami. This morning we had breakfast with the whole family and then took group pictures before heading out to church. It was so good to go to a church service. Since being out on the trail we haven't been to church because we are typically in town during the week so as to check for mail. We were a bit intimidated about showing up to church in hiker attire but they all assured us that it was a casual atmosphere. True to their word, the church was laid back and the congregation, very welcoming and friendly. There was even donuts and coffee at the back for everyone.After church we went back to the house and had a leftover lunch. The Fiores were just non-stop hospitality. It amazes me what can happen when you make yourself open to others and their kindness. I thank God for these people, all the people who have helped us along the way. I know how difficult it would have been for me to want to open my car door, let alone my house to smelly, dirty, and unkempt people before this hike, and to have numerous people offer rides, beds, a cold beverage means so much. In the same regard, Bug and I have had to learn to be more trusting and accepting of the people offering us that kindness.It is always hard to get back on the trail after being in town, but it was especially difficult for us to leave this wonderful family. Two parents and six children who all radiate love and happiness and are open to share their lives is such a blessing. We have constantly been reassured of human kindness out here, and it makes us feel better about our fellow man when there are so many bad things that happen in the crazy world we live.David took us back to the trailhead, and reluctantly we started walking. Just as soon as we got into the woods, we saw a mama turkey and her babies. We hiked hard and fast and it was a good thing, because soon, the rain came down. There is really no room to complain about the rain though, because we have been so blessed with not having to hike in rain. It did come down pretty hard though, and before long we were soaked.After a quick break at Old Albany Post Road, we continued up the mountain. The decision was made to camp at the stream if there was a place to do so. As we made our way up to the stream, we saw a familiar bright orange Hubba and a blue poncho hanging on a tree. Hareball was there camped out by the stream and we were so happy to see her again. We had lost her in DWG when she stayed behind to eat blueberry pancakes for breakfast. We made our way across the stream and found a nice flat spot to set up our tents. Dinner has passed and we had a tasty meal of ramen noodles, and now I must say after a full but great day that it is time for bed.