morvasaaty/AppalachianTrail-LD-Hikers-Blogs-and-Weather-20-years huggingface dataset:
Date: 2014-05-27
From: U.S. 220 VA 816 Daleville, VA

To: Wilson Creek Shelter
Miles today: 11.2
Weather: light rain

I left the motel lobby shortly after noon where I had plugged my phone in to get one last charge. I went by the next door convenient store to get a Good Humor ice cream bar for the road. I unwrapped it in the store and started eating it as I walked.Walks in and out of town usually go through abandoned gardens, farms and orchards and today was no exception. My cousin Debbie said to stop and smell the roses, which I did--great bunches of white wild roses. And I stopped to smell the honey suckle also, although I could smell them without stopping. I picked one to suck the nectar out of also.After passing a couple of meadows with huge black Angus lazing around trying to swish the tiny flies off, I started the customary climb that is necessary to get out of towns which are in the valley.Daisies were a favorite flower of Wilma, my first wife. Every time one just shows up randomly I take it as a sign she is present in spirit and praying for me and family. Starting Friday the 23rd (our anniversary day) I started watching for them all along the way and finally spotted a single one in a meadow on Saturday. None on Sunday or Monday but today there was a meadow full of them.The climb followed an easy grade through a mature second growth hardwood forest. I am guessing second growth because of the number of poplar trees. There were huge poplars and even larger oaks, many 50 to 60 years old at least. Some had a circumference greater than twice my arm span although I didn't stop to hug their ivy clad trunks. The beauty of the trees, fragrant flowers, fresh legs and a comfortable grade made the first couple of hours an enjoyable walk--and don't forget the bar of Good Humor ice cream.Most of the day was breezy and comfortable even though the forecast said upper 80's. Parts of the last 2 hours had increased humidity and no winds so I began sweating on the hills. I came to a brook with a sign stating seven tenths of a mile to shelter, so I washed my feet, legs, arms and head and shirt as well. I was feeling cleaner and refreshed especially after putting the damp shirt back on.I had a dinner of an apple, a Parmesan pepperoni roll, and cheddar cheese. For dessert I had seven layer cookies sent to me by my cousin Debbie and hot mocha to drink.If you wonder about drinking water from creeks, etc, the water from Wilson Creek tasted better than the water from town. I always treat it with Aqua Mira first.There are a total of 6 hikers at the shelter tonight. New people to me.
Date: 2014-05-28
From: Wilson Creek Shelter

To: Bryant Ridge Shelter
Miles today: 20.8
Weather: overcast clouds

I got up in time to leave at 7 AM. I hiked 10 hours including breaks and made 21 miles. Most of the path was fairly easy to walk so I made good time. I was ready for a rest, food and more water when I arrived at Bryant Ridge Shelter. The shelter is by a small stream which made getting water and washing my feet easy. Since I can also hear the song of brook from my loft sleeping place in the shelter, I will sleep well.For breakfast I had hot hot coffee with Starbucks mix from Mindy and seven layer cookies from Debbie.For first snack break I had miniature nutter butter cookies from Mindy. I made my energy drink too with chia seeds from Jeremy and black cherry lime mix and emergen-C orange mix.Lunch was more rolls and hard salami and ate the left overs from that for dinner. Had a pack of M&M's for the energy to get up the thousand feet climb at the end of the day. I finished off all the mini carrots today also.Soon after leaving camp this morning, I began to walk through pathways of blooming Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel. There were masses of color. Some of the Rhododendron were falling off on the pathway reminding me of the church aisle at a wedding covered with flower petals. The tiny Mountain Laurel blooms look like little lace cups.It wasn't too long before I reached the Blue Ridge Parkway, which I was excited about because I haven't driven this section before. The trail stayed in the woods but would occasionally emerge at one of the over looks. I think Peaks of the Otter is one of the most commonly mentioned stops on the Blue Ridge Parkway. I liked the view that looked down on the James River which I will cross on Friday, on the longest AT bridge. I am excited about that because I was there in 2002 with Marcia and my daughter Paris.I just read a reference to Kurt Vonnegut's book A MAN WITHOUT A COUNTRY about a quote from his Uncle Alex. His main complaint about people was their failure to notice when they were happy.Vonnegut writes, "So when we were drinking lemonade under an apple tree in the summer, say, and talking lazily about this and that, almost buzzing like honey bees, Uncle Alex would suddenly interrupt the agreeable blather to exclaim, "if this isn't nice, I don't know what is."Well that was what I was thinking during my first 10 miles today as I strolled through the colorful thickets and stopped to view great vistas: "if this isn't nice, I don't know what is."
Date: 2014-06-01
From: US 501 Va. 130 James River

To: Saltlog Gap
Miles today: 7.4

I got underway about 16:00 from James River footbridge after spending the weekend with Uncle Phil and Aunt Marilyn. Many thanks to them for their hospitality and to my sister Iris, AKA Blue Flower, for coming from VA Beach and driving me around. I wanted to get a few miles in and get over the initial mountain climb that always comes with leaving a river valley--in this case down to 680 feet.The reward of the climb was seeing the James River from a birds-eye-view, which I had missed coming down the opposite ridge due to clouds, rain and fog.I only saw one hiker for the evening who was a guy whom I think must have been hiking quite a distance that day, because he seemed so relieved to get to the turn off for Johns Hollow Shelter, which is less than 2 miles from the river and not even into the real climbing part.There were no listed campgrounds in the guide, but I am beginning to feel a bit more at ease about predicting the possibility of a location given scant hints. In this case, after the peak of the mountain there were two gaps with trail crossings and one even had a water source listed.The first was Saddle Gap and had very little to offer so I was hoping for better at the next, Saltlog Gap, even though daylight was fading. Bingo, this location had a place cleared out with two tent sites on either side of a 2 feet diameter, hollow, fallen log. I was definitely staying in the tent for some protection from what ever found this log to be its habitat. I attempted to hang my food bag but it turned out to be too close to the trunk of the tree I was using and it was too dark and I was too tired to look more. So I did the no-no and took the food to bed with me. I figured I was more apt to lose a poorly hung bag out there all by itself saying, "Here Bear, eat me," than to keep it with me. I set my iTune player to Mavis Staple's live version of "Freedom Highway," which begins with a lot of screaming then some loud music. No bear showed up for the concert this night.
Date: 2014-06-06
From: Campsite View

To: US 250 I 64 Overpass
Miles today: 12.9
Weather: clear sky

So far had trail magic of drink, hot dog and elk sausage on a bun at Rockfish Gap. Then I was dropped off at the outfitters and got mail (not opened yet) fuel can and good humor ice cream. Going to Stanimals when he gets back for me.
Date: 2014-06-12
From: Gravel Springs Hut

To: US 522 Front Royal 
Miles today: 13.4
Weather: moderate rain

I spent the night in Gravel Springs Hut last night. I was hoping to stay at Mountain Home Cabbin in Front Royal for the night. As soon as I reached a peak high enough for a signal, I called Scott Jenkins at Mountain Home to get my reservation in for the night and he said he would save me a space. They take walk-ins if there are spaces left. I was wet with rain and sweat and my last shower on the 6th had long expired, so the goal of my hike for the day was to get to the B and B and get a clean body, clean clothes, and a cold soda in that order.True Blue and Boom Boom going south had told me how much they had enjoyed their stay at the Cabbin, and ever since I have been looking forward to staying there. The Bed and Breakfast is on the property of a "mid-nineteenth century Greek revival style" historic home. The Cabbin is a log cabin, now with brick veneer, that was the slave quarters for the estate. The present owners have kept the spelling of Cabbin with two B's because the daughter of the owner during the Cival War spelled it that way in her diary.As I started getting back down to the thousand foot level it got really muggy and almost seemed to make breathing more difficult. I thought that is probably a bit how True Blue felt as she first experienced the humidity of this area and had to make the adjustment from her home in arid Prescott, AZ.I was was pleasantly surprised to be greeted by Belch when I reached Mountain Home. I had not seen him since Daleville. Robyn and Kayleigh from Brighton, England are also here on a stop of an American tour as part of a world tour. They had just heard of the long trail called the AT and stopped here to take a day hike on the trail. Actually, when they came back in from their hike, I realized I had passed them on my way down the mountain. I enjoyed getting acquainted with them. It has been part of my hope for my hike to meet persons from other countries and that has worked out well.The two from England had heard about "S'mores" from American culture but didn't know what they were. For the evening treat, Lisa fired up the grill and together they roasted marshmallows and made S'mores. The toasty marshmallows smelled so good but I had already had my last treat of the evening--a Heresy's almond bar and glass of milk.Also new to them was a furry animal like a beaver but without a tail. Turned out to be a groundhog.Scott Jenkins thru hiked in 2012 with the trail name of Possible. His wife Lisa, who provided support for his hike, has the trail name Anything. Put the two names together and you have "Anything Possible." Scott states that if you have a dream and have faith, anything is possible. Related to his hike, he said there is always a chance events could have stymied the goal of a thru-hike, but setting his mind to do it and to believe that it would be possible, he succeeded. It is true I may be prevented from reaching Maine but I believe it is possible. I thank God for people like Scott and Lisa who are helping to make it happen.
Date: 2014-06-14
From: Front Royal

To: Manassas Gap
Miles today: 10.7
Weather: scattered clouds

I did a couple of trail journal reports this morning so I didn't get away from the hostel until noon. I thought I might stop at nearby shelters but I passed both of them quickly with ample time left to reach the 11 mile away shelter (Manassas Gap) as I had planned.I had two hills to get across so I didn't want a long hike and also wanted to reach the shelter in time to journal. I came up with a new Irish saying after making good time today: "fresh legs make short work of tall hills."The route passed by several old home sites with the left over honeysuckle providing a fragrant journey. I got to snack on my first fresh fruit from the trail today--mulberries. I only are a few just case - to get used to them.Passed under Interstate 66 today.There was a sign indicating the trail from here to Snickers Gap is the western boundary of Colonel John Mosby's confederacy. Seems most of what people know about him is based on a TV series a few years ago. I will watch for historical signs along the way.So far we have Fitty Shrimp, Mutton Chops and Flat at the shelter. Today has been cool and clear and tonight will be even cooler so I expect to sleep well. Seems strange coming into a shelter and only seeing 3 or 4 people after the crowded shelters in the park.
Date: 2014-06-15
From: Manassas Gap

To: Rod Hollow Shelter
Miles today: 12.9
Weather: clear sky

I slept late this morning and got a slow start. I was the last one out of camp and actually new hikers were stopping by for a break. I said I was sleeping in for Father's Day, but we all just needed a break. The dads in the group told each other Happy Father's Day.I began hiking and started my prayers. As I went with the remembrance of the departed and included all the people who have been father, father figures, or mentors to me. The first person was my Dad, of course. Then grandparents, Uncle Quentin, some older pastors, and two father-in-laws. I also included great grandparents I never met.As I walked I thought a lot about my Dad. I have hard feelings about some of his not so good parenting, but it's my problem to work through now. It helps to think about the aspects for which I am thankful. I probably would not be out In the woods today if it had not been for him. He taught me a lot about trees, plants and animals. It wasn't done as lessons but just in conversation as we roamed the hills. He also allowed me to roam at will in the forests, swamps and fields as long as the chores were done. I resented that he didn't let me roam the roads, but he allowed me to go to church and to school activities such as basketball games and plays. Our school ran a bus for most evening activities. I also thought about the good he did for others in the community, all very quietly.I also thought about the unpleasant things and offered the bad feelings to the forest as I walked. And I thought about all the men living who have been mentors for me. One reason I chose bear for a part of my trail name is that bears are seen as mentor spirits in some cultures. I made it a morning of healing for myself.Around 1:00PM I came to a bench at an intersection of trails and sat down for my first break. Soon a mother, father, and a 14 month old child stopped for a rest. The child was riding in a child carrier backpack. When she saw my back she said back, back but couldn't get out backpack.Soon an older dad and two daughters came by and sat on the bench. They were all asking about my hike and talking about hiking the AT some day. I gave them my hiker card and invited them to read my journal as well as others to find out what it was like. The three wished me a Happy Father's Day and God Speed as well.One off the ladies had a daisy sticking in her hair but i didn't mention the thoughts that were running through my mind. Often when I see a daisy I am reminded of my first wife Wilma who is deceased. When I first saw it, mentally said "okay, I see the daisy, so what is the message today other than my prayers are with you." As I continued, it occurred to me Wilma was wishing me a Happy Father's Day. Anyway, that was the meaning do me.It has been a great Father's Day with a time of meditation on fathers, text messages from family, and from the magic of people I met the trail.
Date: 2014-06-16
From: Rod Hollow Shelter

To: Bears Den Hostel
Miles today: 9.9

I got up at 6:00 A.M. and had a quick breakfast of sweet and salty bars in order to get in some hiking in the cooler hours in the morning. I was facing the section of the trail in Northern Virginia known as the "roller coaster". The elevation map of this section looks like the sine wave on a heart monitor with constant ups and downs. The peaks are never over 1500 but dip below 800 feet. I have done a lot of climbing by now so if was prepared for the hills. My goal for today at 18 miles would put me past the VA state line.The 7:00 A.M temperatures were cooler but the humidity was near 100 percent. The exercise of climbing raised a sweat that never went away. The humidity went down and the temperature climbed. One difference between today and many other climbs was that the lower ridges did not seem to have a main valley along side to send me a breeze from the thermals. I'm other words there were very few breezes for the day. The positive aspect of dipping into the deep valleys always brought me by a rushing stream. I enjoy their music and usually a feel a bit of coolness.I noticed an eerie silence at the top of the first climb with only the distant sounds of birds or jet planes audible. But immediately I renamed the silence as a reverent present much like one finds when going into a cathedral when no one else is present and I stopped for my morning prayers.An hour later I was asking myself where has that "Mighty strength I arise with today,"gone? The heat zapped my energy and made slow going all day. Also, yesterday my left foot slid forward and I sat down on my right leg which bent in a way it has not since I was more flexible at 2 years of age. It is a bit sore but not painful to use. However, I want to go as easy on it as possible and not power up and down the mountains.I slide on damp gravels yesterday, so that was a lesson to be extra careful descending the hills today on moist rocks. The rocks were cold and the air warm so they were all covered with a dewy surface. More than one person said they were almost in a daze from staring at the trail carefully judging each step.After a couple of hours, I decided to at least stop at the Bears Den Hostel for a cold soda. I arrived by one in the afternoon and before long I had claimed a bunk and decided to stay. After my chores were done, I lay down for a nap and fell so soundly asleep that when I woke up a little once and heard voices, I had no idea where I was for a minute. I realized then it had been an appropriate decision to stop at 10 miles for the day because I needed the rest.I met the Professor from Lexington, KY tonight who has been a day behind me on the trail.Most of the hikers watched the USA soccer game tonight. They were making plans to go to town to find a place to watch because they were assuming there was no cable TV. I said look at this wire coming in the back of the TV. They tried the wire and sure enough had cable and watched soccer, washed clothes, and ate pizza and Ben/Jerry's for the evening.
Date: 2014-06-18
From: David Lesser Memorial Shelter

To: Harpers Ferry West High Street
Miles today: 9.3
Weather: broken clouds

I spent the night at David Lessser Shelter. Jaqi and her mom Jeri were also there. They are completing a section hike today to celebrate Jaqi's high school graduation. This is the 4th day I have connected with them. They left camp before me today but I ran into them three more times today. First at the Sweet Springs grocery, next during a break on the trail and lastly they passed me in a car in Harpers Ferry.I stopped by Sweet Spring Country Store for lunch and a recharge for my phone. It is a good thing because later in the day I got to join the birthday celebration for Marcia's mother via phone. When I finished that call I had only 2 percent charge left. I was happy to be able to visit with so many of my family all at once while I was standing in a forest of tall trees and they were at an ice cream shop. (I had my ice cream too, just a couple of miles back.)As I passed the 2 mile to ATC headquarters mark, my excitement began to mount as the realization was sinking in that I was almost to the Trail headquarters. I had my gratification delayed by the difficult descent and step assent from the river valley in the heat and humidity. After a cold soft drink and a brief rest I called Marcia back to let her know I had "arrived." She asked me if was okay a because it sounded out of breath. I thought I was recovered from the last hill. So maybe I was just overwhelmed with the thought of having reached this point date all these years of preparing and three months of hiking.
Date: 2014-06-22
From: PA 233 Pine Grove Furnace State Park

To: Toms Run Shelter
Miles today: 3.4

My sister Iris, aka Blue Flower, shuttled me to Pine Grove Furnace State Park in order for me to walk back to Harpers Ferry to catch a train to DC in order to fly to my son's wedding. We had a family get together this weekend in Harpers Ferry to celebrate reaching the almost halfway point. Family included some of my cousins, Sisters and some of their children. I was the one walking the trail but they have been supporting me along the way in lots of ways. I thank them and everybody else who has been cheering me on.Also accompanying me back to the trail today were Blue Flower's son and my sister Linda. We made a visit to Gettysburg Memorial Grounds on the way back, since it was only a short detour, and some us had never been there. This helped fulfill my hopes of visiting some historical sites on my walk. I want to go back sometime and visit Eisenhower's farm near here since he is my favorite president.The magic, mystery or serendipity of the trail was at work again today. Blue Flower has now met a few of the hikers after meeting me on the trail and staying the night at Three Springs Hostel. One was "True Story." She had seen "Fitty Shrimp's" picture in the ATC 2014 album and he was at the General Store so she met him. Flat, True Story and White Rabbit had just finished their half gallon of ice cream, a traditional AT challenge at the midpoint of the trail. I will probably try the challenge when I get back on the trail, because by then I will have walked half the distance to Maine.I reached Tom's Run Shelter and had cookies, Hershey bars and milk for dessert. I had already had dinner at the Gettysburg KFC.I am the only one here at shelter for tonight, probably because it is so close to the General Store. I see a lot of mosquitoes but I have long pants, shirt, a net over my head, and I'm in the sleeping bag liner. The only part exposed are my hands holding phone and typing. I'm going to sent this post and go to sleep listening to the music of Tom's Run Creek.