June updates!

May 29-June 1

So, our zero in Daleville was great!! Probably our most relaxing yet, we actually got all of our chores done and had ample time to relax! We ate a decent breakfast at the hotel, nothing special, and took our time getting our stuff together. It’s always hard leaving town, we’re excited to get back to the trail but it’s nice to relax too. The hike back out got HOT quick! We left at about 9 am and started going UP. It wasn’t bad terrain but very humid. We got to the first shelter about 5 miles out and had lunch. Airlock and Gunner were there too. We ate a good lunch and kept hiking, we got to Wilson’s creek shelter around 3 pm which is slightly early for us but there was a 7 mile stretch with no water or camping listed so it was either hike all 7 and get to camp late, hike with enough water for breakfast, dinner and drinking (which is heavy) and hope for camping or just make camp. So we made camp. It was 11 miles right out of town so well take it. We made a fire and started an early dinner, the b’s showed up too and slow ride who we haven’t seen since Grayson highlands so that was a nice surprise! We got to bed slightly early and watched lost.

The next day we wanted to make up miles so started early. The terrain wasn’t too bad that day lots of little ups and downs, some pretty steep but there were actually flat sections at times! We also kept crossing the blue ridge parkway which made for some Spectacular views but we were joking that we were tempted to just go walk the road as we were parallel the entire morning but as we were walking up and over rocks the road was smooth walking under us. But that’s not what we signed up for I suppose! We climbed up Cove Mtn which was HOT we had been under shade all day so we didn’t realIze how hot the sun was beating down. It made the climb longer and we had lunch at cove Mtn shelter, met Mcfly and gunner there. We pressed on and came across Jennings Creek – there were others swimming so we decided to take in the moment! Brian went all the way in I didn’t want to hike the rest of the miles in wet shorts so just washed my shirt and let it dry and soaked my feet! It was great! We only had about 4 miles left but it was up and over a Mtn so headed out. The rest of the day wasn’t too bad, we were hoping to stealth camp along a stream but it wasn’t looking good finally we found the perfect spot! Thank you Lord! Mcfly came up and decided to stay there as well. We made a fire and dinner and headed to bed! It was one of our longest days yet at 21 miles!

The next day started with a climb again, of course! This one was LONG but not too bad overall, it seemed to go on forever though! We went up Apple Orchard Mtn and saw the FAA tower which was cool and then passed under the guillotine, a well known boulder that you pass rt under. We stopped at thunder hill shelter for lunch – we were pooped. So much uphill! I ate a lot of food for lunch and we started the rest of our hike. We had some really great and surprising views and also one rough climb at the end of the day but finally made it to our campsite for about 17.5 miles. A lot harder than the 21 lol. Mcfly was already at the campsite, yay! He’s a good egg! Also airlock and gunner came later (also good eggs) and we all made a fire and are dinner then went to bed and watched lost. 😊 we also got greeted by a whippoorwill throughout the night – it basically sounds like a loud car alarm! So crazy the noise that bird makes! Needless to say we woke up slightly tired but knew we only had 8 miles to the road to Glasgow and we could hopefully get a shower and some food!

We had a beautiful hike the next day!! June 1st – crazy!! It was cool (well cool-ER) out and we walked a ridgeline over the mountains. We had a pretty long descent and then crossed the James River footbridge – the longest on the AT. I love being over the water- water makes me happy lol. We got to the road and parted ways with Mcfly, gunner and Airlock (they are resupplying 20 miles north) and were praying we’d catch an easy hitch the 6 miles in to Glasgow. Then we noticed a car pull up dropping off two hikers, the man asked if we were going into town and like a ride? Of course! He was the nicest 84 year old preacher named David Bain. We started talking on the way into town and said we were planning on showering in the free town pavilion (for hikers) he took us to the dollar general and said if we would like we could come shower and relax at his log cabin and he’d take us back to the trail later. We thought it over and decided to take him up on his offer, we normally wouldn’t but really hit it off with him and trusted him. He said he has never offered that to other hikers either but felt we were good people. We shopped and went back to his house, he had to pay visits to friends so he left and we showered and made lunch. Preacher Bain returned and we all ate and had great conversation and fellowship! We watched tv for a little bit while he went to the church and then he took us back to the trail! It was honestly a HUGE blessing we met and exchanged information to catch up later. He offered us his guest room but we have a lot of miles to do to meet my mom this weekend (yay) so decided to get back to the woods. We only did another mile and a half to the next shelter but it was Sooooo humid it was crazy!!! So much for the shower! All in all it was a great day and we have lots of miles ahead of us the next few days!!

June 2

Today was long and wet! But we are now warm and dry(ish) in our tent cooking dinner. It thunderstormed late last night but fortunately it was after we had settled in for Lost. ☺️ And it stopped by morning so our gear wasn’t too wet. The hike this morning was uphill first thing of course it was pretty humid but luckily somewhat cooler because of the clouds. I am feeling pretty beat up but have some rest coming when my mom comes soon! Were joking that I’m falling apart because I now have a hole in my shorts & my shoes, my gaiter needs repairing, my trekking pole is done, and my backpack is a size too big. And we won’t even get to the physical stuff. But after 800 miles some is to be expected, there are people out here going thru WAY more gear lol.

We stopped and had lunch at punch bowl shelter with the B’s, they’re getting picked up to go home for a week so they’re on the same schedule we are, I hope they catch us again though ☺️☺️ After lunch it started POURING!! Heaviest rain we have walked in! At least it wasn’t cold! It stopped raining for a while and we hiked on, really pretty trails next to a lake. About two miles from the shelter it started pouring again!! We were hoping it would let up by the time we reached camp but it didn’t so us and the B’s set up our tents as quick as we could and climbed inside. Which is now where we reside eating dinner while it still pours outside. But happy to be warm & comfortable. 😊😊

June 3-7

SO MUCH RAIN!! That basically sums up the last couple days for us. When we woke up after setting up in the rain it had drizzled all night. Luckily it stopped enough in the morning so we could break down camp and cook breakfast. We got a later start but the B’s were still there too, we were all in good spirits considering and tried to make the best. We were taking about how these are the days most people couldn’t handle – the not so glamorous side (if there is one lol) of thru-hiking. The B’s actually decided to go into town that morning, they were getting picked up the next day to go home for 5 days and thought it was best. They have a broken tent pole they ducttaped but the night before the inside of their tent was basically a lake so they’re taking the day to dry out. We started hiking and it started pouring again! I was hoping the b’s would be able to get a hitch in the rain and we got to the road they were getting in a truck! Yay! The rain kept up and we had a LONG climb! It was chilly out too we got to the top and we were above the clouds so decided to take an early lunch while it wasn’t raining. We got to the next campsite with water – only about 9 miles into our day and decided (after long decision) to just camp there. We were both super tired, cold and wet. We decided also to have my mom pick us up about 10 miles closer so we could just have an easy 15 day and 5 mile morning instead of 20 and 10. So we relaxed in the tent, got warm and dry.

The next day we woke up to rain again! Also, a mouse had chewed a hole in my food bag!! He didn’t get anything but still annoying! Not as bad but still drizzling, also still chilly. We cooked breakfast and coffee in the tent and slowly got ready. It is NO fun to put on wet and cold clothes, socks and shoes, but it’s part of the experience. The terrain wasn’t too bad lots of ups and downs but nothing too steep. We had lunch at the next shelter and slow ride caught up with us. We are quick so we wouldn’t cool off too much and headed back out. We finally made it to the priest shelter, it wasn’t a bad hike, only about 15 miles but in those conditions everything felt longer! We set up camp quickly at the shelter while the rain slowed, it was a beautiful campsite with big boulders and green everywhere! We cooked in the tent and headed to bed. It rained off and on all night. We woke up to still some drizzle but not as bad, made the hike down to the street and the fog would clear up as we walked down. It was a really cool sight to see! I also got stung by a wasp as I was walking! It hurt so bad at first but then went away, crazy I forgot how bad a wasp sting is! At the bottom we had time to spare before my mom arrived so decided to let all of our stuff dry out in the parking lot, it probably looked crazy to people as our stuff was EVERYWHERE but it was necessary! We also washed our tent so we wouldn’t have to do that at the hotel.

We waited for a while on my mom and I had no cell service (of course lol) so I was getting nervous as she was driving by herself to a random road crossing in the middle of the mountains 😁. So I stood by the road, so she could see me. Finally a couple hours later I saw her she almost ran off the road when she saw me and slammed on brakes lol. When she pulled in, she had a surprise, Brian’s mom came too!! We were so surprised and shocked! Such a great treat! We felt so bad, this was literally the dirtiest and smelliest we had been the whole trip when our moms come, lol. Oh well, they got the full experience! We went straight to Firehouse Subs because Pickles and I were starving!!! So good! Then to the hotel to check in, so nice! We hung out all weekend, ate good food, shopped and just enjoyed each other’s company! The town of Staunton, Va. was adorable! We didn’t want the weekend to end but our moms had a long drive and flight back so we headed back to the trail on Sunday but it was GREAT to have visitors! It’s hard out here! We found Rocksteady, Paradox and RightClick at the trail and hiked w them the rest of the day. It was a long hike over three ridges Mtn. But felt good to be back! We also saw ANOTHER rattlesnake! Boo!! Not a fan!

June 8-10

The next few days were pretty long. We heard VA was “flat” & “easy” – all lies. Lol. We had a couple long and tough days, hot or rainy. We hiked a Long trail into Waynesboro. We found a list of trail magic rides into town, but we only needed to get to the outfitter a couple miles away so hitched a ride there. I got a new pair of Patagonia shorts (finally!!! I’ve been looking for shorts that work for me since we started) after that we had another older gentleman give us a ride to Kroger. So nice! We decided to go to Mings buffet next door first, it was so good. I had sushi which I had been craving! We resupplied and camped at the free site in town, took showers at the YMCA and headed out the next morning.

We had a long, hot Hike out. We met up with Logman and Bin Jali and hiked w them for a bit. We also officially entered the Shenandoah National Park. We had a short first day and early dinner.

June 11

Since we did a shorter first day out, we planned on a 20 mile day to share a campsite with Bin Jali and Logman later. It was still Hot but not too bad. Shenandoah is a lot of the same, pretty but nothing too exciting. I guess that’s when Va gets it nickname the “green tunnel”. We did cross over Black rock which was really cool!
We stayed that night at an actual campground and had dinner at the wayside & showers. That’s one good thing about hiking through SNP is all the camp stores and waysides to get snacks or food at! It’s weird to have so many other people on the trails, I like the solitude but it is convenient.

June 12

We had More climbs than the day before but not too bad. It is still super hot and humid, we are drenched in sweat within 30 mins. We also saw 4 bears! Brian walked up on 2 cubs early in the morning, he backed up and tried to move away because of there are cubs you know momma is somewhere close! The scurried up a tree and when I caught up we waited a few minutes and saw them come back down! MOST ADORABLE THINGS EVER!!!! I wase melting. It looked like a storm was coming in so I tried to hike faster butyl legs were really sore so I took my time. I was about a mile from the shelter when it started drizzling, so I started running. I made it to the side trail and I could see the shelter when it POURED!! I was so close but inevitable was drenched!! Luckily, pickles had gotten the tent up and was safe inside so one of us was dry!

June 13

Still hot!!!! We stopped early at bear fence shelter and there was not a good water source so walked a mile back to a campground for water, since we were there we decided to grab some snacks and take a shower. The shower was $1 for 5 minutes, that’s when you know it’s bad!

June 14

Still a hot and long day, the terrain is a lot of the same so the days feel pretty long right now. We did have a deer at our tent last night who was not shy at all! He basically grazed right next to our tent for almost an hour, so cute! We had Lunch at big meadows campground w Logman & bin jali. Logman is meeting his daughter and her family here so is taking a few days off, hopefully we meet back up with him though as we really enjoy his company!

June 15

Breezy but still hot! We did about 15 miles and had a nice long Picnic lunch. The views opened up a bit and were Beautiful rock ledges! A nice change of pace for sure!

June 16

We did our biggest day yet, 25 miles! A lot of these kids are doing big days every day but we like to not push ourselves too much so we stay healthy! It wasn’t too bad we took a break at our last wayside in SNP and got one of the infamous Blackberry Shakes! We also saw another rattlesnake, this one did not want to move! So scary. We stopped at Tom Floyd shelter and we had run out of fuel so we tried to make our dinner over the fire, it took tooooooo long so i ate cold/warm ramen, yum. But there are some who eat cold daily, personally I like my hot meals tho! Especially breakfast!

June 17

We hiked 4 miles out of SNP! Woohoo! It was an easy hike and we hitched a ride super fast into Front Royal. We actually made it to the hotel in time to have breakfast!! Food is everything out here so that was exciting! We checked in and rested, we also met back up with Rocksteady, Paradox and right click! Yay! We got pizza and just rested in the hotel! We also had packages at the PO so took care of some errands. I don’t know if people really understand how much work it is out here. I feel like we have no downtime, I find myself missing the weekends lol. It’s a full time job, definitely a lot more planning, time, work and energy than we would have thought! Still thankful and having an incredible experience but it gets tiring!

June 18

We took our time leaving FR, resupplied at Food Lion and got lunch. It was super hot again! The weather has been crazy. We got a ride back to the trail and stopped at the first shelter. I was drained. The humidity & heat will do it quick!

June 18-21

The days were long and hot! The terrain has gotten slightly flatter but still not by much. We also went through the “roller coaster”, it is 13.5 miles of ascents and descents. I don’t think it would normally be too bad of terrain but with the heat we were feeling it. There was also a bad storm rolling in, the end of Tropical Storm Bill, a lot of people sought shelter at a hostel but we decided to march farther. We found a campsite and set up camp just in time! The storms rolled in fast! We literally had a RIVER next to our tent. A few inches over and we would have been drenched. The lightning was also really bad. I am not one to be scared of a thunderstorm but I was TERRIFIED, the lightning was TOO close! Definitely the worst storm we’ve been in so far. But we made it!

June 21

We woke up after the crazy storm and took our time getting out of camp it was Father’s Day so we made phone calls and let our tent dry out. We didn’t leave camp til almost 10 which is super late for us but we didn’t have far to go. The hike was again pretty hot but the terrain was easier. We stopped at David lesser shelter for a long lunch the water was far but the NICEST shelter so far! It had a Picnic shelter and a front porch with a swing! We stopped at a campsite right before harpers ferry. Finn (a nice guy from Finland about our age) joined us as well. It was the summer solstice aka “hike naked day” I did not participate and saw no makes hikers all day but around 8 pm, Pocahontas, Kiki and Tick joined us at camp and let’s just say Tick had participated. Luckily, I was already in my tent so did not witness but a glance, lol!

June 22

Hiked out of va and into wv for the final time – pretty easy hike crossed the Potomac into harpers ferry made it to the atc and took our halfway pic! Signed the log numbers 776 & 777. Took the shuttle to walmart and ate at a pizza place w Finn and Bin Jali, Finn had a bacon cheese fries PIZZA – yes. Hiker food is no joke. Hiked back out super cute town but super hot!! We stopped along the river, we almost camped but felt like people might stop by since it was right off a busy trail so we waited out the heat and hiked another 5 miles to the shelter. Ate a later dinner and went to bed, in Maryland! 3 states in one day!

June 23

We woke up and it was already Very hot – hottest day temps we’ve had yet almost reaching 100 but had a little breeze and cloudy so that helped.
The terrain has flattened out some but there are already a lot of rocks. We Saw a lot of deer and a few big black snakes. Ew. 😝 There are also a lot of historical sites on this part of the trail which is cool to see!

We had Trail magic from a ’93 thruhiker Mayhem, he have us Gatorade, root beer and rice Krispy treats. So nice on a hot day!

We stopped at a campsite with lots of others because it had showers and was supposed to storm later so we camped early and hung out. It started raining so dr.pickles and I watched Tracers in the tent on netflix, lol. It was nice to relax but a lot of the hikers there were up really late talking, playing music and eating, until almost midnight which is Super late in hiker world so that was kind of annoying but oh well.

I also noticed how many people yellow-blaze the trail (getting rides from trail town to trail town and not hiking sections). I never thought it would bother me but lately it has a little, yes by all means hike your own hike but we’ve had people skip multiple sections of the trail and just hike a day of two here and there and go from town to town, and STILL call themselves a thru-hiker, I am working SO hard out here so it just is a little irritating to have people not do the work and just hang out. – ok rant over, lol.

June 24

Today was a pretty long 19 miles- The weather was a lot cooler after the rain so made it nice. There were some hard sections w rocky climbs and descents but not too bad. I actually enjoy the rocky sections sometimes as I get to use some technical climbing and it changes the monotony that the trail can bring. We hiked past some really pretty streams and waterfalls towards the end of the day. Also, the campsite tonight is super nice, we stayed at Ravens Rock shelter, the shelters have def been nicer through the last few hundred miles. We will be in town tomrw!! Woohoo so excited for a night off!

June 25

We hiked 5 miles into waynesboro, pa. We left early but the hike was harder than anticipated, with a lot of rocks! You can tell PA is close! We got to the road crossing and were planning on hiking the extra 2 miles to walmart (not on the trail, we do a lot of extra miles lol) we passed a lady who was jogging and asked directions – she pointed us in the right direction and she headed off. About 15 minutes later she pulled up next to us and offered us a ride!! She had went home and came to find us! SO nice!! Thank you Barbara! She dropped us at the hotel and offered us a ride back out. 😊 we put our stuff in the room and showered and headed to walmart to resupply and get food! I have been craving REAL food! That’s the hardest part for me. I miss good, whole, nonprocessed foods! We relaxed, did laundry and rented two movies! Our room is super nice and has a blu-ray player so we watched Interstellar (so good!) and Project Almanac. It felt good to watch a movie – it’s the little things you start to appreciate!

June 26

PRESENT DAY 😊☺️😉

We woke up this morning early to eat breakfast and get back on the trail. Brian however had not slept well and was sweating all night with a headache. During breakfast he had no appetite and just didn’t feel great, so we ultimately decided to take another day off, we haven’t had a zero since our moms came so I thought it was time and we need to make sure we take care of ourselves. So we took another trip to walmart, rented a couple more movies and loaded up on fruits and veggies! He will get lots of rest and feel better and I get to feel like a human again for a day lol! Can’t believe we are in PENNSYLAVANIA!! Time is flying by! It is bittersweet, I miss a lot about the “real” world and in some ways ready to be done, eat real food, sleep in beds, play with my dog, brunch, have a day off! But on the other hand I NOT ready for this to be done. I am so grateful and know it will be over before we know it! So we are enjoying every minute and were so thankful for all of the support!! Love you all!

Xo,

Mockingbird 🐦

Lots of Updates

So, once again the trees have eaten my cell signal. Sorry for the delays in writing but I do always think about it lol. Currently, I am sitting poolside in Daleville, Va. I am going to try to write shorter daily posts and copy/paste when in town my personal daily journals are so long this blog would be about 25 pages. But, in the future!! Slowly, I’m figuring out a good process!

The last post I was in Erwin for my bday! We left Erwin the day after with a big breakfast at the hotel and headed back up! It was a pretty (hot) day we did about 13 miles and stopped at a campsite after Beauty Gap – it was early but we wanted to save the climb for the morning. We were close to a side road by ourselves which we don’t normally like to do so we made a fire in hopes other hikers would stop. It worked! We were joined by Twister & Walnut – two older gentleman and Old Eagle (for old Eagle Scout). Later Mogley and Big Easy came, two friends hiking together about our age. We all cooked ate watched the sunset and went to bed. It was COLD that night! About 30 degrees. We bundled up and the next morning the sun was shining bright so it was chilly but felt good in the sun. We hiked over Unaka Mtn. It was GORGEOUS, dense Spruce trees all over, definitely a pretty area. Dr. Pickles (Brian’s new official trail name- mine is Mockingbird – the first didn’t really seem like us 😊)  took a video and I stopped to wait on him for like 15 mins, turns out he lost the bottom half of his trekking pole while he was filming and had to go back and search for it but he found it! Thank goodness! It was a pretty long day we were both beat with heavy packs of food still so stopped at Clyde Smith shelter. Old eagle came in too and later Mogley and Big Easy, we really enjoy those guys! I was trying to help old Eagle figure out his wife’s bday present, it has to be a good one if she let him leave for this long!!

The next day we hiked over Roan Mtn., it’s over 6000 ft. We heard it was a doozy, it was rough but I think everyone made it seem SO bad it actually wasn’t THAT bad. Still tough but a gorgeous day! We had lunch at some picnic tables at the top and pressed on. Then we had some of our best hiking to date, we crossed Jane Bald and a few other balds right after and it was so beautiful!! Clear skies, breezy and 360 degree views. We stayed that night at the barn (overmountain shelter) a two story shelter with gorgeous views! The next day we hiked & then hitched a few miles into Roan Mtn, NC to resupply and grab some food – we ate at Bobs Dairyland it was AMAZING!!! Brian had a BBQ plate and I had popcorn shrimp yum! Then we camped close to head out early the next day!

The next couple of days we were in pond mountain wilderness with beautiful waterfalls we took a zero next to a beautiful stream and went into Hampton, TN for Subway and some more groceries! After our zero we hiked through the Watauga Lake area it was a HOT couple of days! We stealth camped one night after Watauga Dam and had our first bear encounter! We fell asleep normally and Brian woke up around midnight to the sound of what seemed like a 250 lb man walking around our campsite (we were alone) so he tried to figure it out, I had woken up and we both sat in our tent listening then we heard it scratch itself and shake off – A BEAR! It walked around our campsite for about 30 mins and around our tent – my heart was racing! We made some noise but figured if it wasn’t bothering us we shouldn’t startle  it! Finally it left! It took me about 2 hrs to fall back asleep but put my earplugs in and fell back into slumber. THEN around 3 am Brian heard the bear come back!! This time it sniffed into our rainfly vent! Ooof! Luckily, left again and luckily Brian decided to let me sleep through the second encounter — IGNORANCE IS BLISS!

The next day we were alive and ready to head out! We had some beautiful hikes the next few days –  saw lots of deer, snakes, chipmunks everywhere! We passed over the TN-VA border and ran back into Rocksteady, paradox and right- click, & his daughter tough love who is out here for 3 wks before she works for the summer. We’ve been hiking quite a but with then since, great people!! We hiked down into Damascus, VA. it was weird to literally hike straight into a neighborhood, the trail runs straight through the town. We didn’t stay but resupplied at Food City (& ate fried chicken – well Brian – Mac and cheese and potato skins at 10 am from the deli) and then grabbed subway for the way out. We camped not far out of town and Brian decided to go back down to the stream and take a bandana bath.  He was kind enough to bring me back some water so I could wash my hair ☺️☺️. We were joined by Bambi & Hoosier – a really nice couple doing half the trail before they go back to school; Slow-Ride – a nice guy we’ve hiked with the previous few days; and a few other guys later. The next few days were gorgeous but HOT!!! We followed the Virginia Creeper Trail for awhile, it’s a bike path that follows a stream – really beautiful. However, whoever said Virginia gets flatter and easier I have NOT seen that – it is still straight up & down & hard work! We hiked over Mt. Rogers and camped right before Thomas Knob Shelter – the view from our camp was amazing. We were eating dinner when slow-ride casually said “there’s a very large animal behind you” what?!? We all turned around and there was a pony in our campsite! Just hanging out. He was quite the spectacle and got lots of attention from everyone camped around us. It was dinner time so he was very curious of our dinners. Then we noticed about 15 or more ponies grazing right on the ridge. We watched for awhile and it was beautiful. Unfortunately, Brian got really sick that night in the middle of the night. The next day he didn’t have any appetite and felt nauseous (which is not good when you’re hiking 15+ miles daily!), but we decided to press on through Grayson Highlands State Park! Def. One of my faves so far and I will be going back to spend more time, the wild ponies were so cute and almost too friendly. One tried to eat my trekking pole strap. Even though Brian didn’t feel good it was one of our favorite days! You can’t camp in the park so right outside we camped at about 1 pm and Brian napped. I did yoga and hung out, washed some clothes in the stream and when Brian woke he felt MUCH better! The next day we made up the miles with a 20 mile day, our biggest yet. We stayed at Trimpi shelter and had our first thunderstorm (safely in our tent) the lightning was a little scary but not bad. Then, about 4 am I started feeling sick! Oh no! We guess it was a bug, luckily next day we only had ten miles to get to Marion, VA. It was the hardest 10 miles ever! I felt so sick and nauseous! But we made it and got a ride into Marion, we got our package from my mom at the post office (thanks!!!) and Brian got food (I had no appetite this time) then did laundry and resupplied, we got a room at the econo lodge and it was decent- no complaints. I needed the rest so we decided to take a zero there!

We headed back out and my stomach was still not great so we stopped early at Chatfield Shelter and I rested. The next day I felt MUCH better and my appetite was back! Thank goodness! We passed a highway that day so stopped at the Exxon and got juices and fruit – it’s crazy how delicious real food is when you’re out here! Brian lost his snow peak Spork so decided to walk into the Burrito Loco to see if they had a plastic one- the guy gave him a real spoon! Thanks guy!!

The next few days were sunny and hot again we had one day which it felt we went uphill ALL day but the sights were nice- nothing as exciting as we had been seeing but still very pretty. We made it to Bland, VA. On Brian’s birthday so went in to town to resupply and get a subway lunch! (The only real place to choose from lol) we got a hitch halfway in from a previous thru-hiker Rusty Bumper, he and his wife were driving from Ohio to Charlotte to see his daughter and were just driving thru the towns to help hikers! So nice!! Unfortunately, we couldn’t get a hitch back out so had to walk the 3 hot miles back lto the trail- it’s so different walking on a road. We were exhausted to stopped at one of the first campsites and relaxed. We met Mcfly & shimmy that day who we have been with some since – Mcfly is a BMW engineer from Germany and shimmy is from Philly. Both around our age and really good guys. The next day we did about 20 miles to stay at dismal falls- well worth it! The falls were beautiful and great campsites! The next couple days were pretty climbs mostly wooded but we saw lots of deer! We made it into Pearisburg, Va. Around 1 pm so decided to just grab some lunch, resupply and had back out. We ate at a $5.99 china buffet and it was delicious – I would never have eaten there in normal life but man was it good! We got a late start back out to the trail but camped not far out it was a late night so we snacked and went to bed. Neither of us slept much though because we were close to a super busy train track and it was LOUD all night! We did some of our biggest miles consecutively the next few days so we could make it to Daleville without another resupply (about 6 days- that much food is heavy!)  The terrain those couple days was rough- the climbs, although not as high, were steep! And the “flat” sections were super rocky! So, we had some long but good days. We also encountered the one thing neither of us wanted – a rattlesnake!!! Brian almost walked up on it luckily saw it and then it started rattling SO loud! We slowly walked far around it and made it out alive! Ahh!

On Memorial Day we came across some Trail Magic which was SO needed and appreciated!!! They had veggie burgers!! I was so excited, also chips, cookies, hamburgers, hotdogs, soda, fresh fruit. Donuts, baked goods, etc! So good!! We did cross over Dragons tooth that day which was really cool but the descent at the end of a long day was rough! It was a big rock scramble but Brian and I both agree not tired and packless it would be SUPER fun! We hiked to a road where a store was only .4 miles – we decided to go buy some water and maybe a snack and hike out to camp wherever we found. Well, they had pizza there so we decided to go ahead and eat dinner then we could just crawl in our tent. THEN, as we were talking with Oscar Mike another hiker the 4 pines hostel van pulled up with lots of our hiker friends to let them shop. The driver asked if we were going to the hostel – we hadn’t planned in our budget but he said it was donation based and we could tent there!! Hallelujah!! We really believe it was a Blessing because we were so tired and didn’t want to have to find a campsite! We piled in the van and headed to the hostel. We set up our tent and took HOT showers and went to bed. No offense, but hostels are not really for me, id rather just sleep in my tent than on a used bunk BUT that shower was great! The next morning we were walking along and a bear ran across the trail RIGHT in front of me!! He was more scared than me but so adorable!! I was so happy to safely see a bear! It was scary but awesome!! We crossed the fabulous McAfee Knob the next day!! I have been dreaming about that picture since I started planning the hike it was a powerful moment! We had another long day so we could be close to Daleville, VA. We were literally chanting Daleville up and down the mountains – we both needed rest BAD! We had an easy-ish 9 mile hike into Daleville and immediately went to the hotel and got a room, showered and went to get food at Three Lil pigs BBQ! Delicious! We then resupplied at Kroger and bought FRESH food and Produce for our zero day! Which brings us to now- I am about to dig into the rest of my purchases and enjoy the last of tonight! Back to the trail tomorow!!

Sorry so long and less details but hopefully the copy/paste function will work out in the future!! Love all you guys and thanks for the support! It’s needed and appreciated! (So are baked brownies and cookies – just saying 😉😉😉)

Til next time.

Xo,

Mockingbird

Gatlinburg to Erwin!

So, it’s been awhile since my last post. Service is still pretty bad out here but I’m hoping it will get better! We are now in Erwin, TN. And it’s my birthday!! Woo, dirty thirty – literally. It’s been about two weeks since we left Gatlinburg, a lot has happened. Hopefully, I’ll get to do shorter blogs more frequently once I get service. But, I’ll fill in the highlights.

We headed back out to finish the smokies and it was rainy. The first day back wasn’t too bad we hiked about 10 miles to a shelter and it was full so tented and made dinner under the “porch” I talked with the ridge runner a lot And a nice lady hiker Evergreen from NC, she’s been hiking w her dog and can’t have her in the smokies and you can tell she’s a little down, hopefully they are reunited now! And we ran into the B’s again, had a feeling we’d see them! The next day it was RAIN – the trails were literally streams, there was so much water sometimes there were waterfalls ON the trail. It was so bad you just had to laugh at times and tromp straight thru! When it would clear up you could see the peaks of mountains through the clouds and realize how high you were and it was breathtaking.  We were soaked from head to toe, though, literally. We tented again that night, there were only a couple of us tenting, as most wanted to stay in the shelter. We had a break in the rain so out tent was slightly drier. We went to bed and heard Freestyle come in late (about 9 pm but that’s hiker late!) and he tented right next to us. The sun was out the next morning so we attempted to dry our stuff out for a little, it worked slightly. We were the last to leave besides freestyle, he was drying all of his stuff out and listening to music so we chatted for a bit and headed out. Apparently he stopped at the shelter before and there was about 29 people inside a shelter that fits 18 – woof. We heard stories about that later from people. That day wasn’t too bad still muddy and wet but the rain cleared up. I had a package coming to Standing Bear Hostel which we thought we would take 4 days to make it there and we made it muh quicker so we decided to do a short 10 mile day to the next shelter and hang out. There were NO camping spots there so against my wanting we decided to stay in the shelter. Brian said it was a part of his experience lol. I guess so. I know many people love the shelters, I just love my little tent, it’s like my own home out here. BUT we set up our gear inside the tent, Freebyrd saw a mouse peek out and of course I picked the corner where that happened so I built a little wall with my bags 😊 but no more mouse sightings!! We built a fire in the shelter and all tried to dry our shoes and clothes. The shelter filled up pretty quickly, but all in all it wasn’t that bad, I didn’t sleep well but I did sleep. I still prefer my tent☺️

We hiked a few miles to Standing Bear and unfortunately my package was not in yet. There were lots of people we haven’t seen in a while though so it was nice to catch up. Standing bear was cute but nothing too exciting, a bunkhouse, kitchen, laundry and small resupply. We debated going to town but decided to just camp down the trail a bit by the stream and wait til morning for the package. Single Speed decided to continue on by hisself and wait on us in Hot Springs. So Brian and I got the few resupplies we needed to last us a few days and hiked about a half mile down to the stream, it was a gorgeous little campsite and we decided to wash some clothes in the stream, or ALL of my clothes which was NOT smart because they did not dry by morning. Oh well, lesson learned. I also washed my hair in the stream which was COLD but refreshing! Hanging out we decided to try and order papa johns. Failure. Hey we tried. Then we realized the hostel was so close and they had pizzas there to buy and bake so Brian walked up and got us one and while there the postman came with my package SCORE!!

Since we had package in hand we set out early the next day. It was humid and hot! The climb straight out KILLED me. I was drained but it ended finally and we finished a little early that day at brown gap since we were exhausted. We camped with coed and Tucson and zero and A couple others showed up later. We decided to start fresh the next day. The next day it started drizzling bright and early of course so we packed up and headed out soon after breakfast. I was excited to cross Max Patch later!! We felt a lot more energized that day and it was a pretty wet one. As we approached Max Patch (a big open bald) the clouds rolled on fast and thick. The wind as we climbed was CRAZY!! We literally had to hold onto our hats and packs. You could barely see 10 feet ahead . I was a little bummed to miss the views but the crossing was so unforgettable I wouldn’t trade it at all! The rest of the day was pretty uneventful, we did get the remains of trail magic from the day before, apparently a lot of 2014 thrus had a huge trail magic! Oh well we got bananas and cokes so I was very happy!! We also found tink and Wolfpine again, apparently they stayed at the trail magic all day and night, lol.

We hiked a few more miles and tried to find a good spot to camp, it started raining harder so we found a stream and Brian found a flat spot so we set up camp in the rain and cooked in our tent. The next morning I woke up to the most beautiful sunrise so decided to hang some clothes to dry out. We started to pack everything up and of course we hear thunder and drips, we hurry to grab our things but the sky explodes! Not just rain, downpour. We were soaked again. We still had the rainfly of our tent up so decided to just make coffee and breakfast and see if it clears up. Well, BOTH of our lighters are wet. AND the waterproof matches basically fall apart so after all we end ul eating a cold breakfast and climbing back into the rain. We start hiking to warm up my feet were FROZEN and Soaked I could barely take more than baby steps. Finally, they started thawing and I could walk normal. Still wet but at least not icicles. We hiked about 11 miles into hot springs and of course the sun comes out 30 mins after our departure but I’m not complaining! We find single speed at the Alpine Court Motel and decide to just stay there to make things easier. We take showers, get our laundry started and walk over to the outfitters. Got a few items we needed  there and a natural root beer and Primal Jerky! It’s meatless jerky I love and this is the first place I’ve found it so exciting!! Ate at the silver creek tavern, so good and tried our best To resupply at the dollar general. Single speed and Brian were both hungry still so we went to a Mexican restaurant for dinner. I think I went a little crazy at lunch so my hiker appetite was filled! Next morning we had a great breakfast at the diner (it’s crazy how much better you feel after real meals!) and headed out. It was a beautiful day and we had some great sites! Caught up w Denmark and hiked w him for a while. The next few days were awesome! Beautiful sunny weather and great views, lots of waterfalls and mountaintops! I climbed one of my favorite spots yet, big firescald knob, it was described as rocky and strenuous but it went up on the ridgeline and had some actual technical climbing to it and lots of rocks to go over which I personally love!! I couldn’t help but smile the entire time! Brian and I also had some of the best lunch spots to date. We have been yo-yo ing with Woo, Roo (no relation), Wallet, zero and a few others. The view from Big Bald was amazing but the hike up was tough so we took about an hour lunch to relax and get some sun. Roo took full advantage and said it’s her mission to siesta as much as possible any beautiful day, I feel ya girl! Brian and I def needed a zero day, we both felt exhausted!!  I took a little tumble too, I tripped on a root and fell on my knee but my pack was so heavy it rolled me over side ways I felt like a little snail. But no one was hurt and we got a good laugh after. We had a short day into Erwin and timed it to go to some trail magic we saw a sign for, we gt picked up by the pastor of the church and taken to an amazing spread of food, hamburgers, hot dogs, homemade baked beans, potato & pasta salad, desserts, chips, drinks everything you could think of!! They even gave us stuff to go! So thank you Calvary Baptist, you guys were FAR too kind!! We hiked to our hotel, the mountain Inn and got picked up by Mogley. A fellow hiker who lives in the area, he’s doing the PCT in a week so good luck to him! We decided to resupply day one to enjoy my birthday on our zero day!  So we hitched a ride to food lion and got lots of goodies to eat on my bday! Brian even got me a card and cupcake! It’s the small things out here! Then we celebrated and relaxed!! I can’t believe I’m 30 and get to play in the woods all day! Life is good!

Excited for life on the trail again!! Hopefully shorter more frequent blogs to come!!

Xo,

Why Not.

Franklin to Gatlinburg- no service in between

So, the rumor that AT&T is not great on the trail is confirmed! Good news, it’s better than T-Mobile. 😁 So, forgive me for not blogging more! We took a much needed zero today in Gatlinburg and it is AMAZING.

We left the dreaded low Budget Inn and had a great AYCE Pancake breakfast at Franklin Baptist Church. They were the NICEST people!! We headed back to the trail full and ready to go! It was a nice morning and warmed up quick, we hiked about 11 miles to wayah bald shelter. Freebyrd was there and the bees (BB & Queen B- super awesome girls we keep meeting up with) it was a pretty campsite and we hung out and got to bed early. I was exhausted after the budget inn and no rest! Glad to be back in my home!! (Aka my tent).

The next day was chilly starting out but turned out to be a beautiful day!! It was Easter and we got some trail magic with scones, dyed boiled eggs, bread, apples, water! Delicious! We ate a great lunch with Freebyrd on top of Rocky Bald with amazing views and marched on to Wesser Bald. The day turned out pretty warm and I hiked in a tank top and shorts for maybe only the third time! We got to camp early but decided to stay and relax because the next campsite was uphill about 5 more miles. The Bees showed up and we met Superglue, he just graduated and is a super nice guy. We all hung out and ate around the fire and called it an early night. (Early night as in before the sun sets all the way lol)

Next day we headed down to the NOC (nantahala outdoor center) the downhill hike was 6 miles but surprisingly rough. We finally made it to the NOC and had a great lunch at the restaurant and walked around a bit. We headed out around 3 pm for the 6 mile hike UP and MAN do I wish we had done that hike fresh. Let’s just say that was my HARDEST 6 miles yet. It was STRAIGHT up and cloudy so no views, drizzly at times and there were many times I just wanted to pitch my tent right there (found out later Queen B also had a rough time and they DID pitch halfway up lol – glad it wasn’t just me) but Brian was great and we finally made it to camp around 6:30 and it was PACKED and POURING rain!! We were soaked, it was another mile up to the next site but I was done so we found a tent spot close to the trail and set up. Luckily we can pitch our tent rainfly first so we stayed fairly dry considering. We cooked in the vestibule while it continued to rain and were very proud of ourselves this being the first heavy rain we’ve set up camp in. It was a LONG day. And we lost Mark but assumed he moved further when the camp was full. He did and we met up the next day. The next morning there were about 6 more tents who set up along the trail after us. It was crowded to say the least.

The next morning we were wet and tired but luckily the rain stopped enough to pack up. We were going into Robbinsville to resupply later and then decided since we were tired wet and dirty we would just stay in town the night and dry out and resupply. We stayed at the microtel and did laundry across the street but it did NOT wash our clothes! Boo. Oh well. We got an ok nights rest and a great shower and headed back out the next morning.  The climb up Jacobs Ladder the next morning was STEEP but we all felt refreshed and it wasn’t too bad! Not as bad as I was expecting from what you hear about it. It was warm too! Which was very nice. We did about 9 miles, not too much and stayed at cable gap shelter. We met up with the bees again, they looked worn out from all the rain but were planning on going into Fontana do hopefully they got some good rest!! We also met a few new hikers, Sticks, Phillip (now princess due to an incident with a princess balloon), Paradox, Goldilocks (we’ve actually ran into her a few times before this) and a few others. We stayed up later than normal chatting and talking and slept next to a stream that night which Brian loved and I just had to pee all night. 😒 we also had a lot of issues hanging our bear bag because our bags are so heavy they bend trees (no joke) and our rope sucks. Luckily we bought new rope today, so hopefully it will be better! Also, Steve our shuttle driver hiked in pizza and beer to the shelter for everyone!! So nice! I overheard someone saying this trail has renewed their faith in people and it is so true! The kindness from strangers is all over!

We hiked down and up and down to Fontana Dam, very pretty but unusually long hike that morning. The visitors center was closed, I didn’t mind but I think Mark and Brian were looking forward to a shower and sodas or food! The views from the dam were great!! Then we entered the smokies and hiked straight up again to our campsite (the only non shelter site in the smokies) and it was probably the most beautiful site we’ve stayed at so far! The tent spots were all spread over this big “valley” for lack of a better term and Brian and I felt like we had the honeymoon suite we had so much privacy! We cooked around the fire with Princess, Greg, Photo (really nice guy about our age from Michigan) and a group of high schoolers in their hiking club out on spring break. There were bear signs all over so I’ll admit I was a little nervous that first night in the smokies but all was well!

The next morning it was raining hard!! So we packed up quick, ate a protein bar- no coffee 😳😳 and headed out. It rained on and off all morning but the hike was fairly easy! The smokies are beautiful!!! The terrain has changed so much already, lots of green and wildflowers blooming. The rain finally stopped but the fog was still heavy! We made it to the shelter around 2:30 and realized the next shelter wAs only 6 miles away. We decided to press on as I didn’t want to stay in the shelter anyways (there’s a rule in the smokies that thru-hiker must stay in the shelter if space is available BUT if someone w a reservation shows up regardless of time you have to set up your tent, also you have to stay at designates areas which makes it a little more difficult). The next 6 miles were HARD, it was more uphill than we imagined and we were tired. We got to camp late around 7 and the shelter was full so we got to tent (yay) we made dinner fast and climbed into our tent. It was a colder night due to in part the high elevation in the smokies but I rested well. The next morning was COLD, but Brian and I made a hot breakfast and celebrated our anniversary!! The day turned out gorgeous!!!! We took so many breaks and pictures and just really enjoyed every moment! It was BY FAR the best day hiking to date. We had beautiful views heading up to Clingmans Dome and got there a little after lunch time. It was packed with tourists as it was a beautiful Saturday! It was a little weird to come straight out of the woods into a crowd!  We felt a little out of place so went back into the woods to have lunch after taking pictures, lol. The rest of the hike was just as great and it really feels like we are in a FOREST now. Absolutely gorgeous. We arrived to the shelter around 5 had a great dinner and hung out with Woo, Wallet, Johnny Adventure, and Red hot. We climbed in our tent early and watched lost (becoming a nightly routine). The next morning we had a quick 6 mile hike up to newfound gap and into Gatlinburg!!

We arrived at the Hilton Garden inn (thanks to my amazing parents) and it was gorgeous!! Definitely needed to relax for our anniversary, fireplace in the room, showers, saltwater hot tub, we are spoiled! We had dinner at the brewery and Ice cream then did some laundry and headed to bed. Today we had a great buffet breakfast and took the trolley to resupply at Food City and then Brian and I got dinner to go from Texas Roadhouse and watched movies in the room! It has been so nice and definitely needed but back to trail tomorrow!! And it’s supposed to rain all week! Oh well. Until then, goodnight from my comfy soft bed.

Happy Trails!

XO, Why Not?

Dicks creek to Franklin 😍

So, we have stopped in another town – Franklin, NC. Woohoo!

Sadly, I mentioned before we were going to an all you can eat pizza buffet but after a 2 mile walk (on our zero day of course) it was closed!! So we trekked on and found a Mexican place, Monte Alban, that was delicious!! Highly recommend. Then we got our stuff together took one last hot shower, watched tv and slept another awesome night in our big comfy bed. We had a huge breakfast the next day and headed back out. It was a BEAUTIFUL day, chilly at times but sunny and gorgeous. The hike wasn’t bad and we ran into the Aussie Girls who mentioned they were following the blog and didn’t realize it was me so funny I’ve done that too! Lol. (Hi girls!) and I met another cute dog, Luna, I love meeting all the dogs out here!

There te were some ups and downs that day but relatively easy. (Easier) AND we crossed into NORTH CAROLINA!! Yay!!! One state down!  We took pics and hiked on, we planned to do a shorter day but as always we decided to march on past Bly Gap to Muskrat Creek Shelter. The hike right after the border was ROUGH, we called it the stairway to heaven because it seemed to go straight up forever! Finally arrived at the shelter for about a 12 mile day and met joann from VA (now FoodTruck we named her because she was carrying WAY too much food for her) and Scott (Freebird) from MA. They were super nice and we are dinner and breakfast together.

The next day we headed out, last at camp, lol. Planned for only a 6 mile day but the hike was so easy we went a little further up over Standing Indian Mt. which was gorgeous! It was another GORGEOUS day, super sunny, dare I say hot? I listened to a lot of music those two days and it was just really relaxing to be out there. Although, I had no service after crossing the border, boo! We got to Beech Gap (super pretty campsite!) after about 9 miles at lunch and decided since it was so pretty to just stay there and enjoy the day. We relaxed, I did some yoga, we made a fire, etc. People came and went, later Greg showed up, super nice guy who actually went to SCAD too and is a metal sculptor so Brian and him had a lot in common. FoodTruck came and decided to stay, we met As You Go, and red hot and then all called it an early night. We knew we had a longer 15 mile day  so woke up early and set out!

The morning was chilly and foggy but not raining so I’ll take it! The hike was nice and easy and went through some gorgeous terrain, it changed from rocks, to streams, to ridgelines, to tunnels of green. We did the first 9 miles pretty quick, and the climb up to Albert Mt. fire tower was a lot of fun! It was almost a little rock scrambling that I love! But it was wet out so made it a little more challenging! We had lunch up top (I’ve loved my lunches of Breton Pepper Crackers, sundried tomatoes, cheddar cheese and fake bacon bits😃😃) and then headed down! The rest of the miles were pretty easy and nice in the fog. It was a dreary day of drizzle, wind and chilliness but still pretty! We stayed at Rock Gap Shelter and hung out for awhile, made coffee, dinner, chatted with Greg, redhot, and Lightbulb (super nice guy from OK and we bonded over leaving our dogs but his is at home with his wife and kids). Headed to bed about 7 pm and since no service and Brian’s iPod is almost dead we had no entertainment so listened to the wind and rain and prayed the rain would stop by morning!

It did!! We left early this morning about 8 am and hiked the 3.8 miles to Winding Stair Gap, there was a little uphill but then it was fairly easy, nice day! There was a nice guy at the gap giving out coffee, OJ, banana bread fruit, I grabbed an apple for the road. We got there early around 9:45 and our shuttle wasn’t supposed to arrive until 11 but luckily the 9 am shuttle pulled up and we got on!  We arrived at the Budget inn and waited for our room, mark got his so we started our laundry and put our stuff in his room. The laundry was ok, more expensive than the holiday inn and not too nice so there’s that. They messed up our rooms and told us we would have to go down the street to another hotel when our laundry was done, then changed that and said they DID have a room. Finally we got in our room and it is NOT worth the money. There was barely any hot water, gross rooms, hair on the sheets. Needless to say, I will be sleeping in my sleeping bag and can’t wait to get back on the trail!! I think we will rethink our staying options in the future but this was where everyone was going!

On a positive note, we had a great lunch outside in the sun at Motor Co. Grill, cute 60s diner with delicious food. And then headed to Outdoor 76, the guys there were amazing and replaced our Sawyer filter after debris was coming through even though we purchased it from a competitor! Plus they have beers on tap in the back and are all around knowledgable, great guys!! And they helped Mark get some new shoes! We resupplied at ingles, ordered Pizza for dinner and are not getting as relaxed as we can in this room! Tomorrow we head back out!

Update: my feet are WAY better in my Cascadia’s!! 🙏🙏

Happy Trails!!!

Neels gap to Hiawassee – cold!!

We are taking our first zero in Hiawassee, GA. Very much needed after our first week on the trail!

We left Neels Gap on a colder morning, I  surprisingly didn’t sleep at all in the cabin (guess I missed my tent lol) but it was still nice to relax and shower. We did a small resupply for snacks at the shop at the cabins (super cheap but small selection) and a little more at Mountains Crossings (way overpriced but got some delicious dinners). Then we headed out, it warmed up really quick as we trekked straight up out of the gap. I was quickly in a tank top then back to a jacket by the top when the wind started. We were planning a short mileage day out about 7-8 miles but we realized the shelter was over a mile off the trail so decided against it. We had some great trail magic at Tesnatee Gap w kind folks from nearby churches we all got hand crocheted hats so look like a knit cap mob on the trail. We also had chips, snacks, sodas and hot chocolate! So thankful to those guys. The trek back up was another steady hard climb! We ended up at Low Gap Shelter – super nice campsite and about a 12.5 mile day.  I had a dehydrated Mac n cheese meal that was DELICIOUS Im really enjoying all of my food and the prepackaged meals, although expensive, are nice because they have all the protein & vitamins you need PLUS you eat out of the bag so no dishes yay!!

The next morning was cold and foggy!! It rained some overnight so once again we were wet, But warmed up nice quickly. My blisters were hurting pretty bad (dang Vasque boots!) and Marks toe was pretty rough so we were once again planning a shorter day but Guess what we somehow missed the campsite! We crossed Unicoi Gap where many people took a shuttle into Helen, ga. We knew we were stopping in Hiawassee in a few days so pressed on. I was not excited about the 1000 ft climb out of the gap BUT halfway up we found an unofficial campsite out of the wind and next to water so we made camp and had an early night and a chance for our stuff to dry out. Woohoo! That night temps dropped to low 20s and windy, I didn’t sleep at all as I was freezing and it even snow flurried some. We woke up freezing and wet again as the frost on everything started to melt. I had a rough morning getting motivated but in a few hours the sun was shining and we started to defrost. And then praise the good lord as my energy was slumping from the climb up Tray Mtn. We came across the Red Truck/green truck Trail Magic FEAST! I wish I ate meat because they had it all, we caught up w Big Foot and Micro (Becca)  (had been leapfrogging w them all day) and wolf pine (Nathan) and tink (tiara) also caught up with us. Brian and Mark had everything from BBQ chkn sanwiches, hot dogs, sausages, chili, stroganoff, cookies etc. I had biscuits and hashbrowns and a coke and then took an orange to go. 😊 Brian (which way) took a miller lite Togo lol.

SN: Brian and I were given new trail names, he is which way and mine is why not? 😊

We were going to stop at Tray Mtn Shelter but since it was at a high elevation and we knew it would be a cold night we hiked  on to Sassafras gap (there seems to be a trend here lol) to be a little warmer. We set up camp w/ Wolfpine, Tink, Big Foot, Micro, BugMan & Flea and sat by the fire for a little. Whichway and I climbed into our tent early around 6:30 and watched an episode of Lost and tried to get warm for another night in the 20’s. I prepared this night, I had toe Warmers, two pairs of socks, two pants, shirt, jacket, hat, scarf (Buff) and hand Warmers. I have a 15 degree bag but just tend to always be colder, I did sleep a little better than the previous night. The next morning was still cold but SUNNY so felt warmer already! We got a later start around 10 am because we only had a few short miles (6.5)  to Dicks Creek Gap for our shuttle pickup.

The hike to Dicks Creek Gap was surprisingly longer than anticipated with the ups and downs Georgia is know for. It is literally straight up a mountain then straight down all day long. The views and terrain are worth it though! We got to Dicks creek around 1:30 and our pick up was at 2 so we grabbed some chips, soda,  and a water from Foot & crazy horse (two previous Thru Hikers who are characters!) and hung out w Micro & BigFoot until our ride came. We also saw Mars and Buddy again for a little but they were hiking on, Mars hurt her knee so she’s going slower hopefully she heals fast!! Our ride John came and took us into Hiawassee, the town was Beautiful – along a lake and mountains. We are staying at the Holiday Inn, it’s pretty nice and feels GREAT to shower again! We ate dinner at Daniels for the buffet, VERY southern food, not what any of us would normally eat but still good. Brian and I took advantage of the hot tub for a little which was great and I have my new shoes!!! Woohoo! We also got to watch the season finale of the walking dead! 😄

I slept AMAZING last night, Brian slept better but not great (even though he is napping as we speak so he should be ok). We are breakfast at the hotel then ran errands, including Starbucks! Yes!

We we are back at the hotel now, doing laundry, organizing and planning to eat dinner at Big Al’s tonight an AYCE Pizza place! needless to say the first week we’ve had it ALL but it will just make the summer that much better!

Were planning on crossing into NC tomorrow! Woohoo!! I’m missing my pup a lot but know she’s great at her grandparents ☺️.

Until then, happy trails!! Xo,

Why Not?

Day 3 – accidental long day & day 4 blood mtn

Quick update! It’s day 4 hooray!

Yesterday was unintentionally a longggg day. It was gorgeous!! We woke up to cooler weather and headed straight down and straight back up mountains prettying all day! It was awesome watching the terrain change so much, we hiked from dead trees and dry up top to red Georgia clay to dense wet streams and green forests. I do have some blisters from my boots but am getting new shoes sent in a few days. Hallelujah! I’ll be honest they hurt BUT the experience is already worth it.

So we made it down to a gap and had our first trail magic w super nice former thru hikers and I met bacon & Wiley two adorable dogs I fell in love with and have seen here and there ever since they are hiking to Maine also. ☺️ We decided with the group we were with (Mars, buddy, Tink & wolf pine- super awesome folks!) to hike 3.5 miles past a parking lot (woody gap) to a campsite with water (lands creek) we arrived around 5:30 pm and lo & behold it was PACkED. So we grabbed water and decided to trek on, we gave the one free space to Mars & Buddy because they had hiked an extra few miles than us. Long story short, we walked along a ridge w NO flat grounds to camp and about 2 miles later we found a campsite w 4 other thru hikers just as the sun set. They luckily were super nice and we set up camp and cooked and hung out around the fire  and then went straight to bed!

We woke up today – day 4. A little more rested even though it was a late night. It was a damp foggy drizzly morning today but eerily beautiful! It was a super nice hike up to and to the top of blood mountain! Which was work about 800 feet incline in a mile at one point but the scenery was so gorgeous with the fog it was enjoyable. The hike down was rough with a lot of rocks and stairs but then we hiked into Neels Gap which was fun as it is kind of our first AT stop per say. We all hung out, ate, etc. Then we decided to grab a cabin next door at Blood Mountain Cabins and relax for the night! I’ve washed my hair twice, we made dinner, have a beautiful back porch with rocking chairs and laid out ALL of our stuff to air dry. The people here are SO nice and they do your laundry for you too so your girl Crayola (my official trail name 😊 because of my colorful wardrobe and the fact I look like a little kid) is clean!! Tomorrow were doing a small resupply and a short 7 miles out. But folks I’m hitting the hay (AKA a REAL Queen bed) see ya on the trail!!

Xxoo

Ps when I get a better signal I will upload more pics sadly my camera doesn’t connect so it will be after the trail for those BUT I do have my phone that I will upload soon but the signal here is not great.

Just a quick update as I’m trying to preserve battery life lol. We completed day 2 yay! We did the approach trail yesterday up to Springer Mountain Shelter and it was a rainy mess! BUT it was a great start and might as well start out w the messy and get it out of the way. We had to Cook our food in the shelter and set up camp in the rain but it was a good time and we made the best! We met a few great people lots of thru hikers from all over. Everyone is super friendly! We’ve been hiking since the lodge with KC king of cool (Roy) and he’s camped w us both nights super nice older gentleman.

Didn’t get great sleep the first night w the rain and everything being wet BUT day two was gorgeous!!!

We got a late start at about 10:30 am we left camp feeling pretty good sun came out and blue skies and amazing views! The first half was pretty easy especially compared to the approach trail which was WORK. There were a few strenuous hills today and were all feeling it but hopefully get our legs soon! I met a service dog hiking the trail w Ukelele and made me miss my baby, she was so cute!! We did about 9.5 miles today and stopped At a beautiful campsite and ate fantastic dinners and watched the sunset! Hopefully getting better sleep tonight!

Mark has his trail name, single speed (from his cycling background and the fact he only has one speed lol), Brian right now is Mr. fidgets because he keeps messing w his pack and changing things, and it prob won’t stick but mine rt now is mudbath because the first day for some reason the way I walk I had mud EVERYWHERE up my legs but it’s not a for sure trail name yet. Stay tuned. : )

Sidenote: I’m buying new shoes at the first town because my boots I have (as I suspected might happen) are causing a couple blisters but I’ve stretched and moisturized and hopefully will be ready to go tomorow and hopefully get some new shoes soon! Yay!!

Happy trails! & goodnight!

Day zero.

We are in Amicalola Falls, we hiked down from our cabin to the visitor center and officially registered!! Yay! We also saw the BEAUTIFUL falls and climbed the infamous steps of the approach trail. Tomorrow we are beginning up to Springer Mountain!

Tonight we will have one last great meal at the lodge, probably lose some more weight and food from our bags, lol. And then get a good nights rest (as good as our anxiousness will allow) we had a few guest snorers so I tested out my earplugs and I’m prepared for any hiking snorers, hopefully. ; )

We are sooooo excited!! It is absolutely gorgeous!!! It’s supposed to rain tomorrow but what better way to head out then with some free water. Starting out properly!!

is i also already super miss my pup back home, I think that is the HARDEST part but I know she is loved and happy. 😌

Happy Saturday!

Cabins at Amicalola Falls

Gear Time!

SO, were off to Amicalola Falls!! We have a cabin for two nights and then we begin!! So anxious and excited and nervous and happy, emotions are everywhere but excitement is probably the all inclusive word.

That being said my bag is fully packed! So what better time to do a little gear list??

When preparing for our trip I didn’t really enjoy as much the gear lists BEFORE the trip but more so what actually worked! I mean you could start with a king size pillow and a port a potty BUT that won’t help me figure out what I need. However, when you have to leave those items at a donation box I’ll know they didn’t work. So, this list is mainly to see what I started with and what does or doesn’t work. 😊😊

I’ll divide it into sections – (some stuff isn’t pictured and some that is pictured won’t be taken all at once and will be sent later)

Pack-

Osprey Ariel 65 (Tina) Osprey Aether 60 (Brian)

Dry Sacks and compression sacks are mostly sea to summit of different sizes

Clothing-

Shoes – starting with Vasque GTX boots, switching to Brooks Cascadia’s trail runners in the summer

Brian’s- Salomon hiking boots and Brooks Cascadia trail runners

Patagonia Running shorts

Darn Tough socks, & SmartWool PHD socks

Blogilates tank top

Buff headwear

Patagonia Boy shorts underwear

Nike running tights

Patagonia Capilene long sleeve shirt

Rab Rain Jacket

REI rain pants

Black Diamond weatherproof gloves

Salomon Beanie

REI gaiters

Patagonia Nano Puff zip up

Patagonia Capilene 1 pants and shirt to sleep in

Patagonia Mesh Hat

Crocs Kadee Collection – camp shoes

Brian’s clothes are pretty much all Patagonia and Prana ; )

Shelter and Sleep-

Tent- MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2 (Brian and I sharing)

Big Agnes Roxy 15 degree sleeping bag (Tina)

Marmot sleeping bag (Brian)

Sea to Summit Silk Liner

Sea to Summit Aeros Ultralight pillow (I tries using the stuff sack with  loathes and it wasn’t for me ; ) )

Thermarest Womens NeoAir XLite Sleeping Pad (Brian has the same but regular)

Toiletries – (will probably send a lot of this back but I’ll figure out what I need lol you can judge me) 😉

Vitamins & Supplements (mixture I’m a vegetarian so it’s a little more important)

Allergy Meds, Advil, Birth Control

Homemade First Aid kit w/the basics 😉

Deet, & a natural insect repellent

Nail Clippers

Chapstick

Toothbrush & toothpaste

Comb

Dr. Bronner’s Soap

Face Wipes

Vaseline

Lotion

Hair coconut oils (yup)

Sunblock

Scissors

Deodorant

Diva Cup (highly recommend for the ladies)

Kleenex

Sea to summit pack towel

Kitchen-

Food Bag – Z packs Bear Bag

Sea to summit insulated mug

Snow Peak titaniun pot & pans

MSR Pocket Rocket Stove (sharing)

GSI Outdoors pot scraper

Snowpeak Spork

Platypus 3 L & 1 L

Sawyer Mini Squeeze Filter (& MSR tabs)

15 lbs of food!!! Ahhhhhh

Electronics etc –

Rite in the Rain notebook & pencil

AT guide

Ravpower Charger & cords

Olympus Tough TG-2 Camera

iPod shuffle

Iphone 5s in a life proof case

Others-

Earplugs

Bug Nets

Osprey Pack RainCover

Pstyle (which is awesome!)

Mini Bic lighter

Mini Swiss Army knife

Black Diamond ZPoles Womens

Hand & Toe Warmers

Well, that’s about it for now! Next blog I should be out on the trail!

Happy Trails, Happy Days!! 😊☺️