We've reached our first milestone, completing the 100-mile wilderness! Despite a very muddy trail, we enjoyed good swimming, some amazing views, and a few unique adventures. Yesterday we found ourselves shimmying across a handline (think Army commericals) over a raging river that was otherwise impassable (Emily has the rope burn to prove it). Later in the day, a detour around another water crossing took us 2 miles away from the trail.
Fellow hikers have been both interesting and incredibly friendly. Two northbounders who live near the trail have passed along phone numbers and welcomed us into their homes when we get farther south. On the trail, hikers acquire a trailname, often based on experiences or quirks they may have. David is now "Chomp," a result of his wolf encounter in Alaska and also reflective of his ravenous appetite (yes, already) and Emily has kept "Half Full" from her section hike in 2002, which resulted from an overly optimistic attitude about weather (she swears it is always clearing up).
We are finding our trail legs and creating a routine, one that involves lemonade at each lunch and candy bar each afternoon. This life is quickly becoming the norm and are looking forward to the miles ahead (and BBQ tonight in town!).
Fellow hikers have been both interesting and incredibly friendly. Two northbounders who live near the trail have passed along phone numbers and welcomed us into their homes when we get farther south. On the trail, hikers acquire a trailname, often based on experiences or quirks they may have. David is now "Chomp," a result of his wolf encounter in Alaska and also reflective of his ravenous appetite (yes, already) and Emily has kept "Half Full" from her section hike in 2002, which resulted from an overly optimistic attitude about weather (she swears it is always clearing up).
We are finding our trail legs and creating a routine, one that involves lemonade at each lunch and candy bar each afternoon. This life is quickly becoming the norm and are looking forward to the miles ahead (and BBQ tonight in town!).
Hope the BBQ and TV in Monson were a good break from the weather. Steve and I had a wonderful time with you at Baxter and greatly appreciated seeing you start your journey southward. Stay dry and avoid wild animals! Love, Mom
ReplyDeleteSounds like your spirits are high despite the weather! Keep up the good work. I look forward to hearing about more animal encounters from Chomp and Half Full. Heath wants to know how many squirrels you've roasted so far!
ReplyDeleteForecast Analyst Sean LaBrie
p.s. My self proclaimed work name this week is Morning Grump. Oh and I'll be hiking Katahdin this Thursday with a Baxter rookie.
It's great hearing about your adventures...can't wait to hear more. Think of you both often!!! Miss you!
ReplyDeleteThe big question is - how is the beard filling in? Good reading your update. Happy Hiking!
ReplyDelete