OmPi's Adventures

The first 4 miles went by so quickly we were all shocked when we got bottle necked at the water source. If only the whole trail were so easy,  but without the hard work you never get the view from the top. Anyway it was good to have an easy start as we had a pretty intense hike ahead. Just before reaching this difficult stretch on a back road in the middle of the NC mountains we  came across some Trail Magic.

A gentleman had all sorts of fresh fruit, coffee, OJ along with homemade cookies. Come to find out he does this 3 times a week for about 2 months a year during major hiking season over the last 4 years. It's still amazing to me that people will take time (45 minute drive) to help people they don't know. When I asked him he shared with me that he does it out of boredom but I suspect a nagging wife and this is his freedom. Lol.

The hike to the fire tower was basically straight up and a rock scramble but the view from the top made the struggle  worth it. It also marked the 100th mile on the AppalachianTrail, big milestone! As I continued my hike it has occurred to me that I am starting to develop my trail legs. I am moving faster with less pain and recovering more quickly.

When I arrive at camp I discover it is Freefall's 21st birthday. I've heard of him early on the trail and the story about how he fell out of his hammock on the first night which is where he got his name. He's a cool kid who saw the movie WILD and was sparked to hike the AT. He started a little under prepared but which of us didn't?

The hiker bubble that I've been hiking with includes the Royal Couple (Simon and Sarah), Sarah and her dog Isla, Bojangels, Spink and their dogs (Stella and Baxter), Freefall, Charcoal and a few others. It's been nice seeing familiar faces at camp every night. We are all running into Franklin tomorrow for a resupply and to get Freefall his first legal beer.

Tonight ended as many do around the camp fire laughing and talking. It's amazing the community and friendships you build in just a few weeks. As I write this I reflect on the statistics that say 75% of us won't make it, who will it be? I love all these guys and want to see them atop Mt. Katahdin with me. Hopefully we are the top 25% and just happened to find each other early. The fire is smoldering, it's well past hiker midnight. Much love to all.

OmPi ( ॐ π )