May 14
Today is Susan's birthday. I went to sleep thinking about, and I woke up thinking about it. My plan was to pack and leave my campsite early, and hike out of the gap and up onto the next mountain to surprise her with a phone call. I put my plan into motion, leaving before 7 am and climbing hard to get a signal before she would leave for work. My plan was sound, but a phone signal never did develop. I spent the rest of the day trying again and again, but without success.
My second plan was to push into Hot Springs and make a call tonight. It just didn't happen. I ran out of water and steam by mid afternoon and finally had to give in and set up camp.
In other ways the day was fairly uneventful. There were no scenic views or outstanding experiences to make note of. It was just a day to hike. I've heard this kind of trail described as Mud (meaning "meaningless ups and downs"). Views or not, it felt good to be on it.
I did see another snake on the trail. It was laying in wait along the side, hoping for a little mouse or critter to come running past. Good thing I had my shoes on. I bet my big toe would have made a great snack.
I continue to hike alone. Today I only met two hikers who passed me swiftly by. I am clearly out of the main stream of thru hikers. There are a few late starting college students, but most older hikers have gone on before me. I am enjoying the solitude, but it feels funny to pull up and camp alone. I'm looking forward to Hot Springs tomorrow in the hope of connecting with other hikers.
Today I was thinking about my friend Don, from Riverwood. He wanted me to think about Galatians 6:2. Great verse. When I get back I'll share some of my thoughts with him.
Goodnight, Susan. Happy birthday! Goodnight all.
Today is Susan's birthday. I went to sleep thinking about, and I woke up thinking about it. My plan was to pack and leave my campsite early, and hike out of the gap and up onto the next mountain to surprise her with a phone call. I put my plan into motion, leaving before 7 am and climbing hard to get a signal before she would leave for work. My plan was sound, but a phone signal never did develop. I spent the rest of the day trying again and again, but without success.
My second plan was to push into Hot Springs and make a call tonight. It just didn't happen. I ran out of water and steam by mid afternoon and finally had to give in and set up camp.
In other ways the day was fairly uneventful. There were no scenic views or outstanding experiences to make note of. It was just a day to hike. I've heard this kind of trail described as Mud (meaning "meaningless ups and downs"). Views or not, it felt good to be on it.
I did see another snake on the trail. It was laying in wait along the side, hoping for a little mouse or critter to come running past. Good thing I had my shoes on. I bet my big toe would have made a great snack.
I continue to hike alone. Today I only met two hikers who passed me swiftly by. I am clearly out of the main stream of thru hikers. There are a few late starting college students, but most older hikers have gone on before me. I am enjoying the solitude, but it feels funny to pull up and camp alone. I'm looking forward to Hot Springs tomorrow in the hope of connecting with other hikers.
Today I was thinking about my friend Don, from Riverwood. He wanted me to think about Galatians 6:2. Great verse. When I get back I'll share some of my thoughts with him.
Goodnight, Susan. Happy birthday! Goodnight all.
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