We had a little visitor last night. I stayed in my tent near the shelter. One of the biggest problems with shelters are that hikers hang their food bags. Just like Yosemite Bears that know what an ice chest provides, AT Bears are also keen on the fact that hanging bags have treats in them! Pop Tarts, Candy Bars, Tuna Packets and much more, are fair game. So once everyone was tucked into their tents or snuggled in the shelter, Mr. Bear made his rounds. He was loud and he was big! Luckily, no food bags were taken, this time but he gave it a good try.

After all the ruckus, I finally fell to sleep. Oh and what a good sleep I had. I can’t remember the last time I had a dream, but they were pretty darn vivid last night. I was up with the birds. Drank my coffee, packed up and nodded ado to my camping mates.

Today was a big day. The first bit of business was visiting a well known star of the trail.. The Dover Oak, the largest oak tree on the AT, is on the east side of the West Dover Road. The tree is estimated at over 300 years old, and has a diameter of approximately six feet. As I was admiring this majestic beauty, Bear came by and took my picture. I pale in comparison to this giant!

Up ahead was glorious pastures that gave great views of the surrounding hillsides. I re-entered the forest briefly and within a mile, it opened up to a swamp land. Fortunately there was an amazing boardwalk constructed that elevated me and everyone else above the wetlands. It went on for more than a mile. Easy flat walking. What a concept!

As I exited, the infamous train station was ahead. Well not really a station per de, but a bench and train tracks. Norman sat for awhile, waiting for the train. I wasn’t sure if he was hoping to go to NYC or Wassaic? No train arrived so we carried on.

Next exciting thing that happened was….drum roll please, I left NY and entered Connecticut. I had a climb up and over a few fences first, much like the illegals coming in America, but I made it. No one detained me, no immigration agents waiting, not even a stamp on my AT Passport. Just me crossing the billboard that said “Welcome to Connecticut- Gateway to New England”.

I have decided that I love Connecticut. There was a sharp difference once I walked through their pearly gates. The trail is tended, the rocks are removed, and the ferns are somehow greener here. I’m not sure but I’m thinking the next 51.7 miles of trail will be like walking on air. Okay, maybe not, but I am as excited as I can be once I saw the trail improvements. Have you ever driven on California Roads, Freeways and when you cross over to another state like Nevada, all the potholes are gone. That’s what it’s like. It’s a stark difference from NY to Connecticut. I think I’ll just stay here.

There was a nice climb out of the fen grotto but it would go up, and then level out. Just enough time for me to catch my breath. Then up again. These volunteers really know how to make this hiker happy. I made it to the top of Ten Mile Hill when I heard a bunch of boys singing and celebrating as they made it to the top also. They were coming from the north, headed southbound and we intersected each other.

There was eight or more of them from a Jewish Synagogue out for an overnighter. This was impressive. These boys didn’t have the ultralight packs, but rather had school backpacks with sleeping bags tied around their waists or propped under their arms. And you know what? It didn’t matter. They were going out for an adventure and having a grand time. We talked for a bit, told them where the water sources were and they carried on. What a fun night they will have.

The trail led down to Ten Mile River and into Kent. A very very small community with a local store and restaurant. I stopped in and devoured a bag of tortilla chips, guacamole, two apples, a block of cheese that I’ll save for later and a pint of Pistachio Ice Cream. Yep, that’s how I roll. Oh, and a Sparkling Water. I feasted for an hour or so and talked to several hikers. We all gorged ourselves on junk food and we’re happy as clams. Finally around 6pm, I waddled back to the trail.

Another day on the trail. Today was like no other day. Highs all day long, and much to see. What was perfectly culminated was my phone call to Dad wishing him a wonderful Father’s Day. I am so blessed to have him in my life. My Dad has been the guidance that I needed when I was unsure what to do next. He has been the one and only man Mom truly loved, and he loved her immeasurably. I have learned so much from this man and am so grateful and thankful for his kindness. Dad, you are the greatest father a daughter could ever ask for. I love you more and more everyday. Promise to stay healthy and walk the dog. Buddy needs it and so do you. I love you always. Happy Fathers Day!