Oh, this rain is really getting to me. Let’s be real, a sprinkle or two is bearable. But constant pitter-patter on my tent all night long, isn’t going to motivate me up and out of my cocoon! From the looks of the shelter and the others, no one was moving really fast today.

After packing, I needed to refill on water. The boys sent me down the hillside for the best water on the AT. They were not mistaken. And right now, I really needed something to be excited about. I started up the rocky climb to Spaulding Mountain. It’s not an understatement that this terrain looks pretty much the same. Rocky, muddy and lots of green moss and pines. Oh, and every mushroom under the sun. When I made it to the ridge there was a sign Spaulding Mountain 150 yards up the granite rock staircase. I may have bit, but being it was drizzling, there was little to no chance of any significant view.

I ran into some young bucks headed Sobo and we talked for a bit, admiring about the only view I’ve seen this past week. We marveled at how fast the weather changes around here from downright miserable to a glimmer of hope. It lasted long enough for me to take a picture, and just like that, the rain returned!

I bundled up, back in my rain jacket and headed down the trail. I was skipping through the mud puddles when I ran into a gaggle of women. Nine of them, to be exact. All from Maine. They were out on a day hike in this weather. Truly Mainers! They are definitely a different breed! We talked for a bit and they moussed up the trail to their exit strategy, Sugarloaf Mountain and back to their condo! Condo, seriously? Why aren’t I hiking with them?

Today was a pretty tough day. God and I had many conversations about this trail. I’m not one to quit, it’s just not in my vocabulary, but I’m about done with this weather and all these rocks. It’s one thing when you are climbing over a few to get around a headland or a bunch of trees, but this constantly watching your every step and wondering if your knees are going to perform or buckle underneath you, is really taking a toll on me. What I’m trying to say is, if any of you are my friends and I ever mention to you that I want to hike the AT again, don’t let me! It is cruel and unusual punishment! And by no means is it fun. Fun is hiking the west coast trails where there is sunshine and groomed ribbons of dirt, where birds sing and the stars shine. I haven’t seen a single star while I’ve been here. I didn’t even see the Super Blue Moon because, you guessed it, it was raining! I’m sorry but this has just been a very trying day and I’m rethinking this commitment of mine.

My dearest friend Sally recommended a book “The Giver of Stars.” One thing it kept repeating was “there’s always a way out.” I’m imagining a way that is kinder and gentler, a flatter and more forgiving route. If I find that, I’ll let you know. But for now, I’ll keep hiking and keep praying, and trusting that the Lord will not forsake me or ever leave me. We are truly in this together! And then I made it to this stunning meadow- Crocker Cirque. Not too shabby for a nights rest.

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.””
‭‭Deuteronomy‬ ‭31‬:‭8‬ ‭