I am back on the trail. Hallelujah! My friend Bodie picked me up with coffee and a big smile. She drove me north so I could makeup some miles that I missed during my hiatus. The day was warm and the trail was dusty. But I was back out to finish what I started and God was on my side.

I hit the trail at 8:30am. Today I was slackpacking so my bag was light, my feet were nimble, even with a brace wrapped around it. I figured it was insurance for my first day back. My rash is growing, but only underneath my right armpit. Ends up that Bodie’s Mom is severely allergic to all things poison oak, ivy and sumac . So now I have super duper ointment that kills anything poison on my body. Thank you Bodie’s Mom.

This mornings hike was nice. There were lots of trees shading the trail, pines, oaks and maples. The first mile I saw this crazy looking caterpillar. I’ve never seen one like this. It was neon green with two black spots on the back of its head. And boy oh boy, it was big! Like half the size of my shoe. I didn’t want to touch it since it had a pre-determined path it set, and moving really fast for a caterpillar. It was, quite unique. Something like the baby giraffe without spots.

It was extremely dusty on the trail. No rain, no water and the trees are thinking it’s Fall. There were some Maples that already turned red. Quite a few leaves had dropped to the ground. I felt like a kid who raked up all the leaves and then jumped in the pile. It was too much fun stomping through them!

As I was heading up the hill, I heard someone calling my name. Geisha Girl, is that you? I turned around and saw Billy Goat. I met him the first night I left Harpers Ferry. We stopped and chatted for quite awhile. We both were talking about how lonely it was on the trail. There’s no one left. I mentioned to him that Reset was still headed southbound. He has been trying to catch up with her for the past week. I shared her number with him and knew they would be matched in hiking ability. He took off and up the trail he went in search of Reset, and a hiking partner.

I turned onto the Blue Blaze and climbed up to the shelter for lunch. There were a couple of section hikers that were behind me and we all had lunch together. They too were slackpacking. They told me that they have been having a couple of elderly women drive their car and park it at the their planned end point. It worked out great until one afternoon, the car wasn’t there. Slackpacking, typically you don’t bring anything for overnight use. So once at their destination, and no vehicle, they started collecting fire wood to keep warm for the evening. Did they steal the car, crash it or what? Ends up there was an accident that blocked the roadway so they were two hours late. I could only imagine what was going on in their heads. All the scenarios of why their car wasn’t parked at the trailhead. And to think, they didn’t even have the ladies real names. We are so trusting out here.

They left before me and I hung out admiring the peace and solitude. There is such a difference between being lonely and embracing the solitude that, to me, is never loneliness. No others were stopping by but the butterflies and bees. After 1pm, I headed back down the trail.

Today I was walking on the Blue Ridgeline that follows the Blue Ridge Parkway. It was much like the Shenandoah’s with groomed trails and moderate climbs and descents. As I meandered down, there was a sign that said stay on the trail as we were walking through private property. To the east and west were huge ranches and farmlands with manicured grasses and bales of hay. It was quintessential Virginia Rolling Hills.

I crossed over many dry creeks, only two in fourteen miles had water trickling. They really need some rain! In the east, no one has sprinklers since Mother Nature supplies all the water they require. Except for this year. Things are still green but its not lush and green.

I started hearing the Highway and walked across several country roads. With less than a mile to go, I met up with a swarm of gnats. I really don’t like gnats. They just swarm around your face breathing in the CO2 that I was expelling. Then for no good reason, one decides to fly into my mouth. Yuck, I start to spit it out but the darn thing went down my throat. No way! I grab something to drink and sucked down my last drop off water. I could still feel that gnat in the back of my throat. I started coughing, spitting and gagging hoping to get him, her or it, out of my throat. That gnat has somehow decided that it’s quite happy inside my nice warm and mucous lined mouth. And that’s where it stayed until I arrived at a Gas Station some 20 minutes later. I grabbed an Iced Tea and finished it up. That gnat is now in my belly, hopefully not flying around. Darn Gnats!

I made it back to Motel 8 and took a shower, rinsed off all the dust, dirt and grim I had on me. My Poison Ivy seems to get a bit itchy when I’m hot and sweaty so the shower helped to stop that. I doused more lotions and potions on, along with the magic ointment that Bodie’s Mom parted with. Awe, much better.

It sure was nice being back out there again, and finishing up what me and my Lord started. A few more miles to go and McAfee Knob will be in my sights. I’m going to take it slow, enjoying my last few days on the trail. It’s hard to believe that I’ll be done by this weekend. Bittersweet but incredible memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Sometimes you just have to ask God what He’s up to? This has been the most interesting and intriguing moment off trail. I had all sorts of concerns about returning to the Appalachian Trail this year. The fact that I was going to be away from home for 3-4 months is harder and harder the older I become. I miss my husband and family more than ever. I feel disconnected from my church family, not being present for Debbie Carapiet, the Heart & Soul of Bayside Cafe and Greg Weisman, Leader of Bayside Adventure Sports for their years of service and now, retirement celebrations, were disappointing to say the least. These two were the most influential leaders to me, in my church family. It is where I found community, where I have served for close to 25 years, and where my relationship with Jesus grew immensely.

And here I sit for three days contemplating what this has been about? I know part of what the Lord intended for me was stillness. But how did He plan for this to transpire? About 2-3 weeks ago, Bodhie, a thru-hiker I met last year, ends up dialing me by mistake. Well I know nothing is by coincidence. So I text her and told her I’m back on trail and heading south from Harpers Ferry. Ends up that Bodhie lives just outside Roanoke, Virginia. Get this, she is right around the corner from where I am right now in Lexington.

Bodhie finishes church and picks me up. We get caught up and spend the afternoon together. This is exactly what Jesus had intended all along. How beautifully orchestrated is that! My Lord wanted me to spend this final week on the trail, filled with love and gratitude, as a reminder of what I have experienced, both this year and last.

Such a lovely and sometimes wild and crazy ride I have had on the East Coast. This trail is more than just a ribbon of dirt but rather a conduit to life! The Lord that I love and praise has taught me more in the past three plus months about acceptance of where I am. It doesn’t matter what the weather is, how much mud you trek through or if the rain is ever going to stop. Now I am absolutely certain that whatever circumstance I am dealing with, there is always a way to get through. When I focus on the problem rather than looking to Jesus, I get sidetracked and derailed. Weather changes, mud dries up and the sun comes out! I’ll bet my life on that.

Once I flipped and started hiking southbound, the trail was clear of any major obstacles. I was relying on my own abilities and that’s when pride takes ahold. The trail was starting to get a bit more technical, with steeper climbs and boulders, rocks and slate. On my way down Three Ridges, I was full of myself, and bam! I stepped off trail and down I went, rolling in a field of Poison Ivy. Ends up I rolled my ankle, which I didn’t really think much of. Yet, it was a big reminder that pride comes before the fall. And it slapped me upside the head!

Needless to say, a couple of days to regroup is what I needed. I’m all ears, and once again, my Lord has demonstrated an abundance of mercy and grace. I have only small patches of Poison Ivy breakouts, and my ankle is healing quicker than ever. I’ll be heading back to the trail after Labor Day. It’s such a good reminder to keep my focus on God alone, and not the destination.

Looking forward, I vacillate with emotions and realize that this truly has been a team effort. Without Jesus, I wouldn’t be here. So many people I have met on the trail are back home. Many completed their journeys, others lost interest while some had injuries that prevented them from finishing their goal. Yet, here we are, so close to completing what we started last year. Knowing that I have a partner makes all the difference, and not just any partner. My precious Lord planned this, executed it and walked every step with me. There were many falls along the way, too many times I yelled in frustration, yet He always picked me up and gave me the strength and endurance to continue on. What an incredible and wonderful partner my God, truly is!

We are getting so close to finishing this little jaunt. I woke up at 6am and Norman was up too. I must have rolled over too many times last night because poor little monkey was on the floor. Sorry Norman. He’s safer sleeping in the tent! No long drop offs, but at least he landed square on my mat.

My ride arrived at 7am. South Star picked me up and took me to breakfast. We ate at Cracker Barrel which is a big deal on the East Coast. They finally made it out West, a few years ago. I ordered eggs, bacon and pancakes, and a cup of tea. After breakfast South Star took me back to the trail.

Oh my, this backpack of mine weighs too much! I have five days of food and many snacks to keep me going. I seem to be so hungry these days. It would be interesting to figure out how many calories I’m consuming and how many I’m burning. I think the burn is ahead. I never seem to be full. Enjoy it while I can, because endless eating must stop really soon.

I hiked off into the forest and was ready to start climbing. A few of the hikers from Stanimals mentioned a Blue Trail called Mau-Har Trail. It bisects the AT and passes a few waterfalls. When I arrived at the trailhead, there was a couple who were coming back from Mau-Har. Because there hasn’t been any significant rain, the waterfalls were not flowing. That sealed the deal. I’ll climb, check out the views and stay on the Appalachian Trail. And I’m so glad I did.

The climb was steep with great views up the Three Ridges. There were rock ledges that I’m so familiar with. About halfway, I turned to the right and had a view of the entire Shenandoah Valley below. I stopped and talked to the locals. There were a few vineyards or hop growing fields that were the size of Napa Wineries. They told me wine is produced here but homegrown breweries are big business. It’s hard to tell from up here, but whatever it was, hops or grapes, it was quite the production.

I continued up Three Ridges and made it to the top. There was a bit of a view north but mostly overgrown with trees blocking the vista. There were a few dispersed camping sites so I had lunch. Salami and Triscuits, leftovers from the Shenandoah’s. Once again, I was the solo hiker on the beginning of Labor Day Weekend. Maybe people will start showing up.

I headed down off Three Ridges and the rocks and boulders were back. Darn it anyhow. I was hoping I could put that in the rear view mirror. No such luck. I slid down one rock and another without much fanfare. Thank goodness. But then, I have no idea what happened, but I somehow stepped off the trail and rolled down 10’ in a bunch of poison Ivy. You’ve got to be kidding me? Nope, that’s the honest to Gods truth! I am super sensitive to Poison Oak so I can only imagine what this is going to do to me.

There was a Shelter about three miles down the trail with water. I headed down there and dropped my pack. I immediately started washing my legs, arms and face off with my trusty bandana. It felt so good, and I’m praying that the evil twin sister of Poison Oak, Ivy, is much less toxic and I won’t turn into a big red weeping rash! I started thinking what else I could do?

I opened my app and found a shuttle driver nearby and considered calling for a ride to town so I could bathe properly. No answer so I texted him. Then my phone service went to SOS mode. That’s what happens when I don’t have T-Mobile or any other carrier that they share towers with. I kept my phone on in case my service came back on. Within a couple of hours, I had service again.

Derrick, the Shuttle Driver, called me and left a text. He could pick me up or have his associate, at Montebello Country Store. Super! All I need to do is climb 3000’ over Priest to Spy Rock. This is put my head down and climb. It was the steepest climb this side of New Hampshire and Vermont. I had no choice so up and over I went.

Once I arrived at Spy Rock Road, it’s a closed forest service road. My driver can’t access this so I walked down 1.9 bonus miles to Montebello Store. I barely made it in time. The store closes at 6pm and I arrived at 5:58pm. I grabbed some Iced Tea and Good & Plenty. It’s one of my favorite candies and hard to find these days.

Dennis showed up within minutes. He helps Derrick with shuttles. Dennis is a retired State Trooper so we had much to talk about. He recommended heading to Lexington rather than Buena Vista. I’m all ears. I don’t know the area so you tell me. There’s a Walmart and tons of Hotels. Perfect, sounds like a hiker friendly place. He stopped at Walmart so I could purchase all my Poison Ivy potions and ointments, and then took me to the Hotel across the street.

This is NOT what I was planning to do. But it’s what I need to do, if I want to keep from breaking out in a full-body rash. So here I am with a little over 100 miles to go sitting in a Hotel. I calculated my distance and being I’ve put in extra miles in the Shenandoah’s, I’m still on track. All I need to do is continue 15 miles a day. So that’s what happened today, one calculated risk after another! Thank you Lord for softening my fall and helping me find my way to cleanse and renew myself. There’s always a way through, with you.

No bear visited last night. Not even a mouse. But the wind was blowing. I was up, packed and on the trail by first sign of daylight. However, in the bottom of the canyon, that was 7am.

The trail was cool, breeze blowing, horsetail clouds and blue skies. I wound back and forth from east side to west side, still heading southerly. I saw my morning deers, lots of quiet bushy tailed squirrels and a few ravens. The trees were so tall in places, reaching towards the endless sky.

This is my last day in the Shenandoah’s. I’m going to miss this place. The thin ribbon of dirt has been so well-groomed, the inclines and declines so mild, and the shale, boulders and roots have been little to non-visible. We’ll at least not on the trail or hindering my ever so short steps.

There were quite a few times I crossed the road, which in the morning was really quiet. I hardly saw any cars at all. I walked to RipRap Overlook. It faced the west and the valley, farmlands and city below. It was breathtaking. Almost as though the hand of God wiped away the mountains and trees, and made a huge basin below. It went on for miles and miles.

On the east side, there was forest, all wilderness and nothing that resembled civilization. It was, for the most part, where I came from. The trail is hidden, tucked deeply into the trees and brush so you cannot see it. There were many times I could only look at the trees that surrounded me and not much more. It is thick and dense woodlands, as far as the mind could imagine.

Once I exited the Shenandoah Ranger Station and Southern Terminus, I dropped off my permit and headed to town. George mailed me my last resupply box to Waynesboro so off I went. A nice lady with her golden retriever picked me up and took me to the post office. Door to door service. I dropped my pack and walked in. I told the gal behind the counter I was expecting a package, General Delivery. You’re a hiker! Is it that obvious or did my smell give me away? I picked up my box and out the door I went, smell and all.

Some of the hikers I met on trail mentioned Stanimal’s Hostel in Waynesboro. It’s an unique place with hikers and others looking for a bed. After getting my box, I walked the .8 miles to the Hostel.

I was greeted by Squirrel and South Star. Squirrel injured himself a month or so ago and now is in charge of checking us hikers in. He gave me the ten cent tour, showing me the laundry room, common areas, bathrooms, and bunk rooms. It is very clean and the kitchen area organized. There’s definitely a woman that takes care of this place!

South star invited me and Squirrel to lunch next door. It’s a whole in the wall with women and men playing cards and games. There is an option of hot dogs, chili, chicken noodle soup and sloppy joes. I had chili dog and a cup of watermelon. And an ice cold Dr. Pepper. It was pretty darn good.

Then I headed back to Stanimals and took care of my domestic duty’s. Laundry, Shower and Resupply. By the afternoon, I made it to Walmart and purchased steak, vegetables and beer for tonight’s Bar-B-Que. one of the hikers Goose was cooking. He marinated my steak and I took care of the grilled vegetables. Such a feast.

After dinner, we sat around and talked about the trail, where we are headed and what to expect. Now that I’m out of the Shenandoah’s, the terrain gets serious again. Priest is coming up and it’s a climb! I decided to get to bed early and was in my bunk and fast asleep by 9pm. Thank you Lord for giving me peace in what the future will bring. You have prepared me and I will always place my faith in you.

Once I laid down to sleep last night, I tossed and turned for a bit. Around 1-2am, I rolled over for the fifth or sixth time and heard a pop on my right knee. I stretched my leg out and for the first time in a month, it didn’t hurt. God, did you just give me a supernatural adjustment on my knee? I would know for sure once I started hiking in the morning.

The sunrise was beautiful with an orange and pink hue. I walked over to the ledge and just admired the quiet and peacefulness of the morning, praising the Lord for this day ahead. I started packing up and that’s when I realized my knee wasn’t hurting me. I wonder sometimes if our sweet Lord wants us to verbalize our needs more often? Does He want me to ask for prayer, letting others have the opportunity to pray over me or each other? I have to think that He does. Because my knee is healed! I have been hobbling on this knee since the 100 Mile Wilderness and as soon as I asked for prayer, it’s miraculously healed. Thank you my sweet Jesus!

Today was all about finding water. My stealth camp was lovely but there was no water nearby. The College Students told me they stopped at the Ranger Station at the bottom of the gap. That’s where I’m headed. It’s about three miles and I have a half liter. It was cool and breezy this morning. Another great day on the trail. I made it to the Ranger Station, found the Maintenance Guy and he pointed me to the hand pump. He said I should let it flow for a bit before I fill up. Can do. The other bonus was a trash bin so I was able to get rid of all my garbage. That’s a win-win.

I planned to hike to the next shelter and have my morning snack. That was five miles with no major ups or downs. The forest was a bit damp from the evening sprinkle but didn’t get me wet at all. I didn’t see anyone on the trail this morning. Just me and Norman and the Maintenance Guy. When I headed to the Shelter, I thought I might see someone but nope, no one at all. Most Shelters have Log Books so I pulled it out and started reading . To my surprise there was an entry last April from Airborne. I hiked with him last year and evidently he returned for round two. His real name is Tommy and he signed it with both trail and real name. He said I hope I run into some of my friends from last year. He was a super nice guy that I hiked with to the NOC, before Blue showed up. Such a small world of hikers. Gosh, that would’ve been great to see him again.

I continued and decided to push on to the Loft Mountain Wayside. They have a grill and shakes. That’d give me purpose to move a little faster. At this rate, I could have lunch at the grill and save my Triscuits and Salami for another day.

As I came around the bend, I heard power tools whacking away at the trail. Thank goodness. The BlackBerry bushes are alive and well and taking over the trail. I started wearing my wind jacket because my arms were getting sliced from the thorny bushes. I thanked the Volunteer and so appreciate his hard-work. He planned to do a two-mile section and he would be there all day. I shouldn’t complain too much because I have been eating blackberries for the past couple of days. They are ripe and ready for the picken!

There were quite a few vistas today, from both the east and the west side of the ridge lines. The AT crossed Skyline Drive maybe 10-12 times today. At least I was able to see everything the drivers could see and have shade from all the trees. The problem with road walking , which many of the hikers do, is you’re on black asphalt which is hot and there’s no shade. The trail is much nicer.

Once at the Wayside, I ordered a Grilled Chicken Salad with a Blackberry Shake. I love these shakes! It’s what all the locals drive into the Park for, or so they tell me. They are incredibly delicious. I stayed for an hour or so and talked to quite a few tourists. They come from all over to see this park. I talked with one couple from Belgium. They were visiting all the National Parks on the East Coast. That’s one heck of a road trip.

After lunch, I headed back out to finish up my day. I decided to go to Blackrock Hut because it was the only Shelter that had water! It was another six or so miles and now that my knee is feeling better, it wouldn’t be a problem. I saw a few more deer, which I just can’t get over how tame they are. Well at least they have no fear of us hikers., and honestly no predators in this park.

Blackrock was the culmination of my day. There was a 500’ climb if even that, and it had views to the east and west. It was a Shale Rock pile but once again, there was a cleared path that circumnavigated the peak. It was quite spectacular. The skies were much clearer today so the views were stunning.

I headed down and took the spur trail to Blackrock Hut. When I got down into the canyon, there was a gal in a hammock. She told me she saw a bear here at camp and was pretty darn excited. We talked for a bit and I headed over to the picnic table to eat. Cali-Roll showed up. I met him back in Connecticut and he too is Flip-Flopping. I was so happy to see him. We ran into each other several times in the north and I had never thought I’d see him again. He’s hiking Nobo from McAfee which is where I’m finishing. It was so much fun catching up and hearing about his hike.

What an incredible day it was indeed! I just can’t get over the fact that my knee is healed. Not just better but all better! What an incredible and wonderful God we have! It really reminds me how important it is to voice my requests, to ask for prayer and then to believe Jesus will work on my behalf. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and thankfulness. There He goes again. God being the Almighty God!

Biggest miles this trek to date! I finally broke 20 miles. Hurrah for me. And what a day it was. Norman kept me up all evening. Finally at midnight, I took a sleeping pill and off to la-la land I went. Lately I’ve been sleeping pretty darn good, so I’m not sure what happened. I woke up to low clouds and mist. That’s good hiking weather in my book.

Norman and I packed up after having coffee and biscotti with almond butter. Good stuff. The morning was just like most days in the Shenandoah’s. Quiet, peaceful and lots of deers. I talked with Ranger Sam and he said that some of the deer in the park are being fed by the campers. Oh my word. What possesses people to think that’s a good idea. Hence the reason these White-Tailed Deers I keep running into, are not afraid of me. They’re looking for a handout. Like what would you think you should feed them? Pop tarts, Jelly Belly’s, Hot Dogs? On a positive note, he said the bears are not a nuisance and stay away from the campgrounds. Ranger Sam told me they have never had a person, hiker or any other attacked or killed by a bear in their park. That’s good odds!

The terrain was little ups and little downs. I had quite a few vistas but with the clouds, there wasn’t much to gawk over. There was light precipitation but noting that measured up to anything. It just kept the bugs away and no flying gnats to contend with. Thank goodness! Blue and I would take turns walking up front because it seemed whoever was in the lead, got harassed senselessly by gnats. They would fly around your face and when they were done doing that, they would fly directly in your eye! They are the weirdest insects, and good for nothing! I know, that’s a bit extreme but honestly, what can you do with a gnat? Today it was a gnat-free zone. Just a little rain or wind and poof, gnat be gone.

I met a few section hikers today. Two older guys from Waynesboro, a nearby town, who were carrying a full gallon of water. The one guy called his wife and asked her to bring him water. That’s how dry it is around here. I passed a Shelter where the spring was dry and another Spring Cistern that was murky. But lucky for me, Shelter #2 had a flowing spring. When I arrived Big Daddy and his college friend Poppins were having lunch. After a bit, Big Daddy headed to the Spring and filled up my water bottle too. That was super nice, especially since the route was lined with Stinging Nettle. Ouch, that stuff is no fun!

As I moved along, I ran into a group of ten Freshmen from the local university on a weeklong backpacking trip. The leader told me there were 200 Freshman hiking this week. Here? No, she laughed. We spread them out over many locations. She said it’s their orientation so they meet others. Wow, what a great idea. Most of them looked happy but one gal told me she didn’t like hiking uphills. That could be a problem, since your typical day is either up or downhill, all day, everyday. Honestly, I don’t like going downhill. Uphill is much better for me and then the rolling polly flats are by far, my most favorite.

Being I covered twenty plus miles, the trees, plants and flora changed drastically. It started out much more forest-like but the further south and the lower I went, it was more like shrub, lots of flowers and oak trees. It’s definitely changing as I slowly leave the Shenandoah’s. I’m gonna be sad to venture away from this National Park. Now I understand why so many people flock to it. I can only imagine how beautiful it will be in full fall colors!

I really didn’t intend on going this far today. But I was feeling good and didn’t have anything else to do. When I think about it, what else is there to do but walk? I’m setting my sights on arriving at McAfee Knob by Sunday, September 10th. Now I’ve put it out there so I’m committed. Its 192.6 miles from tonight’s campsite. So 16-17 miles per day, no days off and I’ll be there. My only issue will be resupplying as that requires going to town. If I didn’t have to eat, I could bypass that, but I’m not sure that’s a solid plan. We’ll see. Just hope and pray I can keep this up and get er done. Outside of that, I would ask for prayers for my right knee. It’s a bit full these day. I’m not sure if I have a Bakers Cyst on the back of my knee or it’s just sore from the extra miles lately. Anyhow, me and my knee could use a little extra prayer.

There is something quite wonderful when you wake-up in a warm bed. I packed up my belongings, put Norman back in his rightful place, on my back and headed downstairs. Allison was up making coffee and I opened the refrigerator to retrieve my yogurt. A refrigerator! That’s another one of those things I’ve taken for granite. I cut up my Kiwi, had my yogurt and drank coffee with real half & half. Oh, the luxuries of a home, I so miss. I sat at a proper table and ate like a civilized person. The simple pleasures.

Allison was ready to get me back to the trail promptly at 7am. I love this woman! There’s no traffic in Luray, population of 4,831. It was started in 1812 by William Marye, a family descendant of Luray, France. I guess he couldn’t come up with a better name. Luray it is. Allison drove me back to the exact location she picked me up from. A purest at heart. We hugged, and I promised to let her know when I finished the trail.

My morning was wet. Yes, they had rain while I was sleeping. A significant amount because when the wind blew, rain fell from the trees. Everything was moist but not muddy! And the smell. Oh how I love the smell of the forest after a good rain. Especially when I’m tucked inside a nice warm home. I had a bit of a climb this morning, some 1500’ from the roadway. It was a very gradual incline over a few miles. Have I said that I love the Shenandoah’s! I remember thru-hikers bashing it. It’s so boring. There’s so many trees. You see the same vista time after time. I like boring, I love trees, and any vista is good in my book!

There was Little Stoney Man Lookout and Stoney Mountain 3972’, the highest point in the Shenandoah NP, but both were covered in clouds. Yet, the forest and the ferns were covered in dew and it seemed much more alive than the day prior. It’s amazing what a little bit of rainfall can do to perk up the environment.

I kept hearing cars above me. Skyline Drive, at times, parallels the Appalachian Trail. One funny thing is that the roadway has better views than the trail. I was nearly 100’ below the road and saw a man and woman taking pictures and gasping at what they were looking at. I could only imagine as I really couldn’t see much of anything with the overgrown brush. Ends up there was a Spur Trail that led up to the road. I did the extra bonus steps and sure enough, there was a spectacular view. Who would’ve thought? Crescent Rock Overlook was the first clearing and it was quite nice. In fact I could look back and see Stoney Mountain, so all was not lost.

A little before lunch, I made to to Skyland Resort. It’s a pretty nice spot and happens to have the largest logo I have seen for Virginia. “Virginia is for Lovers.” The Resort has a fine dining restaurant and brewery. It was a bit early, even for me, so I continued down the trail.

With the rain last night, I saw one of my favorite little creatures, the orange salamander. I was reading about a couple and their four kids who will become Triple Crowners this year. They will hike all three long distant trails in the US. One of the things they do to keep the kids occupied is play games. One day while they were hiking the AT, the counted over 200 Salamanders in one day. Can you imagine? I saw one, but he was the cutest little Salamander, maybe the size of my pinky.

My goal today was to get to Big Meadows CG and Lodge. It’s not much further and after all my rest and relaxation yesterday, I was ready to put in the miles. The terrain, at this point, was gentle with a couple of shale fields. The difference here is they don’t want you walking on the shale. Imagine that! So they cleared a path, that was relatively shale-free and all was good. No one got hurt, no slips or falls on sharp rocks, and before long I was on the other side.

I arrived at my intended destination with all limbs intact. The Lodge at Big Meadows is one of the most popular spots for tourists in the National Park, with rooms available by reservation. The restaurant at the lodge is a fancier option than the diner at the Wayside, and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is also a tap room at the lodge for the big kids. This sounds like my kind of place. I went inside and ordered a Chef Salad which was delicious. After my very late lunch, I decided to find myself a place to crash for the night. The Campground was a bit noisy for my comfort so I hoofed it and stealth camped a bit down trail. It looks like rain so I’m gonna get all cozy in my little tent and call it a day.

I’m a bit taken back when I realized that I’ve been on this trail for 100 days! Only by the grace of God have I been able to walk this distance. As my days get shorter and I’m nearing the end of this little jaunt, I become a bit overwhelmed. This has been much more challenging, both physically and mentally that I ever thought. The physical part may be attributed to the fact, I am getting older. I hate saying or even writing that, but my body is telling me that I’m not as young or as fit as I once was. The mental aspect has been toughest, much more so due to the extreme weather and environmental factors. Yet with all that being said, I cannot imagine not experiencing all that I have during these past 100 days. It will be etched in my mind for years to come and hopefully, encourages others to chase after whatever passions God places on their hearts. It’s well worth all the blood, sweat and tears, and I guarantee, you will thank your older self for it. God-willing, this girl who loves the Lord, will be completing this journey with strength, endurance, and a few stories to tell!

Early to bed and early to rise, doesn’t make me anymore wise. But it sure helps my body feel better. Today is a town day. George sent my resupply box to Luray and I was ready to take the afternoon off. I’ll have to play catch-up when I get on tomorrow but that’ll be easy enough.

Norman and I packed up and hit the trail around 7am. It was a nice morning with no one on the trail. I just don’t get it. I really thought I’d see more people, at least day hikers. It’s a weekend. Don’t people get out anymore? Did I miss something over these past few months? One thing is for sure, Fall is happening in Virginia. The leaves are turning yellow and they are covering the trail.

It was another easy day, little miles, little elevation and Little Rock’s! In the Shenandoah’s, instead of putting up wooden signs, they have concrete pillars. They are solid, I imagine no one will steal them and they will be there till the end of time. They still have White Blazes painted on trees every now and then, but these pillars are placed at every trailhead. And there’s a lot of trails in the Shenandoah’s.

I made it to the top of Pass Mountain which wasn’t much. It mostly consisted of a pile of mossy rocks with a view of Luray, but the trees blocked most of it. There are some big trees on this park. Huge pines, lots of Walnut and Oak Trees, some Laurel and lower brush. Unfortunately with the lack of rain, the ferns are curled up and dying. But that may all change. There is a forecast of a storm coming this way. Oh joy! It must’ve followed me from Maine.

I texted Allison from Open Arms Hostel and she had explicit directions as to where she would meet me. She is the sole owner and operator of the Hostel and has been doing this since 2015. I came out of the woods and crossed the highway. At least this time, it had Pedestrian Signs and painted crosswalks. I felt much safer, kind of.

Allison showed up right on time and took me immediately to the grocery store. She says all hikers have cravings for something when they get off trail. She knows us well. I bought some fruit, yogurt, sparkling water and IPA. The essentials.

We headed back to Open Arms, and I met the two dogs and two cats. It’s so nice to have a home to enjoy, even if it’s short lived. Allison showed me around, walked me to my private room and hooked me up with a hot shower. A shower is one of my favorite pleasures these days. Just hot water washing off the dirt and grime all over my body.

Ends up I had two packages. One was my expected resupply box and one was a padded envelope from my dear friend Gaye. Gaye boxed up a Spa Day for me! It had face masks, foot masks which I’ve never had before, dark chocolate, moisturizing lip balm and a couple of pages from a Devotional. Thank you for this gift of love. I stayed in my room and pampered myself.

The rest of the day I did nothing at all. It was just perfect. Allison did my laundry while I sat on the front porch and relaxed with the cat. Later in the afternoon, Allison had another hiker to pick up, so she dropped me off at the Mexican Restaurant. I had Carne Asada and Guacamole with Chips. After a bit, Allison came back and we went for Ice Cream. As far as I’m concerned, this day couldn’t have been any better.

Thank you Lord for rest and healing. Being Sunday, it was a wonderful day to rejoice in you and all that you have blessed me with. My Church was right here at Open Arms. It was rejuvenating, filled with hospitality, love, peace and rest for the soul. Just a perfect day on and off trail!

Have you ever heard a Circadian Cricket? Think about the average run of the mill cricket with an orchestra of a thousand! That is what serenades me to sleep, night after night. They are the loudest little body creature God created. It’s an amazing symphony at natures best or worse, depending on how you like cricket noise.

The morning light is much slower to rise here in the south. When I was in Maine, dawn was 5am. Here in Virginia, maybe 6:15 or so. So when I woke up at 5am, there was no urgency to get moving. It’s still dark. My new on the trail time is 7am. It works well especially since the terrain is so much nicer. No more days of walking around mud, tripping over rocks and roots. It’s smooth sailing, down the trail.

I still get some elevation but it’s spread out over the day with more miles to allow for gradual ascents and descents. I was off to find water. No real prospects nearby. I ran into a Trail Runner group and they were little to no help. So I moved along. I met these bikers and they stopped, emptied their water bottles and helped me out! Go bikers. They were from NoVa – Northern Virginia. About an hour or two later, I saw a campsite with only a backpack but no hikers. Within a minute or two, I met Mitch and his girlfriend. They had fresh living water in their hands. Hallelujah, it was right around the bend.

Sure enough, there was a pipe coming out of the mountain. And it was flowing. I cameled up immediately, meaning I drank one liter in minutes. I then, filled up my two Smart Water bottles giving me two liters. At this rate, who knows when I’ll find water again. I sat for a bit, ate a bar of wholesome goodness and carried on.

I heard poles clicking from behind and turned to find Mitch. Ends up Mitch is hiking to Roanoke, close to where I’m planning to finish. Great. We walked and talked for most the morning. He’s a Grad Student from Phoenix and earned his P.A. License. He’ll be moving to Washington D.C. with his girlfriend of 5 years. She works in D.C. for the Health Administration and they met in South Africa when they were in the Peace Corp. Sounds like a power couple to me. This is his first solo long distance hike, but he has backpacked in many places with friends and family.

We stopped at the Ledges, and had our lunch. This is Mitch’s first full day on the trail so we talked about goals and what he planned to do. He’s a smart kid and had planned on stopping at the first shelter for a total of 10 miles. Good plan. We hung out for a bit and then walked to the Blue Blaze for Gravel Springs Hut & Shelter. I nodded him farewell but as always, this is a narrow strip of trail and we will meet again.

I met another Nobo Section Hiker today named Polonia. She’s from Poland and told me her name is the Spanish version of Poland. She’s been doing section hikes each year from Georgia north. This year she plans to finish in Front Royal. She must be my age or maybe a bit older and was quite perturbed. She stayed in the same shelter that Mitch plans to stay at, Gravel Springs, but he hammocks. Ends up that during the night, a mouse or a legend of mice stole her bandana. When she got up in the morning, it had vanished. When she saw my bandana, it all came back and she had to vent. I’d be furious! My bandana serves many purposes from mosquito abatement to sweat retention to cleaning and wiping my body down. But one of the most important aspects of my bandana is the prayers and messages of encouragement written by many of my friends and family. It’s my most treasured possession. I hope those mice are making good use of her bandana.

I continued south towards Elkwallow Wayside. It’s another five miles down the road and has a camp store and grill with a good selection of snacks, burgers, sandwiches, soda, beer, and ice cream. I arrived and ordered a Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Onion Rings and a Blueberry Shake. Oh my, that hit the spot.

Now that I’m full with more than this gal really needed, I slowly got up and waddled down the trail. I had a little climb to get up to the Ridgeline, where I planned to camp for the night. I’m done with Shelters and after hearing about Polonia and her bandana, I’m going to stick to stealth camping.

I found a nice little place off the trail that will give me plenty of space to roam and options for my tent. Norman was quite happy and sprawled out as soon as we got settled. He doesn’t help much with camp set-up, but then he doesn’t really need to. I got this dialed and our camp is up and ready in less than five minutes. Now it’s time to rest and relax, thplan out our following day.

Another beautiful and wonderful day on the trail. Shenandoah’s are truly a splendid place to visit and hike. I expected much more people here being they say it one of those most visited National Parks on the East Coast. From talking to the locals, once you get into the park, deep inside the park, fewer people are here. The entrance both North and South see the gaggles of tourists. So here I am, all alone on this prime piece of real estate. Lucky for me. Just me and Norman and the thousand of crickets serenading me to sleep. Good night Norman, good night Lord, good night crickets, good night all…

Me and Norman had the Shelter all to ourselves last night. It’s like our private little place to call home for the night. I’m glad I was in the Shelter and not in my tent because we had rain! Yes, glorious, wondrous rainfall. It sounded like much more than it actually was. With the tin roof on the shelter, it magnified it tenfold. Yet when I ventured out, the ground was barely wet. Definitely not the same kind of rain I had up north, that’s for sure. This poor state of Virginia needs a downpour because they are starving for water!

Norman and I packed up and hit the trail. It was really quiet. Not a peep from a squirrel or a bird. I arrived at Manassas Gap and met a hiker, Mexican Mainer. She was so excited to see me. I wondered if I had met her before but apparently she was thrilled because I was a woman. She said all the hikers she’s been seeing are guys. I have to agree. Woman are definitely outnumbered out here, probable 4:1.

Me and Mexican Mainer, born in Tijuana and now resides in Maine, is finishing up her hike this year. She has a little over 400 miles to complete. She’ll end up in Pennsylvania. She told her husband she wouldn’t be coming home till she’s done. I think this is her 4th or 5th year. I totally understand. Once you get going, you want to do nothing but finish this beast, as I affectionately call the AT. We exchanged numbers and plan to keep in contact. You need a cheering squad when you hit the tough days and someone to rejoice with, when you’re done! I’ll be checking on ya.

I decided to go into Front Royal. I had done a few extra miles yesterday so it gave me spare time to relax. I asked the neighbor for a ride, John from the Pentagon. I figured he was safe. He took me into town on his way to work.

Front Royal loves hikers. I went straight to Mountain Trails Outdoor Store. Charlie Brown, as he calls himself hooked me up. There’s FREE laundry and showers in the back of the store. They have locking storage units for your backpacks, outlets to charge your devices and the brewery gives us 1/2 price beer. I love Front Royal. Talk about one stop shopping.

I washed my hiking outfit, socks and PJ’s, then took a shower and washed my hair. So my issue is most places don’t have conditioner and if I’m to wash my thick head of hair, I require conditioner to comb it when I’m done. Guess what? They had a big bottle of conditioner. What a happy camper I was!

Norman accidentally got locked up in the locker and I could tell, he wasn’t happy about it. His constant grin looked more like a glare! Oops, you are not an animal so I promptly removed him. He pouted for a bit until I introduced him to the Panda Bear. Panda Bear hiked the entire section of the Shenandoah NP. That’s a big deal because he is one big bear! Norman was relieved and grateful to be out of the cage and found forgiveness. Thank goodness. We still have over 200 miles left on this trail.

After having my salad and beer, I packed up my new clean clothes and Norman was happy again. We headed out, thanking Charlie Brown for the incredible gift of cleanliness. It is the small things that I miss the most. Shower or Bath, Flush Toliets and Running Water and clothes that don’t stink!

Charlie Brown told me there was a Trolley that will take me back to the trail. Wow, how much better does it get? I stopped at the local ice cream and coffee shop. I asked if I could get ice cream and coffee together? Heck yes, one shot or two? Two shots of espresso over a scoop of Coconut Chocolate and Almond bits. Oh my word, it was amazing.

I headed to the Town Square and here comes Christie, the Trolley Driver. She comes bouncing out of the Trolley to take her break and has the biggest grin on her face. Is she my lost sister? I love this joyful woman! Ends up she is the one who made the suggestion to add a stop at the AT Trailhead. The Trolley didn’t go there but hikers could really use this FREE service. Thank you Christie! I was back on trail lickity split.

So I take back the thing I wrote about yesterday. It is hot and humid. Oh no, I’m not complaining just stating the facts. Good thing I took that shower or I’d really be a stinky mess. Now I’m just half stinky but still a mess. I finished up the day and arrived at the shelter just north of the Shenandoah National Park boundary. Tomorrow I’ll be in the Shenney’s as they call it.

As Norman and I were getting comfortable, here comes Bol and her dog Douglas. She was looking for a place to relax for an hour or two. Well, you’ve come to the right place. We started chatting and it was like talking with a friend. We confided about all sorts of things, relationships, career choices, our faith. Bol is from Bulgaria and a very. talented tennis player and coach. She makes a living coaching clients on their game. Wow, have you thought about Pickleball? We had great conversation about who and what we desire to be, how to conduct ourselves, how the world views women, and how the Lord influences us. We spent most the afternoon together before she hiked back to her car. Gosh, I hope we meet again. What an incredible woman she is!

I have only one regret today and that is not being with my dear friend Debbie Carapiet. She is the heart and soul of Bayside Cafe and is having her final Appreciation Dinner for all us volunteers. Debbie is retiring and I have served under her leadership for 14 plus years. This woman is a prayer warrior like no other. She has a heart that never ceases, and love that overflows from her veins! Gosh I am going to miss her terribly but now she will have no excuses when I ask her to come play pickleball! Can’t wait to see you on the courts. I love you! And thank you again for my birthday cookie!

Sometimes I wonder if I am suppose to still be out here, on this trail. Then God blesses me with a day like today! Mexican Mainer, John from the Pentagon, Charlie Brown, Christie the Trolley Driver and then Bol with her dog Douglas. I am reminded that yes, in fact, I’m right where I need to be. Thank you Jesus for sending all these angels my way. You are such a faithful and wonderful God!