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Saturday, March 20, 2010

March 20 - 12.2 / 42.9 miles

Last night was a rough night in the hostel. For some reason I was unable to stay asleep. I woke up this morning around 6:30. Around 7:45, breakfast was ready. It was pancakes and strawberries, oranges, and a scrambled egg omelet concoction. It was so good.

After breakfast, Clark and Stuart, son of Matthew Griswold (sorry Mr. Griswold wanted a shout out), met us at Neels Gap. We began our hike around 9:30ish. One of our biggest climbs was right at first over Levelland Mtn. We had a few great vista views which I plan to get posted sometime.

After having lunch at Tesnatee Gap, we made it to Hogpen Gap. To our amazement we were treated to some more trail magic. This time it hot dogs, slim jims, chips, peanuts, and soft drinks. I was told I had to take two hot dogs. So, I made sure I did. One to eat right then and one was smushed into my pack for dinner. I will say if you ever want somethimg to do on a Sat or Sun; go serve free food to hikers. It is amazing how far the small little things like that go. It is also a great way to hear the stories straight from the hikers. My dad and are already planning on it.

After the trail magic, we finished our last 5.8 miles to Poplar Stamp Gap. We set up here, but the water isn't as close as we thought. Stuart and I walked about a half mile to fill up my bucket to share with everyone. However, after dinner, Clark spilled most of it. Oh well, we'll make it until tomorrow

Clark and Stuart did well, but I think it was an eye opener for them to get out here and hike 12+ miles in a day. Stuart even passed out for an hour after getting warm food in his body. He hid in his tent without telling anyone. Today I felt great, but I am getting a sore right knee when coming down hills.

Wrapping up the night sitting, I am around the fire with Nora (once Danger Mouse but now back to undecided of what she wants to go by), Jake (now Stickerbush), Will (Dark Star), Clark (no trail name yet), and Stuart (Sleepy Pizza). I'll let Stuart explain.

Go look at the stars tonight and realize the goodness we have. Also keep the posts/comments coming. I enjoy reading them at night.

Good night, friends.

7 comments:

  1. Hey Brian.......Great to hear your pack is much lighter but.............after reading about your "food Angels" I am afraid you may have gained all that your pack lost!

    Rex

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  2. I'm glad things are going so well. Take care of your right knee!

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  3. Brian, so good to hear from you and the guys! We are Will's grandparents in Statesville NC. Take care and watch out for each other. Keeping you in our prayers.
    Mary and Eddie Kirk

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  4. Use those poles to brake the downhills. What about your trail name? Got one yet?

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  5. I have a more technical question: How do you write all the stuff on your blog? Do you have a laptop with you (which I cannot believe)? Good hike.

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  6. Brian, take care of that knee - no PT on the trail. and BTW - Ms. Tweedie wants a shout out, too! Can't wait to hear the trail tales from Stuart. Hope to meet you up the way in a bit. What will my trail name be? All best, Tweedie

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  7. Hey you guys
    Im Wills Aunt Rhonda Rexs sister. You guys are doing great. I am so glad we can keep up with where you are and whats going on . Tell will i love hoim . You two BE careful

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