We used to go by our trail names - Brahma Bull and Sweet Potato - and those were the days we would sit atop our Thermarests after hiking 18.2 miles and agree with a Zen-like and dirty-fingernailed motion toward the trees that 'walking distance' was a relative term. Now that we shower regularly, brew coffee every morning using electricity, and are unable to confuse our names with either vegetables or animals, we know. Walking distance really is about half a mile.
Two young adventurists set out with probably too much gear and lots of moleskin to conquer their fears on a footpath from Georgia to Maine. Come the rain on bombproof tent, the unlaceable boot and the black fly; bring the mouseless shelter, the wifi-accessible trail town, the dry socks and the dog-friendly B&B; lo the blazing sunsets, the drinkable streams, the indifferent black bears and the breathtaking vistas: we are hiking the Appalachian Trail.
Quick Update: The hikers are already through the Smokies! They've hiked 11-15 miles a day through 8" of snow in some spots and are now at Davenport Gap. More to come...
9 comments:
Anonymous
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Hooray, Hooray for Sweet Potato and Bull! I've been wondering how they faired with all the crazy weather we've been having (and I knew they were probably getting snow). Let them know we're super proud of them and are always thinking of them. Thanks for the updates, Stacy. Zac and Martha
Hello Stacy. Thanks for keeping us all posted. I got "mail from the trail" from Betsy and it made my week. The envelope was all duct taped and she even drew a picture! I would love to send them something, how can I do that? Do you know when they will be in Damascus? My e-mail address is jeremymichelle@hotmail.com Thank you-Michelle Jackson
I feel like you guys are running the AT; every time I check up on you, you're so much farther along; Bets, I'm going to a Robinella concert tonight-it made me think of you. What are you guys doing without an iPod? Do you just make up songs and sing them while you're trekking up the ol' mountain? You guys should start an AT acapella group; Dust could do the bass, rhythm, Bets, you should write the lyrics and sing, really put that English major to work out there on the AT. Love you guys so much! -Rach
Hey you guys!!! Stacy, thanks again for making it possible for all of us to share the adventure!! Also, hope you had a good birthday. Papaw has told me in the past that we are descendants of Daniel Boone (I wonder). But that could explain your adventurous spirit, Betsy! The pictures are great--glad that beautiful Trail is enjoying being back at Hidden Valley. From what I hear , things are pretty good at Cleveland--as much as possible. Thinking of you so often and praying for your continued safety, and I am so glad you are having fun--what an experience to look back on in years to come!!!!! I know our sweet Jeff is "cheering you on"!!!!!!!! Love, Jo
Hi Dustin and Betsy, I just found the letter Kendall sent that contained our website. Sorry I haven't checked in on you two before. It has been exciting to see how you are doing!! Looks like you are really moving along and doing what you have wanted to do for a long time. Fontana Village was mentioned as one of your stopovers. Carl and I stayed there one night of our honeymoon..1959. I remember that it was just comfortable (probably like a fine hotel for you) considering your accommodations on the trail. I'm not certain where you are now, but we have a place in Blowing Rock, NC near the trail. I had hoped we would be down there when you pass that spot, but we don't know when we can get there. Remember to get in touch when you near Waynesboro, VA. Home phone is 540-942-2589. Carl's cell (always has it on him) is 540-241-3366. We would love to have you stay with us and can meet you at the top of the mountain. We see many hikers in Waynesboro. They come in for mail, computers at the library, showers at the YMCA and restocking. I'll keep checking on you and prayers are going up for you that all is well.
Hey guys, sounds like you're moving right along. I know you miss Trail, but I'm sure you're moving a little faster and farther now. I hope your weather conditions get better for you. I know there's been a lot of rain and still snow on the east coast. Take care and stay safe.
Awesome update - and pictures! It's so good to see you guys looking well and healthy. Every time I read your updates, I imagine myself in your "shoes"... Betsy, I would be crying ALL the time! I love the blog... it makes it seem like you're not so far away! Barbara Warren
9 comments:
Hooray, Hooray for Sweet Potato and Bull! I've been wondering how they faired with all the crazy weather we've been having (and I knew they were probably getting snow). Let them know we're super proud of them and are always thinking of them. Thanks for the updates, Stacy. Zac and Martha
Hello Stacy.
Thanks for keeping us all posted. I got "mail from the trail" from Betsy and it made my week. The envelope was all duct taped and she even drew a picture! I would love to send them something, how can I do that? Do you know when they will be in Damascus?
My e-mail address is jeremymichelle@hotmail.com
Thank you-Michelle Jackson
I feel like you guys are running the AT; every time I check up on you, you're so much farther along; Bets, I'm going to a Robinella concert tonight-it made me think of you. What are you guys doing without an iPod? Do you just make up songs and sing them while you're trekking up the ol' mountain? You guys should start an AT acapella group; Dust could do the bass, rhythm, Bets, you should write the lyrics and sing, really put that English major to work out there on the AT.
Love you guys so much!
-Rach
Hey you guys!!! Stacy, thanks again for making it possible for all of us to share the adventure!! Also, hope you had a good birthday.
Papaw has told me in the past that we are descendants of Daniel Boone (I wonder). But that could explain your adventurous spirit, Betsy! The pictures are great--glad that beautiful Trail is enjoying being back at Hidden Valley. From what I hear , things are pretty good at Cleveland--as much as possible. Thinking of you so often and praying for your continued safety, and I am so glad you are having fun--what an experience to look back on in years to come!!!!! I know our sweet Jeff is "cheering you on"!!!!!!!! Love, Jo
Hi Dustin and Betsy, I just found the letter Kendall sent that contained our website. Sorry I haven't checked in on you two before. It has been exciting to see how you are doing!! Looks like you are really moving along and doing what you have wanted to do for a long time. Fontana Village was mentioned as one of your stopovers. Carl and I stayed there one night of our honeymoon..1959. I remember that it was just comfortable (probably like a fine hotel for you) considering your accommodations on the trail. I'm not certain where you are now, but we have a place in Blowing Rock, NC near the trail. I had hoped we would be down there when you pass that spot, but we don't know when we can get there. Remember to get in touch when you near Waynesboro, VA. Home phone is 540-942-2589. Carl's cell (always has it on him) is 540-241-3366. We would love to have you stay with us and can meet you at the top of the mountain. We see many hikers in Waynesboro. They come in for mail, computers at the library, showers at the YMCA and restocking. I'll keep checking on you and prayers are going up for you that all is well.
Love, Scottie and Carl
Hey guys, sounds like you're moving right along. I know you miss Trail, but I'm sure you're moving a little faster and farther now. I hope your weather conditions get better for you. I know there's been a lot of rain and still snow on the east coast.
Take care and stay safe.
Love, Rick & Donna
Hey Guys,
Judging by your sister's update you are really close to Max Patch. Hope it works out that I get to see you!
Sarah
Yo, Stace--where can I send some mail to them? My email is: rbg6m@virginia.edu
Thanks!
Rach Gent
Awesome update - and pictures! It's so good to see you guys looking well and healthy. Every time I read your updates, I imagine myself in your "shoes"... Betsy, I would be crying ALL the time! I love the blog... it makes it seem like you're not so far away!
Barbara Warren
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