Washington, DC (USA)

[work (Government Shutdown) - walked to Navy Yard - met Sean E for happy hour at Buffalo Wild Wings (he had rewards points and got lots of free appetizers) - stayed from 1530 to 1730 - Metro back to L'Enfant and (train swap) home]

Winter Break Trip - Day 5

[I woke Mollie up at 0600 and packed up the car - it was very cold and it took a while for the car to warm up - Katie had made us some lunch and organized our presents (what a haul!) so we had a lot to get in the car (as a result, Mollie couldn’t sleep in the back seat and she was sad) - we were on the road by 0630 and drove via MA-3, I-93 and I-95 until we were almost in Connecticut - Mollie slept for most of the way and we ate breakfast (snacks) while driving - I’d thought we might try to stop at National Parks for passport stamps) on the way but Mollie said she wanted to get home (“to snuggle in my bed”) - after getting gas in West Greenwich, RI (0745), we continued on I-95 into New Jersey (via the George Washington Bridge in NYC) - Mollie continued to sleep and only woke up as we switched to I-287 - we ate lunch (ham sandwiches, chips, fruit) after we got gas again (1100) in Bloomsbury (NJ) - we then used I-78 to go west into Pennsylvania - at that point, the traffic began to get horrendous - even though it was essentially a holiday, there were large buildups in the typical places I’ve seen traffic on regular work days - as a result, we had to detour around near Harrisburg (PA-443 to US-22, surface streets to cross Susquehanna River and reach US-15) and wait in big slow-down areas (I-270, I-495) all the way home - still, we were at my apartment by 1530 and immediately unpacked - Mollie was already missing her cousins by the time we ate dinner...]

Winter Break Trip - Day 4

[Katie had made Christmas morning very special by filling up Mollie and my stockings with goodies (many of which I had brought with me) - the whole atmosphere was extremely “family oriented” and I was glad to be able to show Mollie what that was like - she and her cousins were up at around 0800 and we opened presents in the living room with my sister's family until around 0930 - Katie's family was SO generous and knew exactly the kinds of things that Mollie loved - after that, we ate a huge breakfast ("overnight French Toast", eggs, bacon) - Mollie and I helped with the dishes but Katie made it difficult for us to contribute in many other ways while we were staying at her house - I went for a walk in the cold, brisk air - then we got ready for our trip to Cape Cod - Mollie and I left at around 1145 (we took Ella with us) and arrived at my father’s house in Sandwich at 1230, just as the Christmas meal was going to begin - Gerard, Judy (Beth’s sister) and Carolyn were already there and the rest of Katie's family (including Aria and Dan) arrived a little later - Beth had made a huge effort to set up a seating chart where (apparently, she thought) no one could disagree - the end result, however, was that Mollie ended up sitting at the adult table (she didn’t like this but I convinced her to “let it go”) - the dinner (turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cinnamon swirl rolls, corn, stuffing, gravy) came from Market Basket and was delicious - Dad and Beth had put a moratorium on gift-giving but there were several floating around (we gave presents to Dad/Beth, Gerard and Carolyn, while other family members exchanged presents) - after the meal, we watched slide shows (“Greatest Hits” and “1977 Summer Vacation”) and everyone laughed a lot - the fun continued with Katie showing everyone the App she had that turned photos into versions of people’s faces as the opposite gender or a different age or hairstyle - we were done with the event by 1600 and left when Gerard was ready - we followed him to his house in Plymouth and figured out how to load up my car with a fragile (100+ year old) set of four chairs that he wanted me to have; we also talked for a long time - Ella started texting Mollie, asking where she was, by 1730 so we headed back to Hanover - when we arrived, we found Uncle John watching a series of Christmas movies (“The Grinch”, “Jingle All the Way” and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”) - of course we joined him - later, I went for another walk and returned home quickly - Katie made dinner (homemade pizza) and we talked for several hours - Mollie really was getting sad about leaving her cousins and didn’t want to go to bed - we said goodbye to everyone because they planned to sleep late the next morning - I excused myself (for packing and sleeping) by 2200 but Mollie stayed up a bit longer]

Winter Break Trip - Day 3

[Mollie and I got up early (0730) and ate breakfast (leftovers) - we drove to Plymouth and went shopping for supplies and gifts - after about an hour, we continued our drive to Cape Cod and drove to Brewster, stopping to visit some more of my relatives (Dick and Judy) at 1015 - Mollie really enjoyed meeting them but especially liked their Australian Shepherd, “Finbar” - we had tea and Dunkin Donuts with them and departed at 1145 - we visited my mother’s gravestone and also stopped at the Brewster Store (1215), where I got Mollie a bag of penny candy - we then drove south through Brewster and Harwich, where I pointed out places important to my family - we ate a very light lunch (snacks in the car)- our drive later continued along MA-28 through Dennis and Yarmouth and I got to show Mollie my old schools and places where my family had lived, shopped and played - as we reached Barnstable and the edge of Hyannis (1330), we started getting “where are you?” texts and calls from Johnny - we therefore decided to head back to Hanover - there were snow flurries (Mollie liked that) and holiday traffic (we didn’t like that) - we cleaned ourselves up after we arrived at Katie’s (1415) and then drove to the North River Community Church (Katie's home church), for a Christmas Eve service - it was nice (Katie and Ella were singing) - after the service was over (1600), we got a family portrait and hot chocolate - Mollie and I then drove to a nearby Christmas Tree Shoppes store (Pembroke) to get some more supplies - Mollie really liked our almost "traditional pilgrimage" to the store) - by 1700, we were on our way to John’s brother’s (Brian’s) house for a Christmas Eve party - there, the kids changed into pajamas and watched movies while the parents hung out in another room - Mollie eventually got bored and spent almost half the evening with me - we got to see Aria and her boyfriend (Dan) - we also ate dinner (pot luck) and later opened gag gifts - at 2000, I took Mollie and Ella back to Katie’s - on the way, we looked for a gas station (something very difficult on Christmas Eve) and eventually found one in Norwell (2050) - back at Katie's house, Ella and Mollie frosted sugar cookies and I went for a walk (to get my steps) - the rest of the family arrived home by 2215 and Katie had the kids open a gift before going to bed (2300)]

Winter Break Trip - Day 2

[everyone slept in until almost 1000 - we ate a late breakfast (bagels, toast, English muffins, cereal) - at around 1045, Katie drove us from her house to Salem, hoping for a scenario where the NPS Passport Stamp could be obtained at a gift shop (sometimes possible) for the Maritime NHS - one of the Visitors Centers was closed but we walked around in the old district and located one of the first houses built in the town (Narbonne House, bui;t in 1675), a lighthouse and several other exhibits that described the history of the seaport - we also stopped at Waite & Peirce (a gift shop), which turned out to be another Visitors Center, and Mollie got the stamp she craved and some souvenirs (1220) - our next stop was Brodie's Seaport Café, where we ate a delicious lunch and Katie watched her beloved Patriots playing the Buffalo Bills (done at 1320) - we finished eating at around 1345 and then went to the Salem Witch Museum (relatively unchanged since the 1970s), walked around on the Old Common and, later, the Old Burial Point - it was cold and windy but the sun was shining brightly - everyone seemed happy to be outdoors and Mollie had fun with her cousins - after we were done, Katie drove us home by 1615 and went to church with John - meanwhile, I took Mollie, Johnny and Ella to visit one of our relatives - we got gas in Hanover (1730) and drove to Gerard's house in Plymouth (1800) - we ate dinner (pizza) there and had a nice visit with him - at around 2030, we drove back to Hanover and watched a movie (“Elf”) - Mollie and Ella decided to make sugar cookies and Katie also helped them make her special peanut butter with Hershey Kiss cookies - I went to bed at 2230 but Mollie stayed up for another hour]

Winter Break Trip - Day 1

[we got up at around 0615 and finished packing - we ate breakfast (ClifBar) and got on the road by 0715 - gas fillup in Alexandria (0725) - we used I-495, I-95, I-695, I-83 and I-81 to head north - Mollie slept for almost four hours in the back seat of my little car (she said she loved "the coziness") - parts of the Government shut down, so we weren't able to enjoy a major part of our Daddy-Daughter vacations on the way to New England (visiting National Parks and getting NPS Passport Stamps) - Mollie was disappointed and it wasn't looking good for any park visits for the rest of the week - we stopped at a rest area on I-80 to assess our options and decided to head north (back roads) to I-84 - gas fillup in Montague, NJ (1225) - we ate lunch (snacks) in the car - we also played a game I called “Favorites of 2018” and talked about Spring Break and Summer Vacation plans - we detoured a few times off the Interstate in New York and Connecticut (for traffic) and eventually (north of Hartford) switched to I-384 and US-6 to get to Providence - after that, we drove on I-295, I-95 had I-93 to get to Braintree and MA-3 - we arrived at Katie's house at about 1630 - Uncle John made dinner (chicken parmigiana, salad) - after eating, I went for a walk - when I returned, we headed over to Ella’s school to watch her play basketball - we walked to and from the game (full moon, brisk) - back at the house, we enjoyed the company of family for several more hours before bed (2330)]

Washington, DC (USA)

[work - Brenna met me at L'Enfant (1630) - we walked (in the rain) to Jefferson Academy - volunteered for an hour - walked to Mi Vida at around 1800 - dinner - took SW Shuttle and Metro back to Huntington - drove home (arrived around 2045)]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[work - lunch with Tyler at L'Enfant food court - work - took Metro to King Street and met Stephanie, John, Kelly and Joe R. at Theismans for happy hour - stayed until around 2030 - then Metro home]

Washington, DC (USA)

[I texted Brenna a few times to coordinate our meet up (giving her times and locations so we’d be able to see animals and beat the crowds) - at 1500, when she was supposed to leave home, I learned that she could not find her Metro card - after several attempts to find an extra SmarTrip failed, I left work and took the Metro back to Huntington, where I met her and gave her my extra card - we then got on Metro together and took it to Woodley Park Station - we walked to the National Zoo, arriving at around 1645 - for over an hour and a half, we walked around the park, drinking hot chocolate, enjoying the Christmas Lights, seeing the Lions, and talking - Zoo Lights much different (no gingerbread houses, NO animal displays open, just lights) - afterwards, we walked back to the Metro Station and took the train to Gallery Place, where we had dinner (bread with mango butter, plantains with guacamole, Cuban sandwiches, salad) at Cuba Libre - it was a great meal and the manager came by at the end to talk to us - he offered to throw a big party for Brenna and Erin when they turned 21 (she liked that idea) - at about 2030, we took the Metro back to Huntington and I told Brenna to keep the SmarTrip card until Thursday - overall, the evening seemed like a big success - after we both left the garage, Brenna called to tell me that the Chrysler driver’s side window had fallen off the track into the door - I met up with her again at Rose Hill shopping center and determined I could not fix the problem - Brenna said she would take the car to K&B (Tom, her mother’s mechanic) in the morning]

Woodbridge, VA (USA)

[telework - drove to Woodbridge to get Explorer windshield repaired (after it was shattered the previous day) - home by 1500]

Konnarock, VA (USA)

Woke up very early, excited to see whether I'd chosen wisely about staying in the area. It had rained all night but the pre-dawn mist was all the moisture that remained. Still, the forecast called for rain all day so I didn't want to waste any time getting started. Larry insisted on another hearty breakfast (pancakes, sausage, eggs) and gave me a hand-made AT necklace! He also invited me to return for another stay at his hostel if I was ever in the area. Full of good food, I departed Damascus. Driving on US-58 (east) was slow going - it was very foggy and dark - as I could barely see the road. I carefully made my way to the gravel road (VA-601) near Konnarock where the AT trailhead was and, when I got out of the car, was met with chilly mountain air. As I've done for over a month now, I left behind some of my normal "overnight supplies" and, instead, brought more clothing layers. Today I wore my rain poncho too, since the cloud-like environment was constantly wet. The section I planned to hike was located between US-58 and the access road on top of Whitetop Mountain and I started NOBO from my car (0715) with the intention of swapping out gear when I backtracked to the "highway." On the way up the mountain (constant climb), it wasn't too cold or wet and encountered several deer. Near the top of the ridge, however, I found a thin layer of snow (almost ice pellets) and, after the trail made a huge switchback, I found some wind and much deeper snow. At first, I enjoyed the quiet winter solitude and took pictures happily. I'd brought a winter coat but it was safely in my backpack. I was wearing waterproof gloves and my Santa Fe Stetson so didn't feel cold. However, the conditions got worse as I continued on the plateau - especially as I passed through two different treeless balds. The wind was icy and biting and, while there was no precipitation, the snow blew sideways and massed in deeper drifts. I got fooled by a road that I crossed - I'd expected to see a one where I turned around previously and wishfully thought I'd found it. However, I figured out (with the lack of deja vu tingles and some rare GPS signal in the area) that I was still almost a mile from actual USFS-89 (Whitetop Mountain Road). I learned later that my mileage was off and that there was at least 0.5 to 1.0 more hiking for me than I'd expected. Trudged slowly onward through the snow, wind and fog, hoping to see evidence of the turnaround point... Instead, I was startled to see another hiker! He was extremely bundled up and must have thought I was the crazy one (long sleeved shirt, rain poncho, cowboy hat...) and he may have been correct! I learned that I was only about 100 yards from the road and that he was one of four section hikers that were headed SOBO. A second (lady) passed me but I never saw the other two. By the time I started my backtrack, I could barely hold my phone to take photos it was so miserable and cold. But, as usually happens, my hike back to the car goes quicker because I know what's coming. I caught up to the two section hikers more than once (we leapfrogged) as we tried to get back to the treeline and windless side of the mountain. Eventually, we were all in a rhythm and hiked down together (with me in the lead). It was great to get out of the snow but then it started raining... Made good (drenched) time with "Ranger Rick" (?) and "Joda" (she climbed Kilimanjaro in the Spring) as we made our way (back) to VA-601. Talked about flying, favorite section hikes and logistics to finish the AT. They stopped at the trailhead (to wait for their friends) but I kept going (never did swap out gear...). It was still raining, so the section between my car and US-58 was essentially a series of mud-rivers, some across wide open pastures and some in the "forest" of rhododendrons. "Enjoyed" a bit of climbing/descending too. Fortunately, it wasn't as far of a distance as I'd thought - I had already turned around and was halfway back to my car before I encountered all four of the section hikers (never really talked to the last two, though). Was happy to see the car again as I slip slid my way across the open fields at the end of my day. Done (after nearly 10 miles) by 1130. By then, the rain had stopped and I was able to change out of my muddy/drenched clothes. Last time I have to drive into the remote Mount Rogers NRA zone again - less then 10 miles left of AT in Virginia! Decided to drive home via VA-603, VA-16 and I-81 - crossing fingers for a speedy and safe drive home. Got gas in Daleville at around 1430 and Was relatively fortunate, as far as traffic was concerned. Unfortunately, I did get the passenger side of my windshield bashed by debris from an 18-wheeler near Gainesville (ouch!). Made it home, though - whew... Great hiking weekend! AT Today = 3.90 miles / G.T. AT = 1281.52 miles

Damascus, VA (USA)

Woke up to the smell of Larry’s cooking (eggs, hash browns, pork chops and biscuits) - mmmm. He asked me to go over to Cowboys "to buy three to four eggs" (they ended up giving me a dozen for their friend). I also explored Damascus for a short time, looking for lunch to-go. Eventually got one at Mojo's Trailside Cafe (0715). Back at the Hostel, I swapped some more stories with the Thru hikers before my shuttle arrived (0800). I’ve not normally hired a driver like that but I was motivated by the great weather, the chance to avoid driving around in the mountains and the length of the section. Larry (hostel owner) and Larry (shuttle driver) chatted while we drove the roughly 12 miles on curvy US-58 to the trailhead (Creek Junction on VA-728). Meanwhile, I enjoyed the company of the former Larry’s dog, Sally... By 0830, I was climbing the steep bluff from the parking lot up to the Creeper Trail (Luther Hassinger Bridge). I headed SOBO and enjoyed a flat section for a little over a mile. After that, I climbed the first (of two) ridges. It was overcast and cool at first and I felt good about my energy as I trudged through mud and some leftover snow. I was layered up and prepared (rain poncho) but the temps climbed to the lower 50s as the sun came out (Yaay!). It did rain for a very short time but the tree cover kept me from getting wet. I could hear the sound of the water running in several deep creeks. Sometimes, I spotted the Creeper Trail far below. Other times, I heard cars on US-58. Highlight, though, was the clear sound of an eagle screeching overhead. Didn’t see any wildlife and didn’t expect to see any people, either, but encountered three at once while I was on the first ridge. One was a SOBO trail runner and the other two were college kids, out for a 100 mile section hike (NOBO). I learned that one of them had Thru hiked over the Spring and Summer but was unable to finish. He’d convinced his friend to tag along as he tried to fill in the gaps he’d missed. After those guys, I only saw one more person - a day Hiker within 100 yards of the Damascus Town Line. So was basically alone all day - but that’s ok! Found a really cold hollow, full of snow and exuding some freaky fog (was glad I was still layered). Some tense moments in a few places: one where I almost slid down the steep mountain after slipping on a wet rock and one where I had to bushwhack through the woods to cross a creek (Feathercamp Branch) where the AT bridge was apparently washed out completely. I’d only seen the latter situation once before (NH) and both cases were due to extremely high water. The creek was uncrossable (without falling all the way in), so the muddy and ripped clothes were worth the price... Headed up the second ridge after that and was rewarded with great views of snow capped peaks to the south, Damascus to the west and a huge valley to the north. But then I got to do some switchbacks from hell (at least it was downhill...), where I basically backtracked a mile on the hill and then reversed direction again into town. Walked the last half mile or so on the Creeper Trail again and finished at Larry’s around 1430. All miles counted as new AT miles today! It started to get cold and overcast just as I reached my car - I think I got the best of mid-December weather I could expect. Decided to stay in town another night and see if I could finish the last (almost) four miles in the area. After Larry had finished mopping the floors, I checked back into the Hostel and rested for many hours (reading, surfing the Internet). Before bed, I talked with Larry about his business and trail news - no other people checked into the place and it was almost pouring all evening. More hiking tomorrow! AT Today = 14.30 miles / G.T. AT = 1277.62 miles

Damascus, VA (USA)

For almost two weeks, the weather forecast has been terrible (rain, low temps) for this weekend in each of the hiking zones I monitor. Over two feet of snow fell in the NC/TN/VA mountains and I wasn’t inclined to “wade” through the trail. Actually considered staying home until this morning, suddenly, when I spied a partly cloudy day in the Damascus area. Decided to chance it to keep my hiking steak (almost every other weekend since July) going. Left home later than I wanted and had to drive in rain for many hours. Got gas in Salem at 1455 and was glad that the traffic was pretty light. There was a lot of snow on the ground south of Lexington too - things didn’t look good... I took VA-16 from Marion and drove into the Mount Rogers area (switched to VA-603), hoping that it would be nice the following day (at least) when I came across a hollow with no rain and sunshine! I was close to the intersection of US-58 - found the trailhead by 1645 (less than 30 minutes left until sunset) and, with no sign of rain, headed SOBO. Wasn’t planning anything aggressive, just a short hike before it was too dark. There was enough snow on the ground that it was extremely slippery in places. However, it was mostly mud and slush. Saw lots of deer within a few hundred yards of the road but no people at all. Within the first half mile, my back was drenched because (I later discovered) I hadn’t completely tightened the reservoir cap... Fixed it and was on my way again quickly, albeit wet. The short hike took me back to the Lost Mountain Shelter and I backtracked immediately. It got dark enough that I considered using the headlamp but I could see my tracks in the twilight. Just before the car, I had to navigate a bridgeless, five-inch-deep creek... Got in my car at 1750 (a little over two miles hiked) and headed west on curvy, treacherous US-58 (toward town). Stopped to visit Larry at his hostel and he helped me set up a shuttle for the following morning. Spent the evening sharing hiking stories with him and a young couple from Maryland (SOBO Thru Hikers, “Thumper” and “Fix-It”) who’d been waiting for the USPS to deliver their winter gear. Enjoyed some moonshine and cookie-brownies. Feeling excited to try a longer section tomorrow. 2018 hiking ain’t done yet! AT Today = 1.10 miles / Grand Total AT = 1263.32 miles

Washington, DC (USA)

[work - at 1605, walked with Nancy and Tony T to Amidon-Bowen Elementary School and helped set up Family Math Night (volunteer work) - after we were done (1545), walked back to L'Enfant and took Metro home]

Washington, DC (USA)

[work - went to the holiday luncheon at ATCA HQ in Old Town - more work - at 1730, took SW Shuttle to District Wharf for happy hour at Cantina Bambina (Heineken free drinks) - built gingerbread houses - enjoyed the fire pit - met young people from Peru and Bolivia - walked around on the Wharf (exploring for new restaurants) - stayed until 2000 - SW Shuttle and Metro home]

Landover, MD (USA)

[I woke Mollie up at 0800 and made breakfast (bacon, toast, dried cranberries) for her to eat in her room while she studied; at 1015, we left my apartment to drive to FedEx Field so we could watch the Redskins-Giants game (in my company suite) - after exploring the tailgate area, we went into the stadium at 1100 and ate lunch (BBQ sliders, beans, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw and cornbread) - we had a great time meeting new people, watching the plays on the field and seeing old friends - Mollie was also wrapped up in a graphic novel that she was reading on Overdrive - the game (between the Redskins and Giants) was disappointing for the home crowd (almost a shutout) - we stayed until the end of the third quarter and then drove home - Mollie studied from about 1530 until 1630 - after she packed up, I dropped Mollie off at her mother's house (1655)]

Washington, DC (USA)

[I had to wake Mollie up a few times between 0730 and 0830 (her request) - she got such a slow start that she skipped breakfast - I dropped her off at Edison at 0900 so she could work on producing the school paper - I went to do a lot of errands, including getting groceries and toiletries (shower caps) that Mollie had requested - I also picked up a poinsettia to decorate our apartment (since we weren’t getting a tree) - Mollie had said she wanted to stay at the school to watch a play (“Mama Mia”) with her friends, so she did that starting at 1400 - she’d mentioned that she was going to take the bus home (and I had to drive over to the school to give her bus pass to her) but she ended up getting a ride home from Rachel (1715) - by that time, I'd left for Washington, DC, to attend my company Holiday Party at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel - the cocktail hour(s) were fun, the food was excellent and there were several VIPs in attendance (from Mayor's office, NBA players' family) - there was a comedian (Lamont King) and our CEO (Jan) gave out lots of prizes to the employees - meanwhile, Mollie made herself dinner (pizza, green beans) and studied a lot - I wanted to stay until the end but also wanted to get back to see my daughter - so I left at around 2200 and arrived home about 30 minutes later - Mollie and talked for a short time before I went to bed - she stayed up studying until almost midnight]

Washington, DC (USA)

[work - during lunch hour, walked to Navy Memorial and watched the Bush (41) Funeral Procession (saw George W. and Laura Bush, waited with Congressional Staffers in the cold) - after work (1545), helped Kelly carry a box from her office to her car and we drove over to Pentagon City to have happy hour at Chevys - Mike showed up later - got a call from Sabrina (1700) that she was in Kingstowne (she asked me to join her at the Bonefish Grill) so we all headed there (I went via Metro, Kelly and Mike took their own cars) and we reconvened with Sabrina - learned that one of our former colleagues had passed away - had some fun until around 2000 and then I went home]

Elizabethton, TN (USA)

Woke up early and, when I went outside, discovered that the clouds were departing and it was suddenly t-shirt weather (50s)! It was still a bit dark and I got to see a lot of Christmas decorations in the hills around Elizabethton. Got gas and breakfast (0730) and made a game time decision about the section I'd hike: it looked clearer to the north but I wanted to finish a section near Roan Mountain so took my chances in that direction. Despite there being more fog and low clouds on the ridges (US-19E), I was not disappointed with my choice. Parked at the entrance of a muddy dirt road (hoping I could later get the car out...) on the side of Campbell (Cambell) Hollow Road at 0815 and headed NOBO. The section was shaped like a bowl, with steep descents and climbs indicated in the AWOL guide. But I felt energized as I started and cut the hike into manageable portions - telling myself that I only had two miles down to the river or up to the ridge seemed to overcome the fatigue in my muscles. The clouds were almost completely gone by the time I reached Jones Falls (very pretty cascades but I didn't take a picture). I only had to go down a little more to find a long, flat field that followed a river for a bit before climbing right back up onto another ridge. I had to fight through some sections where lots of trees had fallen - one entire bluff was a mass of devastation (but nice views). It was quite muddy in places and several streams were swollen so much that I had to walk in the water to cross. All day long, I was alone (no wildlife) and it was nearly silent. Occasionally, I'd hear running water, gun shots from distant hunters or dirt bike sounds. I stopped a few times and enjoyed the peace - marveling that I could find such silent places. Another highlight of my day was when I crossed a creek below Mountaineer Falls - pretty! Turned around at the nearby Mountaineer Shelter and then backtracked towards the car. The temps had risen into the 60s by then and I laughed to myself that I was sweating in December! Used the same "bite sized pieces" strategy to finish the section - slowed down a lot near the end but still wrapped up around 10.5 miles by 1230. Changed clothes (the road was so deserted I only saw one car) and later chatted with some locals who were out for a morning walk. Just had to get home (dreaded the drive but that's the price for this adventure)... Drove northeast to Boone and then used US-421 (lots of fog west of Wilkesboro), I-40 and I-85, with a gas stop at Raceway in South Hill, VA (1700). Switched to I-95 in Petersburg and finished the trip in good spirits. This is probably the way I'll have to drive every time I hike south of Virginia but I still have some more hiking to do near Elizabethton before I'm forced to change my driving route. The weekend was great - accomplished everything I'd planned and felt even better to discover that I'd hiked 200 new miles of AT for the fifth year in a row. And I still have time for more! AT Today = 5.20 miles / G.T. AT = 1262.22 miles

Erwin, TN (USA)

The forecast said it was going to be raining everywhere so I didn’t hurry out of town. After getting breakfast at Chick-fil-A (0805), I used US-321 to get to I-26 and headed south. I was able to see for miles in all directions and didn’t see any rain clouds so started thinking about hiking in North Carolina. Stopped for some advice at the Unicoi County Visitors Center (Mollie and I had found it in early 2017). The Volunteer (get it?) was very helpful and showed me where the AT crossed the Interstate (Sam’s Gap). He warned me away from parking there (regular thefts) but I decided to at least check it out. I had to use some back roads but eventually found the trailhead. Saw two other cars and decided to hike there, despite any risk. By then, it had started to sprinkle but I wore my rain poncho again and headed SOBO (0915). There was an immediate climb and I had some good views of I-26 and the trucks that were struggling to cross the gap. Like most of the AT nearby, the trail wound back and forth across the TN-NC border. As I passed 3.5K feet, I reached a dense fog. Still higher, a strong wind blew the rain sideways - it hurt! Sometimes, the wind blew away the fog and I could see a bit farther - but most of the climb was rather miserable. It was probably 55 degrees when I left my car but the wind on the ridge made it feel like 30s. Didn’t see any people or wildlife but heard the ominous cracking and crashing sounds of trees and branches falling nearby (there was at least one tree that fell on the trail after I’d passed and I had to find a way around during the backtrack). Was very happy to reach my turnaround point (Hogback Ridge Shelter) - headed back immediately. I was happy to reach the warm, clear and drier environment near my car by 1115 (after around five miles of hiking). Still felt good so drove back to the north (used TN-352 for a short time) until I reached Erwin. There was no evidence of rain in the Nolichucky River Valley so I parked on River Road (on the other side of the bridge from Uncle Johnny’s). Thought maybe I’d see the dog that hiked with me in 2017 but he never made an appearance... Started NOBO at 1145 and enjoyed the rather flat beginning of the section. Later saw some amazing views of the Nolichucky from the steep (precarious) cliff that the AT took to navigate north. Crossed a large number of swollen creeks, some that overwhelmed the trail in water and mud. There were so many birds out today - guess they don’t think it’s winter yet... Got to one place where two or three huge trees had recently fallen, almost obliterating the AT. Found my way around with great difficulty. In the last mile of my outbound leg, the trail got much steeper (with no switchbacks) and I slowed down tremendously. As I was nearing the top of the ridge, I encountered two older ladies (they looked like twins) who had been dropped off by a shuttle driver at Indian Grave Gap. They told me that it was raining heavily there (about five miles away) and I was glad I’d started in the valley... We parted ways quickly and I eventually made it to my turnaround point, Curley Maple Gap Shelter. I normally head back right away but this time I rested there for about 15 minutes, reading trail wisdom in the shelter log book and enjoying the ubiquitous graffiti. Headed back downhill and made great time - was going so fast that I caught up to the lady hikers again. They had been having a tough time with the downed trees, the mud and the distance. Based on their appearance and demeanor, I recommended they get off the AT when we reached the Nolichucky Campground. They agreed but asked me to help them find the way. Learned it was the first time that “Sun Flo Jo” and “Holly” had hiked the AT together - Holly had never done anything close to the distance or terrain and had COPD. Neither of them had gear or maps (it reminded me of myself when I first started section hiking). I guided them back to the hostel via the road (arrived at 1545 after more than nine miles) and they thanked me for the Trail Magic. I was glad to help and wished them well on future adventures. As I was getting in my car, it started to rain... Luckily, I was done for the day (14+ miles and only got a little wet)! Drove back to Elizabethton and started watching the weather for tomorrow’s hike. Ate dinner at Amigo Mexican Restaurant in Elizabethton (done at 1825) and read in my room until bed time. AT Today = 7.10 miles / G.T. AT = 1257.02

Sugar Grove, VA (USA)

Watched the weather all week and there were no good options for hiking - it was either snow or rain... Had a short day of work lined up, though, and didn’t want to waste it! Chose the southern zone and braved I-81 (along with I-495 and I-66) again, despite my claims of “never again” from earlier in the month. Got gas in Staunton (1300) and then had good luck with traffic all the way to Marion. Used VA-16, VA-603 and VA-600 to reach the AT Trailhead at Elk Garden (stopped for gas again in Sugar Grove at 1545). It was really foggy all the way from the Interstate to the parking lot. Started SOBO at 1630, bound for the summit of Whitetop Mountain. There was a light drizzle but it wasn’t cold. I was definitely prepared (poncho, two layers, overnight gear) for the changing conditions - every time I’ve been in the area I’ve been surprised by wild swings in temperature and high winds that started unexpectedly. The grade was actually quite pleasant and I made great time in my climb - it’s a good thing too because I was racing the sunset (1715)! Saw several white tails (but not an entire deer) but no people. The fog got worse and I encountered snow and ice (covering rocks I needed to climb) near the top. This slowed me down a bit but I was able to get to the access road before it was completely dark. Decided to use the road to get back to the car and it was a lot easier than trying to navigate roots and rocks and ice in the dark. I walked a long time without seeing any signs of pavement - started to wonder if I’d miscalculated but kept trudging along. It got really DARK! Had planned to use my headlamp but the fog and rain made it almost impossible to see with the light - instead, I tried to follow the lighter shades of dirt and, when I reached VA-600 again, the white line on the edge of the road. There was barely enough ambient light to make my way but I was startled a few times by low branches that “grabbed me”. Fortunately, only two cars passed me (one in each direction) so I was able to be on pavement all the way back. Was relieved when I reached the car again. Finished about 5.5 miles by 1830. Felt great and almost forgot that my clothes were damp. Of course, then I had to drive out of the mountains - through the fog. I made it to US-58 In only a few minutes but the 17 mile drive to Damascus required a lot of concentration and caution. When I briefly came back into cell zone, I was surprised to discover that I had a voicemail from Eileen. I called her back and waited in Shady Valley to keep the signal. After that, I had to finish the rest of the almost 40 mile drive to Elizabethton (TN) on slippery, foggy, curvy and scary mountain roads (including TN-91). Arrived at my comfy hotel(Travelers Inn) by 2015 and called Eileen back (nice conversation). After the day I’ve had, should feel exhausted - instead, I’m pretty jazzed about getting out on the trail again. The next few days will be wet but the hiking highs should make the drive worthwhile... AT Today = 2.40 miles / Grand Total AT = 1249.92 miles

Washington, DC (USA)

[work - at 1715, walked to Plan B, where I had a few drinks and some sliders - about 45 minutes later, I walked down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House (stopping briefly at Old Ebbitt Grill) - by 1815, I was at the White House Visitors Center (checking in) and a few minutes later we walked into the seating area for the National Christmas Tree Lighting Dress Rehearsal! (access provided by my company) - it was cold but I really didn't notice it until I'd been there for about an hour - talked to the volunteers who were managing the check-in list - also saw a (very good) Santa Claus - at about 1915, all the performers came out and spent the next 45 minutes practicing their group songs - I'd expected a few solos by the (famous?) people but they never did that - by 2000, I was cold enough that I'd had enough - walked towards McPherson Square Metro Station but got drawn over to the front of the White House by some loud protestors (checked them out, they were ridiculous) - walked the rest of the way to the Metro and ended up getting on a Huntington bound train within a few minutes (no Yellow Line) - made it home by 2045]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 5

[I woke the girls up at 0730 and we all started to get ready for departure - Mollie and I went to visit Chuck and Mary & Leo's family in the hospitality room and said goodbye - we also got some snacks and ate a light “breakfast” - at about 0800, we returned to the room and let the girls know to head up there too - Mollie and I stopped by Bonnie’s room and said goodbye to her and Kathy (we learned that the Twins had already stopped by to see her) - we checked out of La Cantera Resort & Spa at 0900 and our Uber driver (Gabriel again) picked us up about 15 minutes later - we drove to the San Antonio Airport (fortunately, no traffic) and checked our bag quickly (0940) - there was no line at Security and we got through easily (Mollie was even given a chance to try Pre-Check) - we found our gate (1000) and then the kids looked around for place to eat - Erin and I ended up getting brunch (burritos) at a Mexican diner called Rosario’s - later, Brenna and Mollie picked up food to go - while we were waiting to board our United Airlines flight, we all had a good chat about the trip and talked about going to future Thanksgivings - we got on our plane (a Regional Jet aircraft) at around noon and took off late - during the flight, we talked some more (about school, Winter Break and the upcoming semester) - Mollie and Brenna studied and I helped Erin with a crossword puzzle - we arrived at Dulles (1615) to nasty (cold and rainy) weather - it took us a long time to get to the baggage claim area (shuttle, train, lots of escalators) but our bag arrived quickly - we then had to walk a long way to reach Erin’s car - by the time we were driving (1710), we all felt pretty good about how the trip had gone - the ride home was difficult because of the weather and poorly painted lines on the Dulles Airport Road - we encountered lots of traffic near I-66 - Erin and Brenna had planned to drive back to Harrisonburg the same evening (I didn't really like this but asked them to be careful) - we stopped at Nicky’s house so Mollie could pick up textbooks and Brenna could pack for JMU (I said goodbye to her there) - Erin dropped Mollie and me off at my apartment at around 1900 and all three of us said our goodbyes - Mollie immediately cooked dinner (pizza, applesauce) - we watched another episode from the “Lonesome Dove” series - after that, Mollie went in her room to rest - Erin called me on the phone as she and Brenna arrived in Harrisonburg (2055) - Mollie and I went to bed at around 2230]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 4

[from our hotel in La Cantera, I teleworked in the morning while the girls slept - I'd planned to meet up with my cousin, Sharon (from Austin), but found out that she was sick and was not able to visit with us after all (sad) - everyone was awake in our room by 0930 and we went to the family room to meet up with everyone - at 1030, we left for the Rim (I rode with Chuck) and everyone met up at the Santikos Amphitheater, where Mary had gotten us free tickets for the 1130 showing of the “Fantastic Beasts” sequel (and $0.50 popcorn!) - I also got beer for Chuck and Leo (1120) - we were all sitting in different parts of the theater but had a great time - we all met up again afterwards (1400) - we then went back to the hotel and Brenna did some studying - Mollie went to the hotel store and got some lunch (sandwich) with her own money - Brenna did the same thing later - we met up with the family again at around 1545 - Leo had let me borrow his car and we (our family and Sean) used it to get to their house in Boerne - we explored Mary and Leo's new house - we later drove into town for the “Dickens on Main” event - the girls and I walked around for a few hours, enjoying the shops and picking up a light dinner (Frito pie, beignets) - eventually, we met the family again for the tree lighting and then (after a lot of trouble corralling the group) went back to Mary and Leo's for hors de oeuvres - everyone had a very nice time and ate well - at around 2000, we drove back to the hotel and met up with everyone in the family room - most people watched football for a while and then started to depart for their rooms (tired) - I was in the room first but the girls were all there by 2230, when we went to bed]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 3

[another good night in La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio - the girls slept in until about 0900 - I read a book and went walking on the hotel property - we’d received a letter that allowed us to get a free beverage at the hotel coffee shop and I texted the kids so they’d know to get theirs - when I got back to the room (1030), the girls were getting ready - we all skipped breakfast (although Mollie ate leftover pancakes) - we watched a little bit of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (JMU and Keller Marching Bands were involved) - before the kids were done getting ready, they got their free drink at the coffee shop - we then finished up and walked to Chuck’s room (staging area) - at 1215, we all walked to a place I’d found in the hotel ballroom area (with pretty recessed bells, ala San Antonio Mission) and took pictures - afterwards, we went for lunch at the Thanksgiving Feast - the kids and I ate a LOT and stayed for almost three hours - everyone enjoyed themselves tremendously - afterwards, the girls and I went back to the room and rested for an hour - Mollie got bored and went to visit with the family in Chuck’s room - meanwhile, the Twins took naps - Mollie started texting me constantly and asked me to come to be with her - at 1700, Brenna started studying and I went with Erin to Chuck’s - I found out that most of the kids wanted to dip their feet in the hot tub so I took all of them (minus Brenna) there for about 30 minutes - we had a nice conversation - by 1800, we rejoined the larger family and watched part of the NFL games that were ongoing - the kids ate dinner (leftovers) and started playing “Mexican Train” with their older cousins - Brenna joined us (but kept doing homework) by 1930 - we all had cheesecake and everyone was in good spirits - at 2030, I excused myself and went to my room to rest - Mollie returned and watched Movies for a while - Erin came by the room to tell me that her friend just learned that her grandfather died - Erin was thinking about going to the funeral in Roanoke and we talked about the logistics - Brenna continued studying and Erin went back to the family room, where she stayed late with our relatives - by 2300, everyone was back in the room and got into bed - I decided to let them all fall asleep before me so they might not be "distracted by my snoring" (it seemed to work) - I was asleep before 0015]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 2

[the girls slept until 0745 - I teleworked for a few hours in the morning - at 0830, Mollie left with Kathy and Bonnie to explore the area - she ended up having breakfast (Sweet Fire Grill) with them - Brenna took a long time to wake up - the Twins and I ate granola bars that Erin had brought from home - from the restaurant, Mollie coordinated a trip to the La Cantera Mall (departure planned for 1000) - Brenna and Erin took a very long time to get ready... - Mollie returned from breakfast with leftovers - eventually, they all left for the Shops at La Cantera area and I did some more telework - Mollie called me a few times and eventually recommended that we meet up at a place Gabriel (Uber Driver) recommended - I took the hotel shuttle (1200) and met everyone at Palenque Grill for lunch (Mexican) - it was a very nice time and the food was great (finished at 1330) - the kids and I later walked back to catch the shuttle (1400) - Brenna didn’t feel well and wanted to take a nap - after I’d coordinated a later room cleanup time, Mollie, Erin and I met up with Mary and she drove us to the Rim shopping area - we dropped Erin and Mollie off at James Avery - Mary and I went to buy drinks at Total Wine & More (1505) - we all met up again later at Bass Pro Shops - Mollie and I had fun at the shooting gallery - I’d planned to meet up with one of my Navy friends but he ended up being too busy - we made one more stop at the Cheesecake Factory and I used a gift card to get a variety of slices for the “party room” (1530) - we then went back to the hotel and met up with the rest of our cousins (including Leo, Sean and Shannon) - Chuck was running late so it was pretty crowded in one of the smaller (private) rooms - I went back to our own room to check on Brenna and tried to help her with her headache (made her hydrate and try to fix per pillow situation) - Mollie also tried to find chewable headache medicine at the hotel (no luck) - after learning that Chuck had arrived, Mollie and I coordinated movement of items between the rooms and then I convinced Brenna to leave the room for a walk - we explored the hotel (pool, stores, restaurants, gym) and made a stop at the Spa to check on targeted massages (for Brenna’s neck) - she didn’t end up wanting one but said she had started to feel better - we met the entire extended family at Chuck’s room later (1745) and enjoyed some snacks while everyone else agonized over the dinner location - once everyone agreed to go to the Shops at La Cantera, we got rides to the restaurant (from Leo) - once there (1900), the kids said they wanted to eat at a different place than the group (PF Chang) so we walked a short distance to Luciano’s Pizzeria - we had a great dinner (cheese pizza, salads and cheesy bread) - we finished at 2000 and took the shuttle back to the hotel - Brenna said she didn’t feel well again so I encouraged her to stay in the room for more hydration, a bath, no social media and an early bed time - Mollie and Erin went back to Chuck’s room to enjoy the family visiting some more and I did a little more telework - by 2145, Mollie returned and watched TV with Brenna - I asked the girls to mute the volume and went to bed at 2230 - Erin had not returned when I woke up briefly at 2345 but she came in as I was getting a drink - just at that same moment, the hotel fire alarm went off and we had to evacuate the hotel - Erin told me she’d been having a nice time with our cousins but Mollie and Brenna were annoyed that she had not been answering them - after a short time outside, the “all clear” was sounded and we went back to the room - everyone tried to get back to sleep (tough) but I think everyone was settled before midnight]

Thanksgiving Trip - Day 1

[I worked in the city all morning - left at around 1230 and finished my packing at the apartment - Erin and Brenna picked me up at 1350 (after they made an ill-advised stop at Burger King for a late lunch) - we drove to Edison and I went inside to check Mollie out from school (she passed me and went to the car while I was in the school office) - we were on our way to the airport by 1405 - fortunately, we left early enough that the traffic hadn’t backed up to I-66 yet (it almost had) - on the way, we talked about the security process, the checked bag rules, using Uber to get around (no rental car) and where we’d get our food - we used the Access Road and arrived at Dulles by 1430 - we had to drive around for a while before we were able to park - this ultimately benefited us, though, and we were able to walk to the terminal - tried to complete the bag check process but had to wait a long time because there was a computer glitch (done at 1515) - when we went to Security, we found a relatively short line (canine search) and got through very quickly - we were at our gate by 1530 (after riding on a special shuttle to the United Terminal) - I bought the kids sandwiches from Dunkin Donuts (1615) to eat later - about 30 minutes before boarding, I figured out that our gate had changed and we moved to a new area - we were on the plane by 1715 but our takeoff was delayed - once we were in the air, we had a nice time talking with the young couple and their daughter (Vivian) in my row (the kids were all sitting together on the other side from me) - Erin was very nervous about flying and I reassured her throughout - Brenna did some studying and Mollie reveled in looking out the window (taking lots of pictures) - we ate dinner (sandwiches, fruit snacks) about halfway through the flight - the girls listened to pod casts and music and I researched brochures to prep for my trips to New Zealand and Spain - we arrived in San Antonio by 2015 (local time) and were off the plane very quickly - we retrieved our checked bag and walked to the ride share area - our Uber Driver (Gabriel) picked us up quickly and drove us to the Resort - he was Italian and made all kinds of recommendations for restaurants in the area (the kids were entertained) - we arrived at the hotel (La Cantera Resort) at around 2045 and learned that they had lost all water pressure - they offered to let us out of our reservation and go elsewhere - we immediately contacted Kathy to see what they planned to do and, once they confirmed we were staying, we checked into our room (we got a 50% discount) - afterwards, we got a ride to Grille 254 (Golf Club) and ate some appetizers with Bonnie and Kathy - we had a great time and rode back to the hotel with them on the shuttle (2245) - back in our room, we learned that the water pressure had returned - the girls watched some TV until around 2330, when we all went to bed]

Pearisburg, VA (USA)

As much as I have loved the AT hikes near Pearisburg, it was time to finish it up today. While waiting for Bob, I got breakfast at Hardees (0730) and gas at Clover Dew (0745). Bob met me again at 0800 near the Dairy Queen and we drove back to the same parking spot as yesterday (corner of Clendennin Road (VA-641) and Pocahontas FS Road. He then drove me back to the bridge over the New River (US-460) and I started NOBO on the re-routed trail section at 0815. It was foggy and cool when I started but I climbed very quickly until I was above the scud - the sun was shining gloriously as I climbed and there was no evidence of snow. The new trail was very nice - no rocks or roots. It seemed to parallel the property of the city landfill and there were some pungent odors! On the other side, I passed a series of fields with deer stands and I heard distant gunfire from time to time. When I reached the ridge, I started to get hot - and only had two layers to start - was very much enjoying the increasing temps! And then I started downhill towards my car and it got cooler again as I lost the sun. Just before I reached the road, I ran into Swiss Feet (Ryan), who had just (0945) started his climb from the place where I picked him up last night. The AT Thru Hiker purist in him forced him to go back to the last place he’d been... We chatted briefly and I wished him luck as he headed towards the Smokies. Minutes later, I was at my car. Mystery solved: the section was 3.5 miles, meaning the difference from VA-635 to the New River was about 19 miles - almost a mile longer than the 2014 trail guide mileage. Since I’m using that as my reference, I only counted 2.8 miles for the leg. Immediately drove east, headed for an unfinished section near Newport. It took me almost an hour to reach the trailhead on (gravel) VA-601 - I had to dodge fallen trees and precarious muddy tracks on the cliff side... There was actually a ton of ice on the ridge - startling after my earlier hike! As I was leaving my car (1045, NOBO), a young couple arrived and took the only other parking spot. I didn’t wear my backpack and just brought water and snacks. Layered up again and headed up a steep (and icy!) hill. After about three quarters of a mile, I reached a nice plateau. It was still icy but I wasn’t worried about falling for awhile. Encountered a white tailed deer and a father/son duo (with their dog) as I headed towards my turnaround point, Kelly Knob. I’d been in the area at dusk one day so had not seen the view. It was crisp and clear and I could see for miles. The lookout was a series of tall boulders, with nearly three feet between each one. With all the ice and the possibility of a very big fall in my mind, I only crossed one of the gaps to take some pictures. Was relieved when I was back on the access trail again (whew!). Headed back towards me car and made great time! After a long Fall with the sounds of fallen leaves to keep time with my steps, it was strange to hear the harsh sound of boots on shattered icicles. Passed a trio of day hikers with their puppies and found a packed parking area when I reached the car again (1230). My pedometer said I’d covered nearly eight miles for the day and I felt really good after my weekend of hiking in the snow. Dreading the drive home (because of the recent major traffic jams I'd seen each weekend this Fall), I took VA-601 to US-460. Just after I got on I-81, I found myself in a traffic jam (in Christiansburg). Stuck with the interstate and eventually made it to (near) Salem and found another back-up. Reacted by getting off the highway (used US-11) and drove all the way through Roanoke. Thinking the worst was over, I got back back on I-81 near Daleville and then hit another traffic jam near Lexington. Grrr... Finally had enough - got off on US-60 and drove east (through mountains). Had hoped to get on Blue Ridge Parkway (it was on the way) but there were trees down on the entrance ramp. Got on US-29 and drove all the way to Warrenton and Gainesville. Took US-15 to I-66, where I got a gas fillup at Sheetz in Haymarket (1745). Used I-66 and I-495 to get back to Alexandria. Stopped at Giant to pick up food for my company Thanksgiving Pot Luck (done at 1835) and was at my house before 1900. The only downer of the whole day was the drive back: am VERY happy that I don’t have to use this route again if I don’t want to... It was a great weekend! AT Today = 4.60 miles / G.T. AT = 1247.52 miles

Pearisburg, VA (USA)

What a day! I’d been waiting to hike a long section on the AT north of Pearisburg for several years - it was simply too long for my normal out and back strategy. There was also a major reroute of the trail in the area and I had a lot of trouble finding credible information about the mileage and terrain changes. I probably would have waited a few more years to hike the section but my friend Bob (local farmer) offered me a shuttle between two trailheads this weekend - so I seized the opportunity! We met in town at 0800 and drove over to the new trailhead on VA-641 that I’d read about online. Then Bob took me to where the AT came close to VA-635. I started SOBO at 0900, expecting not to see my car again for as many as 17 miles. In the first mile, I encountered three different hunters who were brazenly seeking prey on the trail itself. It’s funny, though: I never saw a single deer all day. I climbed up to the ridge-line, which also served as the border of West Virginia and Virginia - was hiking north for a few miles before heading “south” as I reached the intersection of the Allegheny Trail. The snow, which had been a thin vernier on the ground to that point, suddenly became a thick coat of white (over an even thicker ice layer) on every tree and bush. Some of them were weighed down so heavily that the trail was blocked. The forecast said the temps would reach 55 degrees but the winter wonderland I’d found was much colder - was very glad to have work three layers! I was in the fog for a few hours and wondered if the sun would ever appear. Didn’t see anyone up in the clouds but I noticed some footprints (going in the other direction), along with canine prints (going my way). At around noon, I finally started to see beyond the hundred yard bubble I was in - I could see pretty farms in both states. Then the heat of the sun started to loosen the ice from the tree tops - end result: “hail”! This second phase of my hike was a bit unpleasant, as I was soon drenched and started to feel cold. I encountered two Flip Flop Thru hikers going north - one was covered with a strange looking orange trash bag but was wearing tennis shoes and the other was wearing shorts (!!!). Caught a bit of their hiking vibe and pressed on. Passed some paper taped to trees on one of the balds - figured it must be related to the controversial Mountain Valley Pipeline that had been in the news last spring... After I’d reached what I thought was the halfway point (9ish miles), I suddenly realized another (very young) hiker was following me! I let him pass but kept up pace enough to talk to him (“Swiss Feet”, Ryan) for the next several miles. He told me he’d been having terrible nights - near hypothermic - and was dying for a warm night in Pearisburg, even if it required a 30+ mile day. After hearing this, I offered him a ride. But shortly after that, we arrived at the Rice Field Shelter (along with beautiful, sunny views on the bald). Ryan decided to stop for a rest but I kept going (he said he would catch up). Right afterwards, the re-routed trail section started - I could see the Celanese Plant just below me but the trail doubled back to the east, directly under the Shelter! From there, it was a frustrating series of switchbacks, greatly extending the trail mileage. There were almost no white blazes and several confusing trail forks. On the plus side, there was no snow and the trail surface was smooth and well designed. Was very surprised to find my car earlier then I’d expected (pedometer must not have worked correctly). Had thought about continuing to US-460 but still didn’t really know how far it was. Decided to call it a day at 1530. Waited for Ryan for a little while and soon heard loud shouting from the hillside. I learned later that he had found another ride and didn’t want me to wait - but when he reached my car and explained what happened, I gave him a ride anyway. Took him to the Angels Rest Hostel and wished him well - trail magic karma balanced out well! After I was done hiking, I went back to the Holiday Lodge and checked in (1655). Ate leftover pizza in the room and read my book ("On Trails"). Before going to sleep, I texted Bob to thank him and he offered to give me another ride in the morning! So I’ll try to finish the section when the sun comes up. AT Today = 15.30 miles / Grand Total AT = 1242.92 miles

Pearisburg, VA (USA)

[left my house at 1300 (early enough and had great weather) - took I-495 and I-66 to I-81 - snow everywhere - started to get a lot of traffic north of Harrisonburg - gas fillup at Exxon there (1510) - used US-11 to get closer to Staunton - eventually came to a complete standstill near Daleville - got off at US-220 and used Catawba Road to get around to VA-311 - then drove to New Castle and VA-42 - continued to US-460 and drove into Pearisburg at around 1900 - no hiking possible - checked into the Holiday Lodge at 1910 - walked around near hotel (to get my steps for the day) and ended up stopping for dinner at Pizza Plus (done at 2055) - they had a special "any pizza for $10" deal and I got a meat lovers supreme, along with a trip to the salad bar - enjoyed talking to the people who worked there]

Washington, DC (USA)

[bus and Van Dorn - work - walked to Navy Yard (1645) - met Greta for dinner at Gordon Biersch (until 1900) - she drove me (free Valet parking) to Arena Stage - we met up with people from work and had some cocktails - at 2000, "Anything Goes" opening night began (it was excellent) - we finished at 2300 - Greta drove me home - bed very late]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[work - Metro to Pentagon City - walked around in Fashion Center Mall (for exercise) - then went to happy hour with Stephanie at Sine (finished at 2020) - Metro home]

Washington, DC (USA)

[dropped Mollie off at school - grocery shopping - drove into DC (via I-395) and had special Veterans Day lunch at Gordon Biersch (1100) - then took a walk along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail (near Navy Yard) - got back in my car and headed home (via South Capitol Street and I-295)]

Triangle, VA (USA)

[Mollie was studying - went to get Veterans Day lunch at Missing BBQ (Hilltop) and then drove (via US-1 and I-95) to Prince William Forest Park (fee free day) - walked near Carter's Pond and then about three miles (and back) on the South Valley Trail - used VA-619 and back roads to get to VA-234 (Dumfries Road) and then took Headley Road and Dale Boulevard to Sheetz, where I got a free half sub and drink for Mollie - drove north on Ridgefield Road and then took Prince William Parkway and Old Bridge Road back to I-95 - all the way to Van Dorn Street (home by 1445)]

Mason Neck, VA (USA)

[Mollie was studying - at around 1100, drove over to Reza's house on Mason Neck to check on my kayak (it was fine) and then parked at the NWR - walked in both directions between Mason Neck State Park and Gunston Road - got lots of exercise and then headed back to the apartment (around 1400)]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[work - took Metro to Pentagon City - met Kelly for happy hour at Chevys - stayed until 1830 - then Metro home]

Washington, DC (USA)

[voted at 0600 - work - solo HH at Hill Country BBQ (free Shiner and a shot for voting sticker) - finished at around 1730 - Metro/car home]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[work - solo HH at Sine (after walk at Fashion Center Mall) - finished at 1730 - Metro/car home]

Shady Valley, TN (USA)

Gotta love the time-change - got an extra hour of sleep! Was on the road by "0600" but got hung up getting breakfast: McDonalds had trouble with my order, paying and the type of food. The end result, though, was that I got some upgrades on my McMuffins and free hash browns - I guess that's good... When leaving town, I debated which direction to drive (too far south and east and I'd have to take a different way home). Initially, I started to drive south on US-19E (to do a section near there) but realized that I'd be better off heading back north (so I could do more distance in VA). Decided to return to the AT trailhead on TN-91 (about 20 miles from Elizabethton) to close up a section gap that I'd left since I first hiked in the area in 2014. The weather was 100% different from the previous day - sunny, cool (but not cold) and much dryer hiking surface. With such a dramatic environmental difference, I only wore two layers (although I brought a third) and headed NOBO at 0715. Had to cross a huge field - full of cows - and had some interesting encounters with horned creatures before I reached the brightly colored tree line. I started a good climb as I got deeper in the forest, following an old road bed. It was much less rocky but there were still muddy areas. I ran into four SOBO Thru hikers (two solos) before I reached the mid-point, Double Springs Shelter - otherwise I was alone. They other hikers talked about how cold they had been overnight and that they were finding that the winter weather made it harder to keep the slower pace they wanted to hike. As I topped the ridge (~4.5K'), the trail crossed to the other side, where I was immediately blasted by strong, chilly winds. Brrrr! I was treated to views into Shady Valley and deeper into Tennessee on the west side - spectacular! The turnaround point was a challenge because I used to (2014, no AT Guide Book) make decisions about when to backtrack based on distance I'd hiked from the road. So my notes for this area said "1.5 miles south of US-421" and didn't note a landmark. Fortunately, I had cell signal for once and was able to gauge my distance from the pavement - the deja vu feelings about the trail surroundings (top of Locust Knob, Campsite) were present but I liked having an "objective" metric. Started back towards my car and found myself alone all the way back to the big pasture. At that point, though, everyone must have figured out that the weather was great for a day hike and I passed 10 people (including a cute toddler on his dad's back) in the last mile. Finished the section at 1115, after 10 miles (feeling great), and immediately got on the road to reposition for part two! After hiking the section in Tennessee, I drove north on TN-133 to Damascus. In my explorations yesterday, I'd located a few places where the AT crossed the "highway" east of town but had been unable to find where it crossed the Virginia Creeper Trail (cinder railroad bed, now a bike path). Got back on US-58 and navigated the stunning number of daunting switchbacks as I drove east. Fortunately, I had a lot of bike shuttle vans to follow and observe. Also, I was able to utilize my awesome Forest Service sectional map to narrow down the search and find a way to carve up the long section I've still got between Damascus and Whitetop Mountain. Got off the highway at both VA-859 (found Creeper Trail but not AT) and VA-728 (found Luther Hassinger Memorial Bridge, which both trails used to cross Whitetop Laurel Creek). At the latter location, I found a recreation area but there was no official trail up to the bridge - over 100 feet above the parking lot. Luckily, I saw some bikers scrambling down a steep embankment and managed to climb up to the trail above (1245). From there, I headed south across the river (barely missed being hit by a LOT of bikers) and located the AT. On this leg, I didn't carry a backpack (or any gear, for that matter). I find that it is nice to walk without the body strain sometimes and this section validated that idea again. From the bike trail, the AT plunged into the woods and then climbed up again steeply (but with some helpful switchbacks). I'd decided to try to reach the Lost Mountain Shelter, to set up my next hike with a definitive landmark. Passed a young couple out for a day hike but didn't see anyone else until I reached the shelter. There was a SOBO Thru hiker there - not chatty, all business. So I arrived, took pictures and headed back towards my car. Within a few minutes, he was following close behind. Unencumbered by a backpack and feeling fresh on the downhill return, I was able to stay in front of him for a mile or so - then he blew by me without any words. After that, I didn't try to "race" him... Finished up at 1430 after four miles (includes the backtrack). Headed for home, I drove east on US-58 and VA-603 until reaching VA-16. Got back to I-81 and headed north. It was pretty smooth sailing until I got to about 10 miles south of Salem (another traffic jam) - I hate I-81!!!! After getting off and back on I-81 a few times (to avoid completely stopped traffic), decided to get gas (1625) in Salem (Gobble Stop). Then took VA-419 and back roads west of I-581 to get on VA-117. Avoided the worst traffic and then got on US-11 until reaching Daleville. Made my way back on I-81. Talked with Erin several times on the way (about the delay) - it was basically bumper to bumper all the way to I-64(E). After that, I made better time. I arrived in Harrisonburg at 1855 and stopped at the Cracker Barrel for dinner. Erin joined me and we talked for about an hour (finished at 2015). After saying goodbye to her, I headed north from there on I-81 (there a little traffic even that late) and I-66 (much better). Narrowly avoided some nasty construction near Fairfax and arrived at my apartment by 2200 - whew! Loving the longer hikes, cooler weather, challenging terrain and the feeling that I'm only 50 miles away from finishing the nearly 600 miles of AT in Virginia! The biggest downside to my AT plans is that the distance of these zones from my house - six to seven hours of driving (as much as I like the open road) is physically draining. I realize this can't always be a "leisurely stroll" but have decided I need to focus more on Shuttle Rides to avoid re-treading distance when I have limited time. Regardless, I'm jazzed up and can't wait to get out on the trail for more! AT Today = 7.00 miles / G.T. AT = 1227.62 miles

Damascus, VA (USA)

My planned extra day of hiking was a bust yesterday (major traffic jams, steady rain) but the end result was that I was positioned a few miles away from the hiking zone this morning! After getting recommendations from several active friends, I decided to start using Emergen-C before my hikes (today was the first day). After using I-81 for a little while, I stopped for breakfast at McDonalds (0630) and for a gas fillup at Shell in Marion (0640) and continued on to VA-16 to the south. I was able arrive at the AT trailhead on VA-603 by 0715 (the sun was just peaking over the eastern ridges). With a thick frost layer on all the cars in the parking lot (full), I decided to layer up (3) before I headed SOBO. The frost became snow and it just kept getting deeper as I climbed up Pine Mountain. I soon came across tent campers and, by the time I reached the Old Orchard Shelter, I’d seen close to 10 people. Everyone I talked to was surprised at the snow and a few admitted they weren’t prepared. This theme continued throughout the day - I guess the campers’ weekend adventure plans didn’t include the pretty white layer over everything... I, on the other hand, loved it! Just over 30 days ago, I was sweating my @$$ off on the AT but today I felt pretty comfortable - perspiration was not an issue. I was very glad to have my new boots and thick skiing gloves. I only actually saw one hiker on the trail before I reached the ridge (5K’) but by the time I reached my turnaround point, I’d probably seen over 50 people. I think I passed at least 25 (including two hunters with rifles) going back to the car too! It was not a pleasant day but everyone was out - most were hiking a counterclockwise circuit that took them around the outside of Grayson Highlands State Park. Almost all of the other hikers were men - I only noticed two groups of ladies (near where the wild ponies were grazing). When I reached The Scales (holding yard for horses and staging area for riders), I found myself in a clearing with wide open balds in nearly every direction. The wind up there was COLD. I realized I’d sprung some kind of leak in my backpack and had the sensation of water freezing to my legs as it dripped - brrrrr! Dreaded the return trip as the icy wind was definitely at my back - started scheming for a different trail on the backtrack... Biggest treat of the day: saw four groups of wild ponies, all close to the trail and unafraid! As I approached the SP boundary, I started to encounter huge marshy, muddy areas - new boots (and lower 10 inches of pants legs) drenched. Also discovered that my recorded turnaround point was wrong - the error in location (map/guide to reality) was at least a mile. The terrain wasn’t too difficult so I hiked the section I’d claimed I finished previously. The end result, though, was that my outbound leg was 8.5 miles. I was feeling good, though, and turned around at the southern SP boundary with my mind convinced that I could get back without difficulty. It was mind over matter: ~2200 miles breaks up into 400+ hikeable sections and so does 8.5 miles. Cut off about two miles on the return leg by using the Chestnut Trail (wet, rocky riverbed!) to Scales. After that, I made good progress towards the car. Of course, meeting 75 unique humans on the trail required a lot of socializing! Everyone’s life story, motivation to hike and weekend plans were great to hear. Just before I was done (3:00, after 15.5 miles), the sun came out and started melting the snow - but it didn’t make much of a dent in the high ridge-lines, still snowy white from my vantage point on the road. At the lower levels, though, the colors of the leaves were revealed to be spectacular! Explored US-58 east of Damascus (planning for the roughly 20 miles I’ve got left there). Visited with Crazy Larry but his hostel was full. Instead, headed (used TN-91) to Elizabethton (TN), where I was able to check into the Travelers Inn by 1715. Ate dinner (again) at Amigo Mexican Restaurant (finished at 1930) and later watched football and movies. It was the night of the Fall time change (ugh) so knew that would affect the following morning. Excited for more AT tomorrow! AT Today = 7.50 miles / Grand Total AT = 1220.62 miles

Rural Retreat, VA (USA)

[driving to hiking zone - telework until 1300 - drove west and south via I-495, I-66 and I-81 - in addition to the normal rush hour traffic on the way, I-81 seemed to be worse than normal - bumper to bumper all the way to Harrisonburg - then traffic jams started - used Waze to find out how bad it was and decided to get off the Interstate - used VA-252 (along with several farm roads) to get through Staunton and south of the I-64 merge (ended up on US-11) - eventually got back on I-81 and it seemed like smooth sailing until it started to pour - had planned to hike near Blacksburg but gave up and continued south - drove until around 1800 and stopped in Rural Retreat again (Relax Inn) for the night]

Shanksville, PA (USA)

Mollie asked me if I could be a chaperone for her Criminal Justice Course Field Trip to Somerset County, Pennsylvania, so I took the day off from work and so I could go along! I woke Mollie up at 0515 and we ate breakfast (bagels). We then drove to the High School and met the Criminal Justice Class as they were getting on the school bus (0600). It turned out that I was not needed as a chaperone but the teacher said I was still welcome. One of the teachers/chaperones actually missed the bus when we left (0630). We rode on a big tour bus from Alexandria to (near) Shanksville, PA (I-495, I-270, I-70, US-30) - we got to use the Beltway Express Lanes and even stopped at a Weigh Station. We arrived at the Flight 93 Memorial by 0930 - it was much different than I remembered. I had taken Brenna and Erin to this National Park unit in 2008, long before the final memorial site design was ready and before there was even a real paved road to the crash site. Back then, the local people volunteered to interpret the event from their personal experiences on September 11th and there were informal memorials with lots of personal items stacked against a temporary fence. Today's experience was totally different: we saw beautiful landscapes, manicured lawns and paved walkways, along with a pretty grove of memorial trees. A new Visitors Center had replaced an old wooden shack we'd visited 10 years ago and it was filled with recordings of phone messages from the flight crew and passengers, along with many personal belongings that had been found during the FBI investigation. The Teacher set us up in a classroom with a great Park Ranger who gave a presentation on how the passengers decided to act to preserve their lives and, ultimately, at least one national building on that horrific day. He also had all the students do research with binders that included transcripts (of phone calls and voice recorder) and timelines and helped them sift through the available information to find true crime scene evidence. Mollie got a NPS Passport stamp and then we went back to the bus (1145) to eat lunch (turkey and cheese sandwiches, pumpkin bread) that we brought with us. The bus soon took us to another location. Our walk on the grounds, while very cold and wet, was moving and meaningful and we were able to get very close to the site where 92% of United Flight 93 is still buried. On the way out of the park (1300), we made a stop at the (not quite completed) Tower of Voices, that will eventually have one distinct wind chime for each person who died at the site. Overall, the trip was a great reminder of what was lost on that day and, I believe, made a strong impression on these kids that might one day begin careers as first responders. After leaving the park, we drove (backtracking our route) for about an hour and stopped at a McDonalds in Breezewood, Pennsylvania. We stayed there until 1430. Mollie and I were frustrated about the delay but the other kids loved hanging out and eating in the restaurant. Eventually, we got on the road and headed for home. The teacher put in a DVD for everyone to watch (“Monster House”) and we got back to the High School at 1640. I took Mollie back to my house so she could pack before going home. I figured that would happen right away but she called her mother to ask if she could stay at my house until 1800 (that was agreeable) and she ate dinner at my place. Afterwards, I wrapped up some pumpkin bread for her to take to her mother's and loaded her stuff (including the jack-o-lantern) in my car. I dropped Mollie off at Nicky’s at 1745.

Washington, DC (USA)

[riding bus - work - walked to Penn Quarter - farewell lunch for Rich F at Hill Country BBQ (1130-1230) - walked back to office - work - walked to District Wharf - met Greta for happy hour at The Brighton (1630-1800) - shuttle to L'Enfant - saw Kelly M there - metro/bus home]

Pawling, NY (USA)

It rained all night and the temperatures dropped a lot. I didn't leave my room until 0700 and headed into Pawling to have breakfast (La Guadalupana, ate in the café). At 0745, I found the trailhead on Old Dover Road (Dutchess County Road 20) and got ready for my hike. Before leaving my car, I paid homage to the Old Dover Oak, one of the two oldest (300+ years) trees on the trail (I already passed the other one in Virginia). Started SOBO, bound for the top of West Mountain (i.e., the ridge above the Telephone Pioneers Shelter). It was still very slippery and rocky but this section had plank bridges across the creeks (no splashing for me today!). I passed a lady (filtering water) and several tents in the first mile and then saw another hiker coming down from the shelter - otherwise, I was alone. The views were great from the ridge but it was very windy and cold - I wore a jacket all day. I had decided to split this section into two parts and only walked until I believed I was near Penny Road (found out later that I'd missed it by about 100 yards). Turned around and headed quickly back to my car, stopping only to chat with some campers and their dogs. Back in my car by 0915 (after about 1.8 miles out and back) and drove a short distance (via Old NY-55) to another trailhead on NY-55. Between 0930 and 1230, I hiked the rest of the section (3.5 miles out and back). It was hilly and the trail snaked in a frustratingly switch-back way (like most of New York) but the trail wasn't as rocky or muddy. In fact, there were at least two completely flat stretches where I made excellent time. I ran into a LOT of day hikers and a herd of Boy Scouts - probably more than 20 people out for a stroll near Nuclear Lake. One little boy told me he liked my hat. I don't think I saw a single section hiker all day, actually... One mystery: I saw a feline looking animal walking across the trail - I would have said it was a bobcat but it seemed to have a longer tail. It could easily have been a coyote, I suppose [Mollie told me later that she thought it might be a gray fox] - I didn't get a good view but it looked like a cat. The weather went between sunny and blue skies and back to overcast and ominous. Still, the second part of the hike seemed easier than the previous day - I was powering uphill in the last mile with no fatigue or soreness. It must have been the soak and soft bed - otherwise, I don't know how I'd manage with ankle, foot, knee soreness... One additional realization came as I reached the road - I finished all the AT miles in New York! Got on the road immediately and used NY-55 to NY-82 to Taconic Parkway, I-84 to US-209, I-80 to PA-33, US-22 to I-78, I-81, I-83, PA-581, US-15, I-270 and I-495 (with one gas stop at 1530 in Hamburg) to get home. Unfortunately, I've now got nothing left to hike that is closer than six hours north of DC. Will have to work on the remaining sections to the south and plan some three day weekends. Still, it was a great trip! AT Today = 5.30 miles / G.T. AT = 1213.12 miles

Kent, CT (USA)

Got out of NoVA before 0600, trying to outpace the rain... Used my normal route (I-495, I-95, I-695, I-83, I-81, I-84) to get to the Hudson River and the Taconic Parkway, with stops for gas in Cockeysville, MD (0710) and Montgomery, NY (1105). Was treated to views of bald eagles striking prey near the highway (two different places!) in Pennsylvania. Used NY-84, Dutchess County Road 21, NY-55 and US-7 to get to the hiking zone. It was much nicer weather after I crossed the NY-CT border and that validated my drive to the north. Continued on to Kent to finish my last AT section in southern Connecticut. At the trailhead (CT-341) by 1215 - the parking lot was packed! I encountered a lady hiker who was waiting for her Flip Flopper friend but headed out immediately (because I’d see them during my backtrack), SOBO. It was brisk but I wore a t-shirt all day (so glad it isn't hot anymore!). This section turned out to be one of the most mentally and physically challenging one I’ve done in a long time. For one thing, there were lots of rocks - probably more than I’ve seen since hiking in eastern PA. Add the mud and wet leaves (it had rained a lot), along with several swollen creeks (and no bridges all day), and the day required a LOT of concentration. Then there were three peaks/ridges to climb... Whew! Still, I feel like I met the challenge well - felt strong and energized - and ended up logging more than 12 miles (including back track and detours) of climbing and balancing. The section crossed the NY/CT border several times, so I got to see great views of the Housatonic River and Harlem Valley all day. Saw several deer and about 15 hikers of various kinds (day, section, LASHer, etc.) - met: Michael from NH and his dog (doing the same exact hike as me, two hours ahead), Flip Flopper Micah (who only had 15 miles of AT left to complete his Thru Hike) and Joe from West Point (getting re-started on AT after knee replacement). Turned around at the viewpoint on Schaghticoke Mountain. Was on the trail for over six hours and it actually started to get dark before I reached my car (1830). Because I'd made no plans, I had to make several phone calls to find place to stay. Ended up at the Dutchess Motor Lodge in Wingdale, NY (1900), a place I'd stayed a few times before. This time, I met hotel owners and their friends (that helped when I was locked out of my room. Ate dinner (pizza) at Cousins Cafe in Wingdale (2030). Exchanged a lot of phone calls with Mollie (she said she'd been worried about where I was). Relaxed in the room before going to bed. Felt very exhausted and numb - probably a good thing, though because my brain needed a wipe/wash... Hoping to find some trail stamina in the morning before I have to go home! AT Today = 5.60 miles / Grand Total AT = 1207.82 miles

Arlington, VA (USA)

[riding bus - work - met Stephanie for happy hour at Chevys in Pentagon City - Metro/bus home]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[Mollie studying - went to Mass at Fort Myer (to hear Kim play the organ) - stayed for Coffee Hour and later walked around in Arlington National Cemetery - rainy - so went home to spend more time with Mollie]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[took Mollie to school (newspaper day) - drove to Shirlington and took a walk on the W&OD Trail (between the Dog Park and Arlington BLVD - went back to pick up Mollie]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[Mollie at school - telework - walk at Huntley Meadows]

Arlington, VA (USA)

[riding bus - work - took Metro to Pentagon City for happy hour (solo) - finished at 1715 - bus home - Mollie there - watched "Solo: A Star Wars Story"]

Roan Mountain, TN (USA)

I slept late! It happened a few times this weekend but I'm going to let it slide - my room was pitch dark and I felt comfy and it was a holiday weekend. I ate breakfast at McDonalds in Hampton (0815). Once I was ready to leave town, I used US-19E to get back to Buck Mountain Road again - this time, I took Walnut Mountain Road to the AT (after passing the trailhead a few times). Started NOBO at around 0900 and was pleasantly surprised by a cool breeze along the ridge. There were clouds and the temperatures had not yet passed 80 while I was on the trail, which made the relatively flat section seem "easy." I didn't see anyone until I was about a mile from US Forest Service Road 293, when I encountered a local man and his dog (black lab) out for a short walk. I talked to him for quite a while, learning more about the shuttle service in the area, the remarkable value of ginseng plants along the trail, the delayed foliage and other events/trails in the area. After parting ways with him, I finished my outbound leg before heading back towards my car. I passed the man and his dog again on the way back, along with two other (Section?) hikers. It started to get hotter and I still had a very long drive ahead of me - was debating internally about whether to stop for the day or try some trail on the other side of the road. As I was mulling over the plan, I came around a bend where there was a huge tree blocking the path and saw a patch of black fur. At first, I remembered the black lab and wondered how he could have gotten so far away from his owner. But it suddenly dawned on me that it was a BEAR! And he realized I was there at the same moment. Seconds later, I watched as he ran away down the trail, surprisingly quick for his well-prepared-for-winter size (belly fat rolling along with his strides). Like so many of my animal encounters, I only had enough time to marvel at my fortune and regret missing a chance at a photo. Continued to the road and, after changing my shirt, decided to hike another few miles to the east. This part of the section was almost completely downhill to the Mountaineer Shelter. I dreaded the backtrack climb but didn't want to go home yet. Didn't see any other people but encountered some deer in the ravine below the road. This part of the trail was much more damp, muddy and covered in rhododendron bushes. I also got to see the leaves falling steadily (along with a branch that narrowly missed hitting me). After turning around, I made pretty decent time back to my car, fighting some pain, fatigue and overheating again. Finished at about 1315 after almost 10 miles. But I was glad I added the extra distance to my day - the longer drives make it imperative that I maximize the hikes when I get the chance to get away... Speaking of the drive: decided to cross the mountain into North Carolina on my return trip, picking up US-421 in Boone and using I-40 & I-85 to get to I-95. Got to talk to Bonnie during the drive. Made a stop for gas in Wilkesboro, NC (1500) and another for fuel and dinner in Colonial Heights, VA (1855). Much less traffic on this route than I'd been seeing on I-81, although it might be a longer distance. Regardless, I have that alternative (if needed) to get to/from the hiking zone again. Glad I made the trip into the mountains and look forward to another visit! AT Today = 4.80 miles / G.T. AT = 1202.22 miles

Roan Mountain, TN (USA)

Had a shuttle lined up for a 15 mile section today but my ankle was still not 100% so I reluctantly cancelled it. Instead, decided to hike shorter segments where I’d be close to my car. I ate half of my Subway sandwich for breakfast and then drove out of Elizabethton on US-19E to Bear Branch Road. Continued on Buck Mountain Road and my first stop was where I finished the previous night. I didn’t even take any gear because the hike was so short. Finished the AT between Campbell Hollow Road and Isaac Cemetery (0.70 new AT, 1.50 total, started SOBO) between 0920 and 1000. It was muddy and the heat was already rising but there was an added benefit to hiking here: scouting out the overmountain roads (best news was that almost all of them were paved!). I backtracked to US-19E and then repositioned to Carvers Gap (Roan Mountain), hoping to hike near Tollhouse Gap. Unfortunately, I learned that Roan Road is only open in the summer... It was also very crowded so I didn't stay in the area. So drove back down the mountain until I found another way across the ridge (Cove Creek Road to Hughes Gap Road). Hiked my second AT section of the day between the trailhead on the NC-TN border and Clyde Smith Shelter (3.10 new AT, 6.20 total, started SOBO) between 1120 and 1400. Had to climb continuously almost all the way during the outbound leg. The trail followed the border so every step was in an alternating state! Was actually going north as I hiked towards Georgia (frustrating). Battled fatigue, dehydration and ankle soreness but didn’t quit. Was rewarded with some of the best views of the Blue Ridge I’ve seen in the area - pristine hills with beautiful foliage developing at the higher elevations. During my backtrack, it started to rain. Fortunately, I had my poncho - that sometimes actually makes me feel hotter but the mountain breezes kept that from happening today. I hadn’t seen any other people on the trail all day but suddenly encountered six in the last mile: a Daddy-Daughter overnight camper pair, two older guys (Sections?) and a couple from Georgia (“Rafiki” and “Scout”) with their dog ("Mosby"). They were Section Hiking towards the North - picking up where they left off each time. Exchanged contact info so maybe we could help each other with shuttle rides in the future. Talked to them until the rain got too annoying to stand still - at least I was close to the car! After I reached my car, I drove back to US-19E and ate an early dinner at Taco Johns in Elizabethton (1515). Ankle had held up ok today and thought about getting out for a few more miles before dark - changed mind after laying down in my comfy bed... Instead, watched the Notre Dame football game and read before going to bed early. AT Today = 3.80 miles / G.T. AT = 1197.42 miles

Elizabethton, TN (USA)

Basically, I got almost no sleep last night (after only getting in bed at around 0200 and receiving some texts and calls from Brenna about the car). My original hiking plans for the weekend were therefore a bit derailed. Still, I wasn’t about to give up or leave my long week empty handed! After waking up in Rural Retreat this morning, I drove for about an hour (I-81, VA-91, VA-133/TN-133) to a hiking zone just south of the VA-TN border (MacQueen Gap), stopping for gas breakfast in Glade Springs, VA (0820). At the AT trailhead, started SOBO at 0915. Felt rusty & tired and it was warmer than I’d expected. Kept going, though, and found a familiar looking turnaround point from 2014 (north of US-421). Only saw three hikers (one SOBO Thru and a pair of Sections) but saw a few other cars on the narrow gravel Forest Service Road (in/out). During the backtrack, mulled over whether to go straight to another zone before the expected rain showers or wait until later in the day (I settled on the latter). Finished my hike at around 1145 (after around five miles) and headed towards Elizabethton (TN-91) to recharge. Checked into Travelers Inn in Elizabethton (1300) and unpacked/showered. Hoping to get back on track in the evening... After a power nap, I felt ready to tackle more trail! Drove about 20 miles to the southeast to tackle some hills on the North Carolina border - I’d been unable to locate the trailhead in the area when I last visited in 2014 (didn’t have a good map). Started NOBO from the parking lot on 19E at 1730, walking along Bear Branch Road initially so I could get a quicker start. It had rained in the area before I got there and everything was drenched and muddy. Ran into a dad and his three kids who were finishing a five day hike from Damascus - everyone was in great spirits! Climbed for over an hour and was treated to some amazing views to the east - tall peaks, shrouded in mist and building clouds. Saw a spectacular rainbow that was so vivid it didn’t seem real (camera couldn’t capture it clearly, unfortunately). Also encountered many of the ubiquitous rhododendrons that define the ridges in the region - they made dark tunnels whenever the trail meandered from fields into forest. It was much cooler than during my morning hike - there was a nice breeze too. Turned around at the Isaac Cemetery, just as the sun was setting, and had enough time to backtrack to Bear Branch Road with twilight (barely). Startled a few deer but didn’t see any other animals or people. The last part of the section was more difficult (rocks and routes) so I had to use my iPhone light to finish. Back at US-19E (and my car) by 2000 after almost seven miles. Picked up dinner (AKA lunch for tomorrow) at Subway in Hampton (2035) and then got ice cream at McDonalds (2040) nearby. Back at the hotel, watched TV and read before bed. Was definitely feeling tired but also felt recharged after my two sections today. Only downside was some ankle pain - not sure of the source. Will reassess tomorrow - can’t miss more trail days with such great weather, though! AT Today = 5.60 miles / Grand Total AT = 1193.62 miles

Harrisonburg, VA (USA)

I left my house at around noon so I could attend a Symposium where Erin was a featured speaker! There was a LOT of traffic on the way (I-66 and I-81) to Harrisonburg... As a result, both Brenna and Erin called me to ask where I was (“you normally aren’t late”). I arrived at Brenna’s apartment at 1430 and she drove me to visit the “IV House” that she’d told me about. We met some of the (7) girls who lived there and found out that Brenna would be sharing a room if she decided to move in. The location was convenient to Brenna’s classes. I did learn, though, that not all the girls were in IV, so I recommended that Brenna consider meeting the landlord and deciding whether the trade-off of location versus amenities and separate room was worth it. She told me that her current apartment rent was going to be reduced if she decided to stay. Brenna and I exchanged calls and texts with Erin and managed to arrive at the Festival Convention Center in time for Erin’s presentation (1525). Very proud of Erin - she presented a paper on the evolution of public opinion on LGBT issues (with a focus on Harvey Milk) at the invitation-only Conference! Her classmates spoke about topics in the area of civil rights leadership qualities and advocacy strategies. Even though the Conference was mainly attended by students, a few of us who were more “seasoned” added our thoughts during the Q&A... Afterwards, I met her professor and some of her friends. I then enjoyed a late lunch (complete with Cheer Wine) with the girls and their friends at Festival Dining Hall. The mealtime was fun and relaxed and everyone had a good time trying to figure out who the parents I’d seen at the Wake Forest football game were (a few weekends prior). At around 1700, we went back to the Twins' apartment complex. I gave Erin a toaster I’d brought from home and we ended up talking for a long time in the parking lot (about Erin’s interest in college internships). After that, we all got ready for the Conference Banquet and drove back to JMU (1815). We sat at a table with Erin’s professor, Austin and Elizabeth. The food was really good and the keynote speaker was too. Brenna really wanted to attend her IVCF Large Group as soon as possible but I asked her to give Erin as much time as she could before we left and she did. We ended up walking to the Large Group at around 1930 and I got to spend about an hour with Brenna at the event. She had wanted me to meet all her friends after the meeting ended but I told her I still had a lot of driving to do. As a result, we ended up leaving for her apartment at 2030. After Brenna dropped me off (she went back to campus to she could socialize with her IV friends), I visited Erin’s apartment briefly (to say goodbye and talk briefly about Thanksgiving plans). By about 2100, I was on the road again, thinking happily about how much I love the JMU Family Weekend! Unfortunately, the driving on I-81 was quite Hellish, with one 30 mile stretch taking almost two hours (construction). Got a gas fillup at Pilot in Raphine (2330). Before I was done, I also had to drive through pea soup fog in the New River Valley. Eventually checked into a hotel (Relax Inn in Rural Retreat) after 0200. Then Brenna started texting (and calling) about trouble with her car. I helped her and finally got to sleep (0300?). Whew...

Arlington, VA (USA)

[drove to Pentagon City (early AM) and parked at Bill's apartment - Metro - work - Metro - met Bill at his apartment at around 1700 - packed up car - went to Sine for (short) happy hour (finished at 1855) - drove home - Mollie home]

Washington, DC (USA)

After weeks of rain, Mollie and I awoke to sunshine and realized we should seize the day - so we headed to the National Zoo! We left my apartment at 0900 and, driving through the area near the Kennedy Center, arrived about 45 minutes later. We normally take the Metro but this time we used our FoNZ membership perks (free parking, discounts on food, free tote bag). For several hours, we walked around the entire place, enjoying visits and visuals on several animals we hadn’t normally seen. Mollie was able to get information about conducting an interview with one of the Pinniped Handlers (for a school project). We also learned some new things about Genus-Species-Subspecies. First time & special highlights today: cute animal babies (gorilla, panda, grey seal, orangutan) playing, elephant with huge tusks (“Spike”), Komodo Dragon, tiger swimming, Orangutan crossing O-Line and more. Before leaving, we ate lunch at the Mane Diner and then walked around the Zoo one more time. We really made the best of the beautiful weather and can’t wait to return!

Mason Neck, VA (USA)

[went kayaking (from Reza's) on the Potomac with Stephanie for several hours - had to clean up both kayaks because they were full of mud (and a mouse!) - enjoyed the nice weather and paddled up behind Gunston Hall - helped Stephanie find I-95 - arrived home at 1545]

Alexandria, VA (USA)

[after dropping Mollie off at school, took a nice walk in Huntley Meadows - went home to telework]

Washington, DC (USA)

[riding bus - work - happy hour with Greta at Plan B (finished at 1800) - Metro/bus home]

Winston-Salem, NC (USA)

[we woke up at 0500 and got ready for our trip to North Carolina - Mollie made breakfast (English Muffin) but didn't end up eating it - we left my apartment at 0545 and used US-1, I-95 and I-85 during our drive towards the Notre Dame-Wake Forest football game - Mollie slept almost the whole trip (!) - we stopped for gas near the VA-NC border (South Hill, 0825) and then continued on I-85 until we reached I-40 - continued west until reaching Business I-40 and drove to Winston-Salem (arriving at US-52 by around 1015 - in addition to encountering construction delays in the area, we had a lot of trouble locating the parking lot for the campus - we got parked by 1115 and entered the stadium in time to watch the opening ceremonies (Army Parachute Team - wow!) - we also picked up some lunch (chicken sandwich combo from vendors) and Mollie helped me pay with money from her Nielson Ratings surveys - the game started at 1200 - it was very sunny and hot but we managed to stay in our (good!) seats for the entire first half - we spent much of the third quarter in the shade (under the stands) and ended up being noticed by the mom (and dad) of one of Erin's old roommates from JMU (and Virginia Beach) - with more thoughts about getting away from the sun, we found a place under a shady tree where we could watch more of the second half - Mollie got herself a snack (Dippin' Dots) in the afternoon - with about 10 minutes left in the game (1510), we went back to our car and headed out of town (listening to the game on the radio as we drove) - I'd originally planned to spend the night near Grayson Highlands (VA) but Mollie said she had too much homework to be able to really enjoy more than a few hours of sight-seeing - knowing that, I decided to take her to Guilford Courthouse National Military Park (near Greensboro) so she could get a NPS Passport Stamp - we used Business I-40, (normal) I-40 and I-840 and arrived at the National Park by 1545 - after watching videos at the Visitors Center, we drove around the park and even took a walk to pay our respects to Nathanael Greene's statue - we finished our visit just after 1700 and drove a short distance to have dinner at Taco Bell (1705, ate in the restaurant) - we then backtracked on I-840 to I-40 - we used the latter and, later, I-85 to get back to Virginia, stopping for gas near the border (Oxford, NC) at 1900 - the weather was not very nice during the last hour of our trip (on I-95) but we managed to reach Alexandria before 2230 - we unpacked the car and went to bed almost immediately (around 2330)]