Introduction

About Pathways

Appalachian Trail

Why Walk?

Make a Pledge

Hiking Schedule

Journal

Photos

Links

Acknowledgements

May 1, 2001

Tomas Knob Shelter at sunset. In attendance are section hikers Jeff from Utah and Jonathon from Falling Creek, a camp near Green Cove, Redneck who yellow-blazed (hitch-hiked, aka cheated) to be here tonight, Team Testosterone (the Shiners and Groundhog), Hip, and Little Guy. I got in a little over my head with sexist insults and had to back down some. They act like they never met anyone like me. Fender is the most fun to make uncomfortable, because he doesn't know what to do. I guess I can thank my Dad for that one.

Every trip to town is practice going back to the real world. I have a ways to go yet before I can mince the serenity of here with my perceived stress of daily life in the city world. I have both extremes down. Where's the middle ground? Damascus is a very hiker-friendly town and a lot of fun. I shared some beer with the Shiners, a group of three southern fraternity boys. Great guys. Despite what everyone thinks, I'm still not used to getting free beer. But I could get used to it.

I'm a little concerned about Redneck and his mixed motives on his thru-hike. It's Becca's birthday today, a friend from camp. Happy Birthday Becca!

Tomorrow morning I'll hike through the Greyson highlands and play with ponies. We're up at 5000'again, the tallest point in VA. I'm camped a short jog from Mt. Rogers, with spruce and fir trees abounding. There are gorgeous fields close by that people liken to the highlands of Montana. Hiking alone in the day, sharing in shelter communities at night. Breathe. Life is good.