Introduction

About Pathways

Appalachian Trail

Why Walk?

Make a Pledge

Hiking Schedule

Journal

Photos

Links

Acknowledgements

August 1, 2001

p.m.

Vermont mud is undoubtedly the best mud I've ever encountered. It's a deep, rich black. And although it's deep, it's tacky and doesn't bog you down or stick to your boots like less mud in other states.

Last night I dreamed that we were having a family get together to memorialize the time when Mom almost died. JJ was sitting in a tree and was, in fact, hiking a different sections of the AT. I woke up briefly to a feeling that someone had touched my knee. Nobody was sleeping that close to me.

Two nights ago I dreamed that JJ was getting married. I was getting ready for the wedding by putting makeup on, but I couldn't put on my eye makeup because I was crying inconsolably. Kelly was there scheming about all the things she could borrow from me. And Mom was there holding Kelly at bay and giving me comforting looks, letting me know it was okay to be upset and that I could be for as long as I needed. I have no doubt that Mom is here with me now. For about a month, I couldn't feel her as close. Maybe I just needed to open my heart again. Sometimes I feel her as Mom and sometimes I feel her as the spirit or presence or unified feeling that we all share.

p.m.

What a spectacular day. A swim in beautiful Clarendon Gorge, complete with a suspension bridge, jumping cliff, rapids, cound rock mazes, and a leech on my foot. A milkshake at the Whistlestop Cafe, where Murph's friend works. Treats left at the shelter by Murph. Missing book returned by Frankenstein, a cool NoBo. Talking with a Green Mountain Club trail crew hard at work breaking rocks. Meeting new people. The promise of the Inn at Long Trail and Long Trail Ale tomorrow night with Lonshanks, Blur, Frankenstein, and Johhnny Aussie. Walking a fulfilling 15 miles today with people who care enough to check in with each other. Walking on ridges covered with soft pine needles, long shadows, and late afternoon sunshine streaming in long shafts through the spruce and fir above. The fresh crisp smell of Christmas with every step. Moose droppings in Southern VT that look like three days of wet dog food from the green IAMS bag. Today was a wonderful, full day. Quite different than 2 days back, this morning Pogo said I might be the cheeriest person on trail. On that note, a very content and sleepy Noggin wishes a very merry g'night to all.