Lots of Walking...

Howdy, Folks!
Well, over a quarter of the trail is now behind us, with many more wonderful miles to go. I (Smurf) am currently writing from Wood's Hole, a truly amazing hostel about 615 miles down the trail. It's amazing to have a warm, comfy couch, a guitar to play, home cooked meals, and incredibly friendly folks to talk to. So, where to begin! I haven't even written a blog entry yet. I've been with Count the whole time, but I suppose I could add a little something myself.

This has been a truly amazing experience. I couldn't have imagined meeting so many amazing people and seeing such beautiful things, being in so many unique places. It's a great feeling to not know the day of the week, to not need to know what time it is, to have no defined responsibilities except walking and staying alive. Sure, plenty of the time has been miserable, who enjoys having every article of clothing soaked as you trudge up a hill that lasts forever? But for all the pain there is so much more to look forward to. After days of rain and fog, seeing sun and finding a beautiful panoramic view is the most unbelievable feeling in the world. After days of camp food, real food becomes an object of fantasy; numerous times we've found ourselves talking about food for literally hours at a time. And when we actually get to eat it, everyone is completely silent until all the food is gone. Man, life on the trail is good.

Virginia has been great so far! It's so much easier than the states before it. Gradual hills, miles of ridgeline hiking, and plenty of spectacular views. We've been averaging around 20 miles a day, more if we're feeling motivated, less if we decide to drink Four Loko in the middle of the day to celebrate 25% of the trail complete. Hiking after that...trust me, not a good idea. Anyway, we've been with a really great group of people. Count and I have been sticking with Backflip and Patches, and usually Trailmix, Scavenger, The Cops, and Feisty. We have plenty of friends close behind us, hope to see them again soon! It's such a community experience. Well, I could write plenty more but I think I've gotten the idea across...plus, dinner's cooking and it smells delicious. Time to go relax for a few and then eat obscene amounts of food!

Lots of love to friends and family, I appreciate all of the support. Until next time!

Smurf