Hiking Trail Journals

Appalachian Trail 2003 - Chelsea's Journals

Entry #47 - May 12, 2003

OK, Mellow Yellow and Blink Blink forced us to go the 26 miles - well, not quite. Got up late Sunday, around 7:30 or 8, and headed out about 9. About 15 minutes into it, it started raining. A bit later it was pouring, and we finally decided to get our raingear on (after we were soaked). It was good to hike in the rain, though - nice and cool after such hot & humid weather. Made it 8 miles to the first shelter by noon, and at that point figured we should try for the whole 26 miles into Damascus. Somehow we made it to Abingdon Gap Shelter (another 8 miles) by 3:00. We were quite impressed with ourselves, so at 4:00, we began the last 10 miles into town. Made it in before 7:30, and were able to enjoy the FREE spaghetti dinner hosted by Sheepstuff, another thru-hiker. We just made it in time, and were extremely glad to chow down. The dinner was at the Methodist Church and we ended up going right across the alley then to "The Place," a hostel owned by the church. It's a big house with bunk rooms, a kitchen, bathrooms and common rooms that are available for hikers & bikers (bicyclists). There is no "constant" caretaker, but a guy who checks in daily. We have our tent set up on the lawn, along with others. Took showers after dinner, and then went to the Old Mill for a few beers.

This morning, Andy woke up feeling ill. Around 10 or 11, I convinced him to walk up to the laundromat & the Cowboy Gas Station/Deli for breakfast. I ordered the Hiker's Special breakfast, he had toast. He ended up heading back shortly after, and then rested in the tent all day. He seems to have some kind of stomach flu. While he slept, I did some errands during the day - groceries, library, etc. I even did a couple of "chores" here at The Place - took out garbage & cleaned the kitchen a bit.

This evening we both attempted to go & eat @ The Sidetrack Cafe, but Andy had to leave soon after ordering. I stayed a bit longer & read the paper. Seems there are people starting to show up for the festivities. I'm not sure whether we'll be able to get on the trail tomorrow or not.

Hopefully, Andy will be feeling ok...?

Next | Previous | Index