Sunrise was absolutely amazing this morning, highlighting an apple tree in bloom about 100 feet from our tents. Rockhound & I took our time getting packed up and hit the trail just past 8. We knew today’s 20 miles would set up easy days through Monday, but we were in no hurry to get it done.

The best part of todays hike were the irises in bloom beside the trail – the first we’d seen on the trail, and the waterfall we found 7 miles into our hike, as well as the place we had an early lunch. We ran into Slips and Fitz, as well as Gumby, Gear Guide, and Gumbo.

The trail got real ugly and rocky for a while in the afternoon. My feet ache and are still real tender from last week’s long miles and hopping on sharp rocks for hours was not fun. The fact that the signs said 1.3 miles to shelter were totally fictitious and didn’t help either! Creative math has no place on AT trail signs! By the time we hit the shelter, Rockhound was on the war path and my good humor was fading quickly.

We met Poptart here, cooking quesadillas over a fire and grate (good idea!) I’m looking forward to a late start and an easy 12 mile day tomorrow. I am hanging out with everyone late tonight, munching on snacks and reading. It’s only 8½ days until I get to see Heather and Tally!