Back in the saddle again. After the usual packing confusion and leaving D & Cic’s house, Heather and I drove to at Reed’s Gap. The BBQ that Cic, Jerrie and D put on was quite the feast! It was well attended by J-Bird, Burning Boots, and Hershey, Rockhound, Hoplite, Wildcat, Dharma, Team Champ, Talks with Trees, and at least 4 other thru-hikers.

I only stayed until 11am, since Heather had a long drive north and I had some hiking to do. I’d gotten off the trail to the south of the hiker feed and had some miles to hike in order to catch up to my friends. Heather drove Wildcat and I back to our spot on the trail and Wildcat hiked into the woods while Heather and I said our goodbyes. I’ll see her and perhaps Tally again in southern PA. I was pleasantly surprised to find that Wildcat had waited for me on top of the first mountain and was good company during the hot (85 degree) afternoon hike.

I had a wonderful weekend (thanks for everything D & Cic!) and enjoyed my visit with Heather immensely, 2 months has been a long time apart!

My body feels the same—no more rested or recovered. No real pain except the continued pounding on my feet, so I am doing fine.

I have got a 20+ mile day tomorrow so it is an early bedtime (9:30) to make up for the lost sleep over the weekend. I’ll be hiking early tomorrow morning.