It’s 5pm on a hot May day and I am baking outside the Rockfish Gap tourist information center. They have AC inside but I’ve hiked 55 miles since my last shower and I reek! My brother’s due to pick me up at 6, so for now I am just enjoying being off my feet.

Tomorrow marks the beginning of my third month on the trail, and one of the best experiences has been the thoughtfulness of the residents bordering the trail. While I sit here waiting for my brother to pick me up, I have had 4 offers for rides into town! I’ve also had one guy trying to convert me to the Baptist faith, but he was a nice guy.

Later –

This has been an absolutely surreal evening. A 5:30pm I was dirty & stinky. By 6:30pm I was drinking a Pilsner Urquell and eating some exquisite appetizers including a truffle/liver moose. Dinner was filet mignon accompanied by mustard greens, green beans & tomatoes in a vinaigrette, fresh bread, some great rice and an excellent shiraz. Jerrie & Jerry: thank you for your hospitality and absolutely amazing dinner!

My bro has been driving all over Virginia for me. He and Cic took care of my food drop as always and planned my next pick up on Friday evening. Thank you!