Back to the Trail

Written on June 27th, 2011

My time off the trail has finally ended, and it has been a whirlwind
of emotion as I return to the woods. Liz and Corbin's wedding was an
absolute blast. I was so excited for them, and I was excited to see so
many friends who I haven't seen in months. Though Julie was in the
wedding party as a bridesmaid, Liz's kindness allowed Julie and I to
spend some good quality time together. The majority of my time at home
was probably spent on my front porch with friends and family. I love
the home my parents have created for us to come home to. The fridge
was stocked with fruit, milk, orange juice, and many other things I
had craved. I also had time to work on my dental applications but
didn't get them completely done. Fortunately it is almost an entirely
online process, so I will just take an afternoon off soon and finish
them up in a random town.

Coming back to the wilderness has hit me with strange emotions. It was
hard to say goodbye to Julie because this will be our longest time
apart. I won't be able to see her until I return from Maine. It was
sad and difficult to part from her, especially after an amazing week
together. I have no idea how my sister said goodbye to her boyfriend
when he left for Afghanistan for 6 months. It's just so hard to do.

I'm picking up right where I left off in Pearisburg, VA. Since I left
off at mile 627, that means I have 1554 miles to go. I have set a goal
to finish around mid-September, probably around the 15th. With a few
"zero" days built in, that put me at a daily average of around 20.5.
Based on my ability so far, I think it an attainable goal. I want to
slow down in New Hampshire when my dad comes to meet me in the White
Mountains, and I am spending some time in New York City with friends.

Here are some random photos of the trail:

Julie and I having dinner in the trail...we couldn't find a flat spot!

Blackberries under the power lines

Panorama of McAfee Knob

Keffer Oak: Largest in the South on the AT

I am currently in Waynesboro, VA and will have another blog post of the past 11 days by tomorrow (7/08) Pearisburg to Waynesboro! VA is almost done...