Day 11, July 10, 4 miles

What does a hiker do when she takes a Nero? She walks. It’s ironic, but you end up really hiking another 3-4 miles off-trail.

I left the hostel this morning after a free breakfast of brown rice and scrambled eggs with onion bread. And yes, it was delicious (everything is good when you’re really hungry). I said goodbye to Michele and Rosie at the split-off where the Long Trail and the AT part ways. She would have been a great hiking companion, but she had her goal and I have mine. She is from Maine so I tried talking her into walking home, but no go. I hiked 4 miles to the next road and then had to walk up the road to get to the highway. Then, walked east to get to a pick up point and got a ride to another little motel ( that smells of cat pee) to rest today in my own, quiet room (with the exception of the road noise). This little hotel doesn’t have a restaurant, so I have to eat out of my backpack or walk to dinner. Guess what I chose? I should eat out of my backpack to lighten my load a little, but a little variety is always nice—so, I decided to walk to dinner. Of course, this is after I’ve laid around eating M&M’s, Snickers, and Cheetos. I can finally do that without feeling bad about it one little bit. This is about the only time in my life I can eat anything I want, and as much as I want, and still lose weight.

I even took a nap today, which is unheard of for me. It was nice! Now, if I only had a traveling massage therapist, I’d be golden.

Three of the hikers at the hostel last night have Lyme Disease and are on antibiotics. Another one hurt his leg and will be taking a few days off, so the little bubble I was in will change. It’s nice to know where people are even if you don’t hike with them. It’s a little comforting to know that someone is within a day or two of you.

Tomorrow, once again, will begin with a steep, 1000 ft. climb within 1 mile and then a steep 1 mile decent, which wouldn’t be too bad if it weren’t for my little Olfrie on my back. Yep, I’ve named my backpack Olfrie (short for Old Friend). Thanks, Karen, for the name suggestion. It’s a good one. Olfrie and I have had a couple serious conversations the last few days. I like her when she drops a few pounds, but she’s a beast when she gets full or wet and thank goodness she’s dry right now (looks like I should stay dry until rain comes back Mon, Tues & Wed—yoohoo–longest dry streak yet), but she’s stuffed to the gills cause I just filled her up again.

After getting up and over the first mountain, the day looks to be full of PUDS, but hopefully not too many steep ones. I hope to get a full 9 or so hours of hiking in tomorrow. I think I should be getting pretty close to NH. Looking forward to getting out of Vermont and getting to the White Mountains. All I hear is how rough the Whites are. I’m a little nervous about getting there, but I’m quite anxious and excited to tackle them. And, I’ve hiked now for well over 100 miles without any real views. NH views are suppose to be spectacular. Can’t wait.

It’s been a great, relaxing day. It feels odd not to be walking all day. Laying around eating and sleeping could be dangerous for me. Better get back to it tomorrow. Got to get to Maine.

 J