Day 11

Dad's and My pack on Max Patch


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Max Patch: If you zoom in and look real hard, you can see the AT emerge from the Southwest and disappear into the woods on the Northeast side of the bald.

Day 11-

This ain't that bad. Rain again today. But my knee feels 100% better. I still don't trust it, but it feels better. Last night, in our tiny off-kilter shelter, I slept fantastic. Woke up twice to find the blackest night I have ever seen. I could not see my hand on my face! One wake was following an exquisitely derailed dream of Catherine's upcoming wedding. I was late because I was out climbing with no cell phone and they found a replacement groomsman. Looks like I'm having some cell separation anxiety. With only 11 miles planned, I'm in no hurry. My sleeping bag felt perfect this morning. I popped an advil and away we go. Up to Max Patch. What a climb! But what a view. I took some great shots of the rain clouds and mountains. We had lunch just before the summit and man do I love Hawaiian snack mix. It's funny the tings I have said I love out here. Clif Bars! I love Clif Bars they're unbelievable. Snot rockets, dry socks, coffee, oreos, snickers, bald peaks. Lots of things to love. My leg is not on my s-list anymore but I do not love it, not right now. Looks like we're bunking tonight at Roaring Fork w/ Pastor Dave, Mikah and two Frenchies: Dorian and Virginie. They were at Double Spring [shelter], Dad gave them our tarp. They recognized me by my slings that I use to hang my pack. They shared our disdain for the stupid CMC rise/fall lady and thought it peculiar that no one told her to STFU. They are each only carrying 7-8 lbs dry! Wild. Their trekking poles are their tent poles. Dorian made an alcohol stove out of a pop can. I need to learn to do this. He says there are how-to's online. They are very cool people. One day left for Dad. I think he has enjoyed the adventure but is ready to be done. He is looking forward to a hot tub in Hot Springs. I expect to sleep well tonight and feel even better tomorrow. Bet you it'll rain again ;)

Virginie Writes: 'encule le donneur' Explanation tomorrow, Translation rated PG-13



Virginie, Dorian, Pastor Dave and Mikah

*I planned this trip to fall between some pretty important life events, and it all worked right well. The day before I left for the trail, I was wearing a Tux, helping my friends Jeff and Beth start their marriage in Style. The day after I returned, I was to start my new job in Washington DC and then soon after I was to go stand in my Sister's wedding in Chicago. I'd decided to abstain from using my cell phone for the duration of the hike, which really was a lot easier than I thought it would be. Probably because I don't have any friends. Just kidding.

Max Patch was an AWESOME SIGHT! The rainclouds which were blowing at low level this day really made the landscape a beauty to behold.



Clouds over Max Patch



Dad hiking on up the Patch