Maine

It is so hard to believe that the journey is so close to being complete! Will called this morning to tell me all bout the beauty of the North "slapping him in face" on all sides. He shared that the there were cliffs and huge. house boulders that made caves and crevices to climb in and through. He said there was a carcass of a moose in one particular cave. He also saw a moose cow and calf a few days ago and was able to take a few pictures. One of the most interesting skills Will has developed is hunting with rocks. He has dined on grouse on two occasions by using this special talent. I am still wondering how he will work it in when he rejoins civilization.

Last night a group of seven pooled their money together and were able to procure a Lake House for the evening at a very reasonable price. They were treating to loon calls and a special showing of the Aurora Borealis due to extra activity caused by a solar flare. I must admit that after teaching about the Northern Lights for years I am a little jealous that he saw it in person. Still very proud and happy for him.

Will has been joined by his friend, Ethan. Not sure if he has a trail name yet. Ethan was hoping to finish with Will before returning to USC for his 2nd year but his feet are not cooperating. He is going to play the role of support today and allow the hiking group to "slack pack" from one location to another. That means he will carry the majority of the gear in his car allowing the hikers to go further faster.

Still no definite finish date but most likely between the 12th and 16th is my best guest.

Vermont is Beautiful

Will called this morning and reported all is well. He has been in some remote areas of Vermont and unable to charge his phone until today when they were able to hit a town for a resupply. He reported that they passed the 1600 mile tree 2 days and should make the August 10-14 finish with no problem. He is traveling with Castor, Corny and one other. These guys have been together off and on for a while now. They are in day 2 of a 5 day push. During that time they hope to get at least 25 miles in a day. It was so good to hear from him - he sounded great! He is so close to finishing. I am so proud of him!

Connecticutt

Will continues to make great strides to finish early August. In efforts to lighten his load, he mailed a shipment home to us. Just thought it might be fun to share the contents of the package.

1 rather worn, stained and smelly t-shirt

1 pair of stiff socks

1 empty blue dry bag

1 pair of gaiters with a broken shoe strap

1 aluminum water bottle

3 empty reusable plastic bottles

7 empty used zip lock bags - should I save those for him??????

Pennsylvannia section of the AT data book

1 tea bag

14 Splenda packets

2 pens

old used fishing line with a bobber, rusty hooks

2 books of JR matches

1 cigar band

What was he thinking?

Now in NY

I know it's been weeks since our last post and days since Will's last spot but I will try to get you up to date with a few lines today.

If you have been keeping up with Bowtie you know that he and Will are hiking separately at the moment. They both were glad to get out of PA - the rocks did prove to be everything people had said they were.

Will is traveling with Castor and a few others. They participated in "Hike Naked" Day to celebrate the Summer Solstice. Not exactly sure how long or how many people saw this but Will did say it was "weird" maybe that means he will not be doing it again anytime soon.

The boys crossed into NJ and made light work of that smaller section of the trail. They did experience some great trail magic. Along the trail they found a food box with a note that offered a shower, laundry, food and a place to stay. They called the number and were picked up by a man and taken back to his house for the evening. They were able to watch the Yankees and enjoyed good company for the evening. This is not a real hostel but this man and his wife usually take in about 60 hikers a year. The kindness of strangers still amazes me!

In NY Will has connected with his Aunt Rhonda who picked the boys up (along with I think 3 others) at Bear Mountain and took them back to her place for the night. She of coursed stocked the cabinets and made a great breakfast for the crew. They stayed with her Thursday night then Friday rented a car and headed back to NJ where they met Paul (Will's big bro) and a group of his friends and went to a Phish concert. I rec'd a txt this am and Will said it was amazing. Not quite sure if this will be another zero day with Rhonda or if they are heading back to the trail. I will try to post more often. Thanks for hanging in there with us on this journey.

Day 3 Boiling Springs, PA

After breaking camp the three of us left Pine Grove Furnace and set out for Boiling Springs, PA., our next meeting destination. We were fortunate enough to have a GPS and take all back roads to our next stop. THe scenery along the way was beautiful, with farms scattered along the rolling hills and barns that were all built in the same design. The barns were extremely large with towering silos attached to the ends. Wide grassy natural ramps were on each high side to allow cattle or wagons to enter easily. Most of the crops planted consisted of corn which would be used for feed for the cattle.

Once we entered Boiling Springs we were somewhat surprised to see the ATC (Appalachian Trail Conservancy) nestled in the midst of town right on Main Street. We soon discovered the trail actually comes directly through the town. Boiling Springs was a small, quite and peaceful town that seemed to be one of the best kept secrets in PA. We soon found the actual Boiling Spring from which the town was named - the locals called it "The Bubble." It "bubbles" out over 12 million gallons of water each day. The water temperature in the spring and the lake stays at 53 degrees year round.

As we pulled into the parking lot of the ATC we noticed one hiker already there. He didn't look familiar to me but as soon as Beth saw him she asked, "Are you Chewy?" "Yes, I am!" he exclaimed. Beth introduced us as DarkStar's family and explained she had heard alot of stories about "Chewy" and assumed him to be the one. Chewy is probably the most frugal hiker we have seen. No high tech walking sticks - just two wooden sticks. No expensive backpack with inner frames - just an old green military back pack - one that looks like it came from WWI. No special outer wear - just an old pair of pants with patches and a thin shirt. Chewy was amazing! If there has been anyone we have seen along the way with more passion than Will has exhibited this may be the guy! He loved the trail and was excited to talk about it.

We loved the small town so much we decided to just hang here all day while the hikers made their way in. We expected them to arrive somewhere around 5:30pm. We had about 7 hours to enjoy the town. Beth set up her "hospitality station" out of the back of her truck. As hikers arrived she fed them, each of them. Chewy finished off the Zucchini Bread. Afterwards we met two older gentlemen who were section hiking from Harper's Ferry to Delaware Waters. One was from Alabama the other from Asheville, NC. Neither knew each other and were actually hiking separately. Red Velvet cake for these two. Soon after came Maple and LongShanks. Maple is from California and Longshanks is from Montana. Both knew DarkStar and spoke well of him. Beth feed them as well. No more Red Velvet cake - its gone now! More hikers would arrive throughout the day. The Traveling Circus and their film crew spent alot of time interviewing the ATC director and filming around the lake. Beth fed them as well. Eventually we needed to head into a nearby town to re-supply our food. Beth whipped up some homemade Pimento Cheese to spread on sandwhiches and veggies. Tasty! Around 5:30 pm DarkStar arrived with 3 other hikers. Soon after Bowtie, Castore, Turkey, Thrasher and Spatchula arrived. Tanner and I were trout fishing and all of them stopped to join in. Beth got busy back at the hospitality truck and soon fed all the hungry hikers.

Bowtie and DarkStar said their goodbyes to the other hikers and loaded the truck with us - headed to Gettysburg for a lot of History and a little R&R.

Day 2 of Our Journey with DarkStar (Continued)

Before checking in at the Pine Grove Furnace State Park headquarters we decided to check out the town. First, the General Store - this is the home of the Famous Trail tradition of "The Half Gallon Challenge." THe challenge is for hikers. They must completely finish one half gallon of ice cream in one setting. Legend has it that the fastest time is 13 minutes. This record would stay in tack today as our hikers would finish but most would take three times as long.

We proceeded to the Hikers Museum. A small, older building that had recently held grand opening only yesterday. Volunteers worked the exhibits and had done a masterful job in re-creating some of the trail history and legend. THe most interesting exhibit I saw was of the first woman to finish the trail. She was a grandmother, 67 years old, carried a 25 lb nap sack over her left shoulder and accomplished the feat more than one time.

After setting up camp Tanner and I found a place to fish. We saw plenty but failed to catch any. Our attention turned back to the hikers as they began to arrive at the General Store. First in was Turkey and Thrasher who were well into the half gallon challenge. Soon after the Traveling Circus started the challenge and included this as part of their documentary. THe other hikers jumped in on the challenge soon thereafter with the exception of DarkStar - who never has been much of a sweet eater and possibly the smarter one in this decision. We sat around as everyone finished the challenge. As everyone finished the "Half Gallon Challenge" I commended the General Store on a great marketing strategy - no one in the state of PA sells more half gallon ice cream than these guys!

Will - being the only one without a belly full of ice cream - coaxed everyone into going swimming next. We all loaded into the truck and headed to the local lake that was set up like a beach, complete with sand, lifeguards and people who shouldn't be allowed in bathing suits. The group had a great time swimming and throwing baseball on the beach.

That night at camp we enjoyed a great meal Beth had been cooking all afternoon. Chilli beans with real beef tips, fresh salad greens and red velvet cake and zucchini bread. Will commented we should bless the food to ensure we would have enough for 11 hikers and the three of us. To my surprise we did. In fact some were able to come back for seconds. Perhaps the "Half Gallon Challenge" helped a little.

The evening was spent setting around the campfire listening to the trail tales. Along with Beth, Tanner and myself our guest included;

DarkStar - Will

Bowtie - Brian (Atlanta)

THrasher - (Atlanta area)

Turkey - (Atlanta Area)

Castore - (Boston)

Spatchula - (Boston)

Prophet - (Indiana)

Ring Leader - (New Jersey - Just passed Bar Exam)

Monkey - (New Jersey Ring leader's brother just finished Dartmouth)

Lightening - (New Jersey)

Traveling Circus Editor - (New Jersey)

We sat around laughing and telling stories, jokes, and just enjoying great company by the fire until around 10:30 pm. All at once everyone retired for the evening to their tents. With the weather being much cooler and Tanner's stomach settled this night - we all had a peaceful sleep. I think the ground was even softer here.

Day 2 of Our Journey with DarkStar

We woke the next morning to light rain. I don't think any of us slept very well. While we weren't accustomed to the hard ground, the hikers anxiously awaited the next Tanner episode.........luckily, that never happened.

Beth started breakfast. The hikers woke to the smell of bacon, sausage, eggs fried with onions and tomatoes and peppers, sprinkled with a little cheese. As they rolled out of their tents they immediately began breaking down tents and methodically packing their gear. As I looked on I was amazed at how all this seemed effortless for each of them, almost like they were still in a sleepy slumber, quietly moving around as they prepared for the trail that morning.

Originally, we had considered the idea of Tanner hiking this section of the trail with Will while Beth and I went ahead to Pine Grove Furnace to set up camp for the night. We were sure this would not happen as he was up last night sick. Kids will prove you wrong though as they are quick to recover and bounce back. Tanner wanted to hike and we agreed.

Turkey and Thrasher left first ahead of the others. Soon after Bowtie, Castore, Spatchula, DarkStar and Tanner left. The plan ----- hike to first road crossing somewhere around the 6 mile mark and see how Tanner is doing. If he needed to jump in with us he could, if he felt like hiking on we would meet him at the 12 mile mark. After the last of the hikers departed, Beth and I packed up camp, cleaned up the site and headed for town to re-supply our food.

We returned to Caladonia State Park and headed through the park to meet the hikers at our first check point. Will saved us some time by calling and assuring us Tanner was fine and wanted to continue hiking. We proceeded to the next checkpoint and parked. We hiked south on the trail about 2.3 miles until we came to the first shelter and found Turkey and Thrasher already there. Beth and I decided to hike on further until we met Will and Tanner on the trail. Soon after we crossed paths with the Traveling Circus. The Traveling Circus (Monkey, Ring Leader, Lightening) is a group of hikers who are filming a documentary about the AT and the hikers who experience the trail. Next came Bowtie, Castore and Spatchula. Just behind them was Will followed by Tanner. Tanner made the 12 miles without incident and looking good. Together we all hiked back to the truck parked 2.3 miles away.

On our short hike we were able to experience a part of what Will enjoys everyday and without the hardships the hikers endure. The forest was beautiful, carpeted with fresh green ferns and outlined with mountain laurel in full bloom. In a small distance and a brief bit of time, is all it takes to spark our imagination of what these hikers experience each day they are on the trail. In some ways it is easier to understand what fuels the passion these hikers exhibit. Without full knowledge of the difficulties they face, we often think we too could possibly do this some day.

With Tanner back in the truck and the hikers back on the trail, we planned to meet in Pine Grove Furnace State park for the evening. The three of us would set up camp and prepare for 14 hikers that night. More to come on this evening later.

Our journey from Richmond Hill, Ga to Caladonia State Park in Pennsylvania was a beautiful drive up through 7 states. As we pulled into the park the sight became Spectacular.............our hiker Will, emerged shirtless from the middle of a large group of people who were gathered at the park shelter to celebrate someone's retirement. We witnessed another display of kindness from strangers who do not know our son, but because so many have a love and connection to hikers, they freely extend their hospitality.

The following hour was spent catching up and setting up our campsite in the park. Will scribed a note out to post on the trail for the other hikers............."DarkStar - at campsite #115 come by." Tanner took the note and posted it to a tree along the trail. Before the sun went down for the day we enjoyed the company of several hikers (Bowtie - Brian, Turkey & Thrasher - husband and wife from Georgia, Castore & Spatchula - two bums from Boston and DarkStar - our favorite hiker.) Prophet stayed for a little while but later departed to catch up with the Traveling Circus - a group of hikers you will hear more about later.

Our night was fantastic! Beth had planned an evening meal, breakfast and the next evening's meal and had bought groceries accordingly. What she failed to calculate accurately for were two very important things - A) how many would be joining us for dinner & B) how hungry these hikers would be. The evening meal consumed two nights worth of groceries and would have wiped out breakfast as well if we had cooked it. We decided to save what we could for the morning.

We had envisioned setting around the campfire listening to hiker stories that night but the weather didn't allow. Rain drove us all to a covered shelter where Beth downloaded all of Will's pictures. We all enjoyed a slide show presentation with narration provided by Will. Our laughter must have caught the attention of others as the park ranger came down to check on us.

We packed up and retired back to our site and huddled under Will's tarp and shortly ended our night with everyone turning in. We only thought the night was over. During the middle of the night, Tanner woke everyone up as he staggered around from tent to tent looking for a good place to hurl! He continued to barf everything he had eaten the past week. I am still surprised we all didn't join him in a campsite barf-o-rama. It did make interesting breakfast conversation the next morning.

Reunion in less than 24 hours

I am eagerly preparing for our reunion with Will which will take place sometime Saturday in Pennsylvania. Good news - Will and Bowtie are together again after about a month of hiking with other groups. Brian left the trail for a short time to be in his brother's wedding and Will was able to do some catch up so they would be at the same spot when he returned to the trail. Our plan is to meet up around Caledonia Stat Park and spend one night there. Then Tanner may join the hikers to trek to Pine Grove Furnace for the second night. After that, we will give the hikers a couple of zero days in Gettysburg for a little Civil War history break. Can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!

Time for a Change

Here's the latest on Will and his AT adventure. He made it to Linden, VA where he picked up the latest mail drop. He said it was the "best" box yet. I was a little worried when packing it up since Rex and I were sitting in the post office parking lot packing it up. I thought the items would be too random to be useful but Will said it was just what he needed. I guess that is Mother's Intuition.

After getting the box and sharing the contents, Will moved on to Front Royal. He is doing well and is looking forward to our visit next week. I should back up and tell you he did have a bear encounter while in the Shenandoah. He was enjoying a hike when up ahead he spotted three bear cubs, knowing that Momma Bear had to be close he remained still and waited for the rest of his group to reach him. Sure enough, they spotted Mom not too far from the cubs and she created a spectacular diversion giving her cubs the time needed to climb a tree. Will and the others enjoyed the display from afar and says he got some pretty good shots of the Bear Family. Still waiting to see those but promise to add new photos when we get his old media card - a new card was one of the things in the box he received last week.

Will decided he would enter Harper's Ferry by water so he and a few others are on a three day Canoe Trip with Front Royal Canoes. I am sure he has been missing being on the water. Tanner and I have been missing him on the water for sure. Can't wait to hear how everything is going. More to come ~ Happy Memorial Day to everyone.

Day 66

Today marks 66 days on the trail................well not 66 days on the trail but 66 days since I dropped Will off on Springer Mountain. THere have been a few off days............days with no hiking, spent relaxing and mending sore feet. Two days recently involved a different kind of break............volunteering to work with a group dedicated to giving something back to "the trail."

Will felt giving something back was an important part of his overall experience. After "trail days" in Damascus, he along with other volunteers spent two days carving out new sections to the trail. I am not sure of the reason, but there were a few places along the trail that required repair. THe volunteers cleared trees, busted rock, and moved portions of the trail. He told me "it's the hardest I have ever worked." He went on to say he was glad he took the time to experience the work as it made him feel good about giving back. It's great to hear he is growing in his appreciation of life's greatest lesson........giving is blessing.......even when it hurts a little.

TOday, Will is in Waynesville, Va. camping outside of the local YMCA. With him is a hiker he has spent some time with when hiking from NC into Va. (Trail name Upgrade) There are several other hikers who are camping with him tonight. They all hitched into town from the trail together.

He seemed excited about entering the Shenandoah Valley tomorrow and expects to be in the Shenandoah about four days. Now that he has 853 miles in he felt he could be in Harpers Ferry by next Sunday. Harpers Ferry is the halfway mark on the AT.

He sounds good! After two days of hiking with a heavy coating of calamine lotion and looking strange he finally has gotten relief from the Poison Ivy outbreak. He has endured a few hardships on the trail but to me this has got to be one of the most uncomfortable aliments one would have to endure. It's all part of the experience. Through it all Will has persevered and continues to be full of awareness of all of the beauty around him.

Just today he talked about this gorgeous Diamond Back Rattler he saw as he took a moment (biological break) off the trail. Luckily he remembered my advice not to handle venomous snakes while on the trail, however he said it was tempting not to do so.

Beth packed a nice box and shipped out "Mom's Goodies" on Saturday. She sent it to Linden, Va. We talked about how this must be kind of like Christmas for these hikers when they receive a package from home. It led us to think about how those kids must feel when getting their shoeboxes from Operation Christmas Child. Inside Will's box was;

1. a new media card (so he can send us his.......we can't wait for his pictures)

2. Mom's trail mix

3. new recipes - complete with ingredients

4. que tips

5. one thermal pad (he will use this to make flip flops to use around camp and a seat cushion)

6. Probably some other stuff I can't remember

THis week we received a post card from Will that I will share with you;

"Man you would not believe how well the churches are treating me. I just got a medical screening and this really cute college girl washed my nasty feet. I felt terrible! I weigh 158 now and have 8% body fat. I have lost ten pounds in two months that I couldn't really afford to lose. I love and miss my family so much. I hope that I am making ya'll proud."

Actually, he has been doing that the past nineteen years.

Health Report

Will is enjoying his time in Damascus at Trial Days and I can't thank the FBC enough for everything they are doing for these hikers. He has bragged on the great meals and hospitality every time he calls. This morning he had just participated in a free health screening. He now weighs 158 lbs and and an 8% body fat. He seems to think he has lost about 10 lbs. He has reported his hydration levels were well within the acceptable range and there was nothing to be concerned about at this time. Great news!

Last night the movie Trail Angels premiered and how neat to see those who helped you on screen. There is a solid network of support all along the way. Who knew?

One bad piece of news...Dangermouse lost her wallet in Damascus. It contained all ID, cards and money and now there is a strong possibility her journey will come to an end. We are praying that it will be returned.

Will was getting ready to walk in the parade of hikers today. check out Trail Days online and look for Darkstar in the pics.

Catching Supper

WIll called today .............. three times!

Cell coverage is spotty in western Virginia. Each call was interrupted by poor cell coverage. Each call we talked about food. Will loves food and always has loved creating masterpieces. His first call was this morning around 10 am. He said he could hardly wait till lunch. He was so excited about eating lunch today. He had just resupplied a day ago and it seems he purchased some things that he felt would satisfy his cravings. The meals he prepares covers both ends of the spectrum......gourmet and gross. One interesting meal that qualifies as the later is instant oatmeal. He is now opening the end of the pouch, adding cold water, waiting a few minutes and eating cold, instant oatmeal. Why? To conserve cooking fuel. I am beginning to wonder if he will one day be able to survive without any modern camping luxuries. He has already shipped his tent, boots, compass, jacket, pants, etc., home to reduce weight in the pack. His pack now weighs around 25 lbs, most of which is food he purchased at the re-supply he hit a day ago.

THe last call of the day was this afternoon. More talk about food. This time gourmet! As Will hiked along the trail this afternoon, he was lured to the sight and sound of a nearby stream. As he walked along the stream's edge, he discovered some old fishing line hung in a tree. He found more around the area laying on the ground. He was lucky enough to find an old rusty barb for a hook. Next was the search for bait. Not much of a challenge.................catch a few crawdads and a mosquito hawk and he would be ready! Other hikers looked on. All were laughing as Will's line had five splices. The line he had collected, he joined together. Five knots, one barb, one long stick and a mosquito hawk later Will was able to score the main ingredient for his gourmet dinner tonight............one brown trout! Sounds delicious!

He hooked a much larger Rainbow trout but lost it when one of the five knots gave way as the fish snapped in defense.

When he arrives in Glasgow he has a package waiting on him that includes the following;

1. letter from Grandma

2. pre=packed dry food meals complete with recipes from Mom. (Mom's concocted meals not just add water and stir meals) these will be "gourmet"

3. One Kuba Kuba Cigar from dad

4. 10 meters of fly line, 2 leaders, 6lb tibets, assorted split shots, assorted dry flys and nyphs (he will be fully outfitted for fly fishing minus the rod - he can improvise.)

Will is still undecided on Trail Days that will take him back to Damascus for 2-3 days. He is torn with continuing to hike on or drop back for trail days. Explore more about Trail Days in Damascus by googling White Blaze. Trail Days sounds like a great experience but it will require a 200 mile trip back. He can catch a hitch to and from to get back on the trail exactly where he leaves it. We will wait to see what he decides.

We agreed we need to begin researching more about the bicycle trip home. Beth was able to find maps online tonight that would take him down the east coast from Maine. The maps are a set of 7 maps that actually cover the entire east coast from Maine to Key West. We thought we would only tell Will about 6 of the maps. That will get him about 2000 miles down to Savannah......minus the Key West portion. Next, we will survey the equipment to see what he will need.

We miss Will.........but rather than wanting him here with us.........we wish we could be there with him. We love fresh trout!

700 miles

50 days

700 miles

1/3 of the trail behind him

2/3 of the trail ahead

Will checked in today. It's great to hear he has reconnected with his early trail family, or at least in part. Danger Mouse, Stickerbush and SpeedStick aka Super Mike and DarkStar have reunited. It's amazes me how we struggle to sync our calendars, arrange appointments, schedule our lives and for the hikers there seems to be little stress in who is where and when. Will seems to be more carefree than before..............was that possible? Most of me is excited for him.......part of me is envious.

Will was able to meet Danger Mouse's Mom this week. She drove them into a small town where the four starving trekkers stuffed themselves. Will described it saying, Dad, we ate so much food and they kept bringing more out and we kept eating more. When we were finished we just went outside and laid down. Everyone agreed they actually felt better when they were hungry rather than being so stuffed. Thanks to Nora's Mom for seeing the kids got re-nourished!

Will was excited to hear from his bud back home, Ethan! He asked if we could bring him up with us when we head up to Pennsylvania. I think Ethan may hike a few days with Will while we are there.

Our conversation closed with Will revealing his plan for the final stages of his journey. He asked that we hike up Mt Katahdin, ME summit when we arrive. I think this may be around 11-14 miles. Of coarse that means a hike down of the same distance. We better start getting in shape for that is one experience I don't want to miss. He said I should bring my Touring bike with me when we come. This is a 15 speed bicycle built for long distances. It has capability to carry packs and gear and offers a great smooth ride.

Will is planning to ride the bicycle home from Maine.

We calculated together this may take around 30-45 days depending on the length of his stops. It may take longer. He also entertained another method of a southbound trip home but more planning and connecting would have to take place for that to happen. More later on that idea.

Personally, I like his cycling idea. His mother on the other hand has a few reservations. Either way............it's a great idea.

Every time we talk, Will ask about all of you! He sends his love and appreciation for everyone's support. We plan to mail his next drop to the Glasgow, Va post office.

Trail Angels Visit Will

As Will closed in on Friday's destination (Bland, Va) close to where I-77 crosses the AT, he and his trail friends were greeted by Nannie and Papa. Being a pre-planned rendezvous, it was not a surprise but it was a fantastic welcome to Will and the gang. Homemade chicken salad, ham, turkey, blueberry brownies and extra trimmings were just in time for these hungry hikers.

We were thankful to get a "motherly" update on Will and his feet conditions. Our concerns were put to rest hearing Nannie's perspective rather than relying on Will's. He tends to minimize issues, that could be for two reasons........it keeps us from being overly concerned and he is able to stay focused on his goal. The feet are fine, reports Nannie and Papa!

The trail experience is dynamic in many ways; the weather, the terrain, the elevations, the daily challenges and the daily rewards. Will's appreciation for the dynamics of nature continues to fuel his passion for the trail. Sore feet and the elements of weather are forgotten, in fact never mentioned when we talk. Instead, Will only speaks of the beauty he is discovering and experiencing in nature and in the people he meets.

Currently he is traveling with "Beefstick." Beefstick holds a Phd in astronomy and is headed to Toronto to teach after completion of the trail. He has completed a through hike of the AT before. Accompanying the two of them is a couple from Florida. Hopefully we will find out more about Will's trail family as he continues. Brian, Skyrocket, Tumbleweed, Danger Mouse and Stickerbush all are about 3 days ahead and making good time across Virginia.

Beth and I are planning a vacation around the first week of June to meet up with Will somewhere in Pennsylvania. We are thinking he may be just south of Harrisburg by then. He said last night he plans a 24 mile hike today. The nourishment the Trail Angels provided today should be plenty of fuel to get them there!

Mail from the Trail

I was thinking it may be fun to share a letter we received from Will today. The mail truck has brought 2 items from the trail this week.. The first was a box containing his down jacket and finger shoes. He switched over to crocs when he was in Damascus having the blister crisis. The second came to day and it looked like it almost didn't make it. Will sent an envelope with a letter and a camera media card inside a plastic case. The envelope was ripped in half with one half totally missing. The camera card and case was in tack. I am waiting til Rex gets home to check the pictures. It looks ok.

So here's the letter:

Dear Family,

I hope all is well on the home front. The changing of seasons is probably the coolest part of hiking out here. You literally wake up to greener woods than you went to sleep in. on the camera card you will notice the change, I just wish you could get the same feeling I get when I take these beautiful shots. We are supposed to be getting nasty weather this weekend so I'll have to really try to stay dry. My feet still need some healing but I think sometimes that they forget who is in charge in this relationship. They should just do what they are told. Hey I love and miss yal everyday and I hate I can't mow the grass for yal this summer.

Love,

Darkstar AT 2010

The weather he mention was last weekend and I think he was pretty wet and cold. I am glad to see that his sense of humor hasn't changes. I will try to get those pics posted soon.

Waiting in Damascus

Hello to all - Here's the latest - Will has spent the last three days in Damascus, VA with terrible blisters. He completed a 40 mile trek into Damascus on Tuesday only to wake up Wednesday in agony. Red and swollen his feet were screaming, "Give us a break!!!" So, that is just what he has done.

He saw a doctor on Thursday and she suggested taking a hiatus. That did not settle well with Will. So, he has spent three days in Damascus and Rex and I are wondering if he has found a second home. He called tonight to report going to a local auction. What a great small town experience! I don't think he bought anything.

He did receive a package today after couple of trips to the Post Office and a local Outfitters shop. Here's what he received:

1 pair of new socks

letter from grandma

dehydrated fruit

trail mix

8 Q-tips that may last him 2-3 days, now he can stop re-using the ones he had

1 Cigar - from his father

1 book of JR matches

letter from mom

4 pictures of Tanner invading his "space" while he is on the trail

Starbucks, splenda, and coffeemate singles

new water-proof Verizon phone

New media card for camera

1 new trail shirt

He seems to be recuperating and plans to hit the trail tomorrow for Atkins. His plan is to do at least 15 miles tomorrow so let's hope his feet hold up.

The rest of his trail family has moved on, they do have plans to re-connect up the trail at some point. Will has others who have filled the gap he mentioned a couple of new names tonight and his spirits still remain high. Rex and I are so thankful this set back occurred in Damascus where the local churches are acting as true Home Missionaries. He is staying in a hostel provided by a Methodist church and Rex was able to make contact with several First Baptist Church members who personally checked on Will and got back in touch with him. We both found this to be comforting since we are not able to be there ourselves.

Damascus, VA

It's been a while again - sorry but now that Will's phone is broken the help dates are much harder to get but here is what I know right now.....

The group seems to be hanging together for the most part. Will may be pushing a little harder that necessary but he has always only known one speed - wide open! He may be feeling the effects of that today. Yesterday he completed a 40 mile trek to get to Damascus, VA. So that means GA, NC and TN are now complete. But, I got a phone call this morning from Will who reported that the blisters are bad and maybe infected. He even used the "D" word ... Doctor. Still waiting to hear if he did get to see one today. Rex has told Will to get another pair of shoes and hopefully that may help. He switched over from boots to running shoes two weeks ago when we were together but now those shoes are too small. I think I heard your feet will change sizes after completing the trail so I guess it is already happening.

Anybody got any great remedies for blisters?

I will keep you posted ~ Beth

330 miles down

Spring has hit the trail and all creatures are starting to move around. Will has been able to catch a few snakes this week, tried a little fishing and caught a newt or two. The others in his family are referring to him as Steve Irwin's replacement but I am sure Bindi has that spot locked up.

The group has made it to Erwin, TN and are making good time. Brian's shins and Will's blisters seem ok now. I am just praying that they both continue to heal and grow stronger.

The group is really looking forward to hitting Damascus, VA. They say that is the spot to change over winter to summer gear. That may mean the packs get a little lighter. Damascus is also a good place to send mail to Will if anyone wants to do that. You can find directions on whiteblaze.net as well as lots of other interesting info.

Will's story today was of his frugalness. Instead of spending $6 to stay in the hostile he decided to sleep under a bridge near a road. He was awaken by a fly fisherman wading in the Nolichucky. He also found it amusing when he and Skywalker bathed with soap in the river and looked up to find a group of research students from ETSU wading in the river collecting water samples. Probably going to be some interesting test tubes in that laboratory!

I received an email from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy which stated that there have been 644 hikers have started the trail from the South Terminus - Springer Mountain. Can't wait to see how many of those actually finish. I think I know of at least 7 that will!

The Smelly Ride

There we were all packed in our truck with the 4 hikers sharing the back seat. They told us "trail tales" about their shelter stays, prepared meals and individuals they have met on the trail. My favorite was of "Dr. Evil" I don't know if that was his trail name or just what the kids were calling him. He is a lawyer who is "Slack Packing" the trail. We saw him in Hot Springs carrying a garbage bag. Slack Packing is carrying just bare necessities and moving from hostel to hostel and having supplies mailed in. It is more expensive to slack pack but remember he is a lawyer so money must not be an issue.

Once at the cabin the hikers were able to shower and I along with my 8 year old niece Kari went to do laundry in town while Rex and Mom went to the grocery store. Rex was determined these guys and girls would not go hungry. At first I thought they bought too much but you would be surprised how much food they consumed. The first night was hamburgers, hotdogs, beans, chips. That was the first dinner. The hikers were able to get one more in before bed.

So Friday morning was Breakfast by Rex. He loved cooking for us and I loved letting him. Between him and mom I hardly had to do a thing. It was a great vacation. After breakfast we headed back to Hot Springs with Super Mike, he was meeting his girlfriend who was joining him for some hiking time before she leaves for school in Hong Kong or Japan (Rex and I are disareeing on which it is). We enjoyed listening to Super Mike's phone conversations in Russian. We were also meeting Bowtie, Danger Mouse and Stickerbush and bringing them back to the cabin.

Hot Springs is such a quaint town, I highly recommend a visit if you have never been there. the French Broad runs right through town and on main street you will find an outfitters, laundromat, post office, hardware, dinner, library, and Sweet Imaginations. This place has amazing milkshakes according to the hikers. both Rex and I were too full from breakfast to induldge. Bowtie had entered town and stopped at the very first diner for a hamburger - I just realized that is what he had for lunch and dinner that day, oh well, I don't think he minded. Danger Mouse and Sticker Bush were at Sweet Imaginations. SB had just received a package from his mom with tons of food and other supplies so they were happily going through mail and sipping shakes. I think SB consumed two.

I forgot to give you the details for the new hikers - Bowtie, aka Brian, is healing from shin splints so he has compression socks and shorts on. His beard is really getting long and full. He is the hiker that Will has been with the longest. Sticker Bush, SB, is Jake from Park City, Utah. His family owns a couple of restaurants in Park City and he has a degree in Film. Go ahead ask him any movie and he has probably seen it plus he was a regular at Sundance. Danger Mouse, Nora, is so super cute and has a killer giggle! She is originally from New Jersey but is in Utah now for school. She talked Jake into the hiking. Now we have officially met the "trail family" and I think it is safe to say I totally approve.

We are heading home today so I must get off this blog and get busy or Rex is going to kill me. More to come later!

The Visit

I know it has been a while since we blogged but we were having so much visiting we couldn't make ourselves write. We picked Will, Super Mike, Gilly, and Skywalker up Wed, afternoon in Hot Springs, NC. It was a feeling that is pretty indescribable when I first saw him walking down the sidewalk. The AT passes right through the small town so we were parked at the library just waiting for Will to arrive. A couple of hikers came into view but as they got closer I could tell it wasn't Will. Then a shirtless hiker came into view and I knew it was him. I ran up to meet him with tears in my eyes. Great! That's all I can say about that.

Will introduced us to a few of the members of his new family. First, Super Mike. Tall, born in the Ukraine, moved to NY in 1991, 1 younger sister. Gilly and Skywalker are brother and sister from New Hampshire. Gillian is Will's age and Skyler is 22. Both went to a private boarding school but were day students and both work at a restaurant. The other members of the family were a day behind due to going to Knoxville but we met them the next day - more to come about them.

We loaded the four hikers into our truck and started out for Johnson City, TN to meet up with my parents at the cabin. You can't imagine the aroma of four hikers in a closed truck for an hour. I had to crack the window a couple of times! They smelled pretty bad.

Here's the truth about the Wildlife Encouter

That was all Rex and it was an April Fools prank. I am just glad that this years prank didn't include me! Will has talked of deer on the trail and moving through the shelter areas. They awoke the other morning to a herd that just hung around while everyone was waking up and getting breakfast.

Yesterday was a pretty tough hike through waist high snow! The group made it up to Clingmans Dome. It is one of the highest points on the trail. The air temperature was warm so that was good. The snow was hard packed in some areas but Will said he would sometimes sink in up to his chest.

After the Clingmans Dome summit they went down and caught a shuttle to Gatlinburg to re-supply. It was great yesterday afternoon when we talked on the phone but not so good later in the night. In the afternoon they had a great shuttle provided by a new Outfitters store and they even took the group to an area where they could shower. Somehow they missed the shuttle back to the trail and had to spend the night. They had to find an affordable room and found that not everyone is as welcoming to hikers once they get off the trail.

Will called this morning and they were waiting on the shuttle to get on the trail ASAP. He said there may be bad weather coming so they want to get a jump on it. More to come later!

First Wildlife Encounter!

Over the past two weeks it has been easy to understand the excitement in Will's voice each time we have talked with him. The calls are becoming fewer and farther between as he gets more comfortable on the trail. This morning's conversation was by far the most thrilling and one that I am thankful I was able to even have with my son!

Last night as Will and his hiking companions ended their day they were all tired. Too tired in fact to spend much time setting up camp. The bad weather looked imminent. As a group they agreed to nestled themselves inside a cave and out of the exposure to the elements. THis would save them valuable time and energy as they were able to just bed down, stay warm without unpacking. THeir morning would be easy. All they would need to do in the morning was roll out.

Everyone slept well. Probably because of the exhaustion from the hike that day. Will estimates Wednesday's hike to be around 16 to 17 miles. Early this morning before the sun rose, one of the other hikers was awaken by a noise in the cave. THe first thought was one of the other hikers had a terrible snore. As he continued to listen closely, he quickly discovered the sound was not a snore, nor was it human! He woke the other hikers, who by the way were sound asleep, and they were startled to find they had shared a cave that night with a BEAR!

The Bear obviously was moving slowly, quite possibly in a hibernation state. It moved slow enough for the hikers to get out quickly with incident or injury.

I have never heard the kind of excitement in anyone's voice as I did in Will's, as he called me shortly after 6 this morning to tell his story. I am thankful for their safety. But I am also thankful Will had the experience..... one he will never forget!

Will finally called this morning around 8 am. It was great to hear his voice and enthusiasm after a few days without contact. He explained the weather may have prevented reception and prohibited his "Spot" from transmitting his coordinates. After leaving the Nantahala Outdoor Center Monday they managed to trek to the Fontana Dam by Tuesday evening. According to Will the terrain was rough and even the downhills presented challenges.

Will was saddened by the injury sustained by one of the "elder" hikers his trail family had hiked with off and on. A seventy-six year old hiker had fallen and broken an ankle. He told the others he wished he had hike the trail earlier, for now he's OK and rescued safely from the trail. Perhaps next year he will make the trip.

The amusing part of our talk today was going over Will's supply wish list items. Will called out a litany of things he wants us to bring him next week as follows;

1. His black running shorts
2. His Red Mizzuno Running Shoes
3. The Blue Back Pack he just mailed home last week

So what's so funny about that list? For one, he wants the back pack he sent home to lend to one of his trail friends. I told him he is so much like his mom, always looking out for others. But the funny part was just visualizing what he will look like with Red shoes, black shorts and a back pack strapped on! Hopefully I can post pictures of that later.

Will is absolutely loving his experience. His passion for the outdoors and God's creation is totally being fed in abundance. He appreciates the opportunity that's be afforded him. He appreciates everyone's care and concern and prayers.

Looking at Will's location on the "SPOT" link you can see they are in Tennessee. The trail traverses back and forth over the Tn & NC line for a while as they cross through the Great Smokies. Will spent some time on this part of the trail back in January. THe area should be fresh on his mind however I am sure the landscape has changed as winter has given way to spring. ***Update*** Beth just listened to a AT podcast and heard snow is on the ground with more coming for the Smokies.

Our family is eagerly awaiting our time to see Will next week! I anticipate great stories. I look forward to the scenic pictures. But most of all I I can hardly wait to see our son and and give him a big hug! (After we get him a shower!)

Mo News

We've all heard the saying that no news is good news, right? Well I pray that is true in Will's case. I am sure that Will is experiencing a bit of deja vu as he hikes through areas he has visited as a child. We will see him Wednesday and he hopes to be through the Smokies before we arrive, That looks like a long way! Hopefully we will here something today

ZERO Day!

WIll called Saturday excited about the ZERO day he had coming on Sunday! A ZERO day is a day of rest for the hikers, a day to heal sore feet, tend to blisters, allow the knees to rest and re-group and re-pack for the next segment. Will says his "hiking family" will all take the day of rest and relaxation, everyone agrees it is much needed. If you are following along on his "Spot" track you will see no movement today. But there are some days Will shows no movement as he seems to be conserving his "Spot" batteries. Clicking on Brian's "Spot" location will give you a better idea of where the boys are. Brian has been faithful in clicking on his "Spot" location.

They reached the NOC (Nantahala Outdoor Center) yesterday afternoon. This is an outdoor adventure center that is friendly to the hikers and offers outdoor excursions to visitors who come. I am not sure if the boys will decide to white water raft today, we wait to hear. I am watching Will's banking account closely as the NOC has a "Gear" store with lots of shinny stuff. I am trying to preach conservatism but I know my son!

We are estimating the guys have about 140 miles in now. Will spoke of the challenging terrain they faced yesterday. He spoke of the deep gaps and some tough downhills they traversed. This was interesting because earlier in the morning I pointed out to Tanner on the Topography map the guys faced some tough downhill terrain. Back home we are enjoying plotting their trek on a map, something I think Will will enjoy seeing once he returns.

Will continues to talk about his "trail family." As Brain's blog mentions they seem to enjoy "Stickerbush" and "Danger Mouse" and "Caveman" and their company. Their trail friendship seems to be a mutual benefit to everyone. Hopefully we will have the opportunity to meet these characters when we meet up in Tennessee in 10 days. I can hardly wait to trade photo cards with Will so we can share his pictures with you followers SOON!

For me............I am needing an appointment with my financial advisor and building up our 401k so Beth and I can do this SOON! If I disappear with Will 10 days from now I promise I am on the AT and not in Argentina!

Insights

Well - 100 miles down and oh the lessons Will has already learned. The first hundred seem to be driven by pure adrenaline and anticipation of what is to come. Rex and I were both privileged to phone conversations today as well as Nannie and Papa Kirk, Grandma Rhyne, and Great Nannie Free and probably anyone else Will could get a hold of. The boys have made it to Franklin, NC and I am sure it was a little bittersweet for Will. He had one of his best buds with him for the past few days and Jimmy had to return to Milledgeville and his real world today. Jimmy called once he was entering ATL and he reports Will is great and definitely finishing his trek. Jimmy loved the adventure and is already planning to hit the trail himself as he nears finishing school. The thing Rex and I enjoy the most during our phone conversations with Will is hearing his tales about the people he meets. Today he shared a hitch on the back of a pick up truck with a deaf hiker. They communicated by writing notes on a pad. We can see growth in his appreciation of people. I don't think Will ever thought he would meet so many old folks on the trail. We can sense a new passion in his voice as he describes each trail encounter. He told Rex today, "I love the people". The trail definitely sounds like it brings out the best in people I pray that remains true throughout the rest of Will's journey.

Will was able to get his first mail drop in Franklin. He missed one box he requested us to send a little too late to receive today but the PO is forwarding it to the next location. Pretty sweet huh? We will see Will over Spring Break somewhere near NC and TN. Future mail drops will be discussed and I will post addresses so others can send words of encouragement.

Sounds like they are still eating good. The weather sounds pretty wet for the next couple of days but they were able to enjoy some sunshine today. Still taking lots of pictures of the scenery - so we will have tons of pictures to post after we see one another.

Continue to keep the boys in your prayers and thanks for following along on this journey.

Spoke with Will today via phone! He said they got in around 10 miles today. They are close enough to civilization to go into town. Will and 5 others have rented a hotel for the evening. Everyone chipped in for $12 a piece. He said he was looking forward to an all you can eat Chinese Buffet. Will said the weather has been rough. He said it seemed as if they were in a weather cloud since yesterday. The temps have dropped and it is snowing. A good time to get a room! Their current location is Hiwassee, Ga. I am worried these boys are going to gain weight over these next few months. I guess there will be sections where food is not as plentiful.

When I asked Will if he was taking enough pictures to share with us he said "yea, but not of scenery.......I am taking pictures of the culture of the trail....the people......that's what I find most interesting." I can't wait to see!

Walk on Guys!

Joined by Friends

The weekend has past and there have been friends joining in for section hikes with Will and Brian. Brian had two friends join them for the weekend and now Will's, friend Jimmy is with the thru-hiking pair. Rex and I are amazed at how everything seems to come together. The boys are able to orchestrate hookups with friends and arrange the friends to ride together from point a to point b and even shuttle one another around. I wonder how many paths will cross for people who would have never met if Will and Brian hadn't started this journey together. We believe God has brought the pair together and is walking with them every step.

Plans are to make Franklin by Thursday night. Will talked today about rain and cold temperatures. No snow yet.

Mail goes out today to Will. Contents;

1. Journal book

2. NC Map

3. 2 bandanas

4. 2 packs of instant Starbucks coffee

5. 2 packs of sugar

6. Mom's special trail mix

7. Letter from Grandma

Sending to Franklin , NC Post Office

Spoke with Will yesterday......he said he has his pack down to around 25lbs now! That's good.....if you look ahead into NC there are elevations that exceed 6600 feet. The lighter the better!

Trail magic - Gotta Love it!

A phone call!!! Finally connected to Will via phone today. He is still so excited and super pumped. He and Brian were hanging out waiting to meet up with some more hikers for the weekend. As luck would have, a methodist church group was there at the shelter grilling burgers for hikers. Will talked about eating three already. I tried to remind him he had only been on the trial for 2 days. What will it be like when he hasn't seen civilization for a week? Thank you to all for the support and prayers. We are getting his first mail drop together for Franklin, NC. I think he has mailed something back for us in hopes of shedding a few pounds. Can't wait to see what he thinks he can live without.

Day 2 - 12.4 miles today/27.5 miles total

Borrowing from Brian's page, I will keep you updated to their daily mileage and the total miles. Sounds like the guys are making great time and meeting some pretty interested characters. Who know they would all be so old???? Guess those hope for Rex and myself. Will did get his spot working so I was able to link it to this blog. Pretty amazing piece of technology. Click the Where is Will link and it will draw a map for you showing his trail on the trail. The boys will have a short day of hiking tomorrow and their first re-supply. Hoping that means a phone call.

Day 1

Wow - Will was able to get in about 15.1 miles for the first day. I know this because of Brain's blog. Rex thinks that is good since they really didn't get started until around noon. Will's Spot doesn't appear to be on or working at the moment hopefully it hasn't falling off somewhere. I am beginning to wonder if it didn't get cut due to weight? I hope to here from Will in a day or two at least to ask him about it. Very happy to hear there were so many hikers at their first shelter. Brian reported it was full with at least at 10 or so tents around it.

Tracking Will

Will's fellow hiker has a blog and he also has a Spot Tracker. You can check their progress on the trail by clicking the link Where is Brian on his page. The blog is linked to my page - it is called Through HIS Feet.

The Beginning 3/17/2010

The Beginning - Of what you may ask? A 2,000 plus mile hike. My son, Will Rhyne, has begun his journey on the Appalachian Trail. For those of you who know Will you know this has been a long time coming. He was so excited today as his dad took him to Springer Mountain, GA to begin his adventure. My intent with this blog is to keep family, friends, and those interested in adventure informed of his journey.

Will set off today with a fellow hiker he met through a Thru-Hikers seminar sponsored by REI of ATL. Will and Brian seem to be good traveling companions. Brian is 27 years old and is taking a sabbatical from work to hike.

Will weighed in his pack at the Amicalola Falls Ranger Station and came in right around 32lbs. At the start of the AT, Will and Brian were greeted by a "guardian" of the trail. He is 80 years old and spends 10 straight weeks each year greeting and registering North Bound Hikers as they start their journey. He was a thru-hiker himself at age 68. What a cool old dude!