The Beginning

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!)