August 13, 2004

Vermont has been given a nickname by thru-hikers.  We call it VerMUD.  I broke camp by 9:00 a.m. today with soaked gear.  The steady rain which was soothing to sleep by took its toll on my tent and everything in it!   My hike today was muddy and rainy.  I enjoy the diversion of plants and animal species while hiking in the rain.

I hitched into town early in my hike to purchase a much needed trash compactor bag to use as a footprint.  I borrowed Bear's last night because he slept in the shelter.  I hitched back out after my stop in Danby, VT to complete my 16.1 mile hike.  I was preoccupied, in thought, because my daughter, Brittany and husband Bruce, are in Moultrie, Georgia for the 2004 Speedo Junior National Diving Championships.  I prayed they are safe from Hurricane Charley's path with each step that I took. 

My biggest fear during my 2,174 mile hike is there would be a communication breakdown in the event of a family emergency.  That's why I chose to carry my cell phone.  Unfortunately, I have not made contact with Bruce.  I'm being positive...No news is good news.  Good Luck Britty!  Enjoy the journey.  I love you!

"I have learned that love does not end, not even with death;

it continues to express itself in ways ever new." -James E. Miller