Harpers Ferry and 1/2 way done

Wow, it’s happened in the blink of an eye. I’m already half way done. I’ve walked straight to the back door of my house from Georgia. Pretty sweet. So many experiences, stories and kindness along the way, including my parents!

I showed at the house with 4 other hikers. Although it was after dark, my parents busied themselves cooking and socializing. It was a great time indeed. Awesome. I was ready for some time relaxing and catching up with friends.

Almost neither got accomplished. We ended up hosting more hikers for several nights and I found my time being spread thin among many different tasks, none of them resting. Not that the 5 days at home weren’t wonderful, because they were, but also not what I expected.

In about 4 days I basically accomplished:

Burgers/hot dogs/corn on the cob/baked beans/fruit salad/sodas and beer EVERY NIGHT.

Dad, Left Field and I set up trail magic about 20 miles into Maryland. A cooler full of almost every fruit I could find at the grocery store, sodas and ice cream. It felt pretty awesome to give some trail magic of my own. I know dad loved it considering he had the “best tasting apple” he’s ever eaten when we got trail magic at a shelter in Virginia.

Late night camp fire and booze with my home town buddies. Not everyone is around or could make it, but those who were here had a good time I think.

Visiting BonzNRio in his psuedo hostel outside Harpers Ferry. If you want to meet a truly genuine hiker angel, check out Bonzo’s back yard.

World Cup matches (both incredible and saddening) and movies

Resupply and reorganize for the 2nd half. Mom sued one of my old ninja turtle sheets together to make a light weight and airy sleeping bag. I can’t wait to use it. It’s been so hot at night there’s almost no reason for a sleeping bag. Ninja Turtles should do the trick.

Hang with moms and pops (sort of mixed in with everything else).

My visit at home has been amazing. I love this little mountainess/farmy/river area. Harpers Ferry and the surrounding country sides are very special. Everyone’s energy seems to be positive and ambitious. I hope anyone who visited my home felt as if it were one of those special times they’ll remember from hiking the Appalachian Trail. I know my parents want it to be that way. They are very supportive and respectful of anyone hiking the trail especially after each hiked with me in Virginia.

Time to move forward and really take advantage of this pilgrimage!