Log 4-11 to 4-14

I wrote about arriving in Vernon, but not about what happened to me there. I had read about the hiker's hostel at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, but it does not open until June. I thought, it's Easter, maybe the Pastor will be in a generous mood.

I arrived there at dusk and the church was dark, but I saw lights in the Parsonage. I knocked. The door opened and a sleepy face looked at me and said, "May I help you?"

I told Steve Steele, the pastor, my plight. He looked me over and then said, "follow me."

We walked to the church and the man turned the building over to me. He introduced me to a shower, a washer and dryer and an online PC and then left. I washed my body and my clothes and checked my email. A very generous and trusting man; I shall not forget him.

Next morning. I found the Post Office and mailed more things back. My pack weight which started this hike at 48 lbs. is down to 36 lbs. Also bought some groceries.

Noon. Hitchhiked back to the trail and hiked to the Wawayonda shelter, only about seven miles, but on the other side of a very steep mountain. Tough climb for me.

4-12. Had my first shelter-mate tonight, a 64 year old cowboy missionary from Minnesota. Ken Downey is an interesting guy. He rode a horse from Quakertown, PA to Seattle, WA. Then he rode another horse from Louisiana to Minnesota. He drove the routes in advance and planned all of the rest stops, etc.

4-13. Miserable day. Hiked twelve miles in pouring rain. Ugh! In New York State now and spending the night at the Wildcat shelter. Ken is here too. He's hiking into Arden tomorrow to pick up mail drop (food) from Post Office that closes at noon. Ten miles away; he will have to leave very early.

4-14 Ken decided he couldn't make the P.O. before noon, and we agreed to meet in Southfield, NY tonight and share a motel room. Give us a chance to dry our clothes--everything is wet and heavy--and he can pickup mail in the morning.

Afternoon. We are in the Tuxedo Inn and the motel manager is washing our clothes. Life is good.

Comments

[Annice]

I forgot to get the blister update! I've mentioned my great business venture idea to several people. I think it's a winner. I'll sell franchises, little kiosks all along the AT, carrying neosporin ointment and gauze pads for sale to you hikers. I'll name the franchise "The Heel Healer". I can picture the $$$ rolling in! Take care. I hear the sun is shining today.