3/20/03
Weather has been crazy. Foggy/40mph winds, hale. Not a clear day yet. Nothing has been worthy of a picture as of yet. Although it has been raining, hiking has been very comfortable. Stayed at Neels Gap last night. Have been meeting very interesting people. I’ve seemed to find pace with 2 guys – Dave from Washington State & Leming from Austin, Texas – North Bound Leming is his trail name. Everyone has a trail name. I don’t yet.

The weather is supposed to clear in the next few days. I will be taking more pictures then. Most people spend the first week or so sorting through their stuff trying to drop pack weight. Every little items adds up and when your walking through this challenging terrain, you want to be as light as possible. I could stand to make a few adjustments, but overall I’m satisfied. My average weight is 45lbs. I’ve seen some get it down to 25, including food. That’s some pretty ultralight gear.

The people that didn’t make it past Neels Gap – well most I should say didn’t know what they were getting themselves into. It’s not surprising that half drop out there. 80 lb. packs, lack of preparation and poor fitness level are some of the causes.

Typical day this far – hike, set up camp by 4 or earlier, eat, clean, in tent or shelter by 6, sleep. Once the weather shifts I’m sure the nightlife might be extended by an hour or so. Walking 15 miles every day is tiring – even if your not sleeping by 7 you’re definitely resting. I’ll be in Franklin, NC in 5 days. Pick up another mail drop and take a day to relax. I’m on a pretty good pace. Proper rest is very important to avoid injury.

3/21/03
Praise the Lord. The sun came out today. Saw many incredible views at last. (Pictures 1-6: All in GA, beginning with big Dave breaking down camp and ending with a sunset & setting up camp. The thin long-haired fellow is Leming.)

A little sore today, as to be expected. I’ve met so many people it’s hard to keep up with all of their names. Everyone is extremely friendly and helpful. It’s a true community and everyone looking out for everyone. Everybody stops off in different places along the way, so it’s unlikely that you would walk the whole way with one person.

Travelling alone is a dream. You stop when you want, you’re not waiting for anybody. You meet and spend short periods of time with people, chatting and listening to their stories; all at your own pace. Groups often have conflicts and if one leaves the trail, the other is usually not far behind.

For more information on this portion of the trail, visit the: Georgia Appalachian Trail Club (www.georgia-atclub.org)