Back in the woods...if only for a short time...

Felt so good, and weird, and normal. But not. We met lots of thru-hikers, both NOBO and SOBO's and it was strange not to be one of them. When we came across trail magic, we passed, because we felt like that should be for those that are out there for the long haul! 

Met up with Murphy in Manchester, NH and we drove to Hanover. The trail goes right through Hanover and as ridiculous as it may sound, I got kind of teary when I saw my first white blaze!! We shuttled up about 35 miles from Hanover and started hiking back. Southbound! Gasp!!!! It felt strange but familiar.

We hiked 16 miles the first day. Up over Mount Cube and Smarts Mountain. Searched for the spot where we had to throw our tents up in the pouring rain as we ran down from Smart Mountain fire tower in a thunderstorm. Laughed a lot. Ended our day at one of those uniquely wonderful AT spots, the home of Bill Ackerly, retired doc from Cambridge, who is witty and welcoming. 

We got to Bills fairly late, so we set up our tents out in the field behind his house .

After leaving Kansas with almost 100 degree temps and 90% humidity, the chilly night air was incredible and I slept great. Great to be back in my tent!