Tue Apr 8, 2014 @ 17:00

Day 9 - Deep Gap Shelter to 76.3 mi campsite (spring to the west)

10.3 miles

Day started overcast and cleared to become sunny, beautiful and dry, which we especially appreciate.

Today was our longest mileage day and it felt like it.

I was tired today partly because Tenacious Bling didn't sleep so well last night. She woke often, crying out incomprehensible mumblings. I was hyper-aware and vigilant to shush and calm her because we were sharing sleeping space with many other hikers.

This is one reason I don't like sleeping in the shelters. It's not just my own sleep I am concerned about, but everyone else's.

We enjoyed the company of Red Hawk and Bloodroot tonight at our camp and this morning it was a lot of fun to share a morning campfire with Preacher, Ken, Trail Lobster, Viking, SOG and others.

The camaraderie of the shelter made up for the soaking wet day that preceded it and brought us all together. We shared the misery, we share the comfort.

So far in our hiking experience, except for our brief stints with the Kallin family we've hiked alone and it gets boring. The social stimulation of connecting with other hikers at camp is something to look forward to during the long day.

I was cranky today, probably because of my tiredness. Afternoons seem to be the worst, when all I want is a mug of tea and a nap in the sun.

We will be increasing our mileage tomorrow and crossing into North Carolina.

I'm sharing the Hilleberg with Laurent and Celine tonight and I am so thankful to be in my bed, ready a good deep sleep.