Day 28 - Camp at Unnamed Gap, Bluff Mountain to Hot Springs, NC
11 miles
Another sunny day, with warming temperatures.
We pulled out of camp this morning with the Cox family between 7:30 and 7:45 and we spent most of the day as a group, with Mossy, Beanhook and Flicka behind the rest of us.
Today was very enjoyable hiking, owing to the company, the weather, and the anticipation of a town stop and zero day tomorrow.
We took 3 breaks today, one long lunchtime break by the Deer Park Mountain Shelter, where I took a short "pack" nap.
I enjoyed our time with these families but there is always the added "happy" factor for me. The concern and worry for everyone's safety, wellbeing and "happiness". It's too many people to be concerned about.
Regardless of my concern for everyone's well being, it was a "happy" day coming into Hot Springs. I loved the sights and sounds of the town from the trail, the anticipation of town amenities.
Got into town a little after 2pm. We all got off the trail together and made our way to Laughing Heart Hostel. Three families arriving at one time was a bit overwhelming, there was a misunderstanding about the price per night. We were going to pitch our tents but our family was offered the chapel for a decent price, so we went with that.
The chapel is a nice space but I was in a foul mood, quiet and withdrawn, for a couple hours till I regrouped myself. I felt a little unsettled all evening at the hostel, like we were doing something wrong by being there, as a family. And yet our hosts, Chuck Norris and Baltimore Jack (who is working here for the hiker bubble rush) were quite gracious.
I just get tired of people and I know other people feel the same way about me. Going to bed tonight a bit insecure about our place as a family in the hostel environment.
