Schmitty's Place: Forgot how hard it is starting out

4 November 2018 Sunday

Awoke this morning the birds singing, jack frost, and another train whistle. Trains run all night long through Boiling Springs. Other than that had a great nights sleep. I tried posting some pictures, but the app crashes, so words only.

I was thankful for an easy flat hike, well almost. Some rocky areas and some muddy areas and a a stream crossing. I made it across the stream and didn't get too wet. Then i fell on the rocks. Fortunately, I landed on the rocks on dry land. Almost lost my shoe on the mud. It was quit a comical day.

Got off trail again, when a man said, " you know, your not on the AT." I thanked him for getting me back on track. Who puts a turn in the middle of a field.

Met quite a few hikers today. One of them was the woman that runs the York YMCA marathon. I chated with her and her husband for a while. They are section hikers and gave me some good tips. They have done over 1000 miles of the AT on the past few years.

I am trying to stay positive. The aches and pains for today almost stopped me. Fortunately it was mostly flat. Notice i said mostly. The list mile was up a 450' hill, with plenty of rocks. Longest mile so far. I am going to re-evaluate my distances. I want this to be fun and relaxing.

I am surprised to find 2 other hikers in the shelter with me. One is heading to Duncannon. The other is a thru hiker finishing tomorrow in Boiling Springs.

Its dark out at 5:30. It's getting cold an windy. Thought about a fire until the wind picked up. I think i might read for awhile. Of course that was last nites plan, but i was out as soon as my head dropped. Then the train kept a rollin all nite long.