2014/4/4 Mile 164.7
Woke up bright and early at 0600 to get a jump on the weather. On the trail by 7. Blisters really hurting today even after moleskin and tape on the worst of them. After getting everything warmed up the first 6 miles felt pretty good.
Stopped for lunch at a shelter and met Misty Pony, a very tall German hiker. Rain started so we geared up to push through it. Heard reports of hail and a tornado watch so we wanted to get to Fontana Dam as fast as possible.
Wet shoes and a long downhill took their toll on the blisters. Icing on the cake was that my right ACL was really barking on the downhills. I managed to hobble through the last 5 miles down to Fontana Marina where the rest of the crew waited.
We hung out and had snacks and drinks from the store until Nautilus's uncle showed up in his truck to give us a ride. Super nice guy. I can't believe he was kind enough to invite 3 strangers over for the weekend.
Long winding drive through the Dragon's Tail and then more back roads showed off some beautiful mountains and lakes. Steve knew every road, valley, and body of water we could see.
Arrived at Steve and Debbie's place around 6. Its a beautiful house on some land just like what I would dream of for retirement. Showered and prepped for dinner. Everyone was hungry.
Dinner was huge. Chicken, green beans, broccoli, scalloped potatoes, and good old sweet tea. A real feast by anyone's standards. After filling up we hung around the living room while Nautilus and his aunt and uncle got caught up and we all shared stories.
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