May 2,1997 (Day 44 – milepoint 468.4 – VA301; overnight in Damascus )

I was awakened this morning at around 5 AM by Grandma and Hardcore who were loudly stomping around the hostel, banging pots, yelling, and turning lights on. Apparently, they were upset that some people stayed up past ten o’clock last night, keeping them awake. I tried to feel sympathetic, but honestly, it pissed me off.

It was a weird and surprising way for two intelligent 50 year old women to be acting. I heard that after I went to bed last night, Chopstick (18 from upstate NY) had the phone yanked from his hands by Grandma, who proceeded to tell his father how inconsiderate Chopstick was being talking on the phone at such a late hour. I think someone should have handed her a mirror and sent her outside.

The Place is very open by design, asking for a one-dollar-a-night donation. If you don’t want to pay the donation, you’re still welcome and there is a big, beautiful yard outside where you can pitch a tent.

The altercation clearly boiled down to a difference in expectations and, perhaps, generation. I think Grandma and Hardcore would have been happier outside in the privacy of their tents. I’m still a little angry with them right now, but I’m sure it will pass.

Easy Chair and I caught a ride north this morning and slackpacked about 18 miles back into town, mostly following the Virginia Creeper Trail. What a beautiful stretch of trail that is. It would be a nice on a bicycle.

Will be leaving Damascus tomorrow and continuing north.

Aquaholic

May 2, 2009

Hey Aquaholic,

Good day with the kids today. That is all.

O’