May 8, 1997 (Day 50 – milepoint 558.4 – Jenkins Shelter)

A.M. – I’m enjoying a short break after a 2000 foot climb this morning up to an unexpected, open bald on Chestnut Ridge. Breeze, Red Top, and I have been discussing this view and how we wish we could do it justice through pictures or verbal description.

Late season on Chestnut Ridge

There have been so many unique views that I never imagined would be part of this journey. Breeze talks of the Grand Canyon in a similar way, how it can’t be truly appreciated unless you’re there to see it yourself. He is so right.

P.M. – We arrived at Chestnut Knob Shelter and enjoyed another great view, overlooking an area called Burkes Garden. A large depression (maybe 8-10 square miles) looking a lot like a giant crater. An incredibly unique place. Locals call it “God’s Thumbprint’. Pretty much all farmland, no central town area as far as I can tell. It looks like a very peaceful place to live.

Aerial View of Burkes Garden

Continued on in a cold rain to Jenkins Shelter (mile 558) for the night. Grandma and Hardcore were there and conversation soon turned to the “incident” at The Place Hostel in Damascus. I did not participate in the discussion because I am no longer bothered by the whole deal, but from listening it is quite obvious that it was, and still is, a great big difference in perspective, and very much a generational disconnect.

I concentrated all my energy on a very pleasant couple, Papa and Pejjy, both I think in their mid-70’s. Thru-hiking in sections for many years now, Pejjy finished last year and has joined Papa for his final section to Pearisburg, where they should be in about 4 days. The three of us talked cheerfully for a few hours about our travels until Grandma (56) reminded us it was 9:00, she was tired, and that we should turn in as well…

Aquaholic

March 8, 2009

Any intelligent fool can make things bigger, more complex, and more violent.  It takes a touch of genius – and a lot of courage – to move in the opposite direction. –E.F. Schumacker