May 11, 1997 (Day 53 – milepoint 601.9 – Woodshole Hostel)

Slept in a field next to an Amish horse farm last night…you don’t do that every day.

A little shop on the road near the trail called Trent’s Grocery has a payphone so I was able to call Mom and wish her Happy Mother’s Day. Everyday should be Mother’s Day!

I felt a little fatigued today and probably should have slept a little longer this morning, but when the sun comes up and the birds start singing, I get anxious for the day.

It turned out to be one of my better days anyway, although they’re all good. Clear, blue skies, and about 70 degrees made lying in the sun a real pleasure. In just over 13 miles, I took three naps. First nap at the base of Dismal Falls (of Dismal Creek) on a warm, flat rock. A nice deep pool at the base of the falls made it tempting to go for a swim, but the water was ice cold so I just soaked my feet. Second nap in a soft, green grassy area next to a pond. Third nap on a rock overlooking a beautiful valley. The hiking after a nap is more peaceful than normal. I feel very quiet and more connected with myself. I would like to think that more napful days are ahead.

I also discovered today that Sunday is the best day to listen to National Public Radio. Prairie Home Companion (Minnesota) followed by Mountain Stage (West Virginia) followed by two hours of Keltic music. Outstanding entertainment.

I am now at Woodshole Hostel, an old 100 acre farm owned by Tillie Wood (70’s or possibly even 80) since 1940. Payment for staying here is to add a rock to the rock-wall bordering the property. I found a monster in the woods and made my proud contribution. Helping Tillie here are volunteers Juanita and High Pocket. They are all wonderfully young 70-somethings.

Joined again tonight by Easy Chair, Fruitcake, Red Top, Breeze, and Bulldog. I will be leaving the trail tomorrow for about a week to visit friends in Blacksburg, VA, then West Virginia, and then to Indiana for baby-sister Jamie’s college graduation. I’ve enjoyed the company of these folks and hope they all fare well as they travel north. Even after three naps today, my eyelids grow heavy as the sun falls over the horizon.

Aquaholic

May 11, 2009

Set aside a half hour every day to do all of your worrying, then take a 30-minute nap during that time.