June 29 - Peter’s Mountain Shelter (Day 102 – milepoint 1130.0)

After breakfast, we went through Mom’s pack and got rid of a few things: shampoo and conditioner, skin cleansing lotion, nail clippers, bug spray. She wanted a change of underwear for each day. Sorry. We cut that in half. Reduced her six T-shirts to three and her four pairs of shorts to two, and a few other minor things. Minor to me anyway. I assured her that she would thank me later.

I have my tent and my purifier back and we have plenty of food. Jamie dropped us off at the Trail. Couple of photos, and we were off. Excellent, flat terrain for day one on the AT with Mom.

We walked for about 2 miles and found a nice overlook where we relaxed in the sun and enjoyed a nice breeze for an hour or so. Then moved on and arrived at the shelter, no problem. I am happy to have underestimated Mom’s abilities.

We are joined by Achilles, Walkie Talkie, Pancake, Supertramp, Saint, Yote, and a new face – Boulder Dash.

A nice evening. Mom relaxed while I set up sleeping space, fetched water, cooked, washed dishes, and organized our packs. I’m enjoying the role reversal. We played cards ’til dark. A trail name seems to have already latched on to Mom, “AquaMom.”

Aquaholic