May 19

Hiked along a nice ridge today. A few open views but mostly rocks and roots. My new boots feel good but a bit stiff. Look forward to getting them worn in.

Water has been plentiful since we left Springer until today. We ran out of water and luckily came to a stream 2.5 miles later. Some of the water sources mentioned do not exist. We have heard that water can become a difficult matter as we go North. We will be more cautious to fill our water bladders full every chance we get. ( it's just SO heavy).

16.5 miles in we came to Dismal Branch with a sign "Captains". There is a small zip line with a seat. We took a ride across to a gentleman's home with a fridge on the back porch full of cold pop ( soda down here) and a nice grassy yard for tents. Captain is gone to Damascus for trail days but left notes for the hikers. Great spot for the night with the sound of the river.

Four Trees has joined us, he is from Rochester, MI. We helped him across the zip line.

Sad to see Gordon go. It is always great to spend time together. Good conversation and love to share in this adventure with him. All the times I met him on his hikes inspired us to take this on.

Oh and I had to take a picture of the privy that is not so private ;)

Julie