August 8 A full day

Weather was perfect today! I had to wake Matt up this morning. I am sure his body was in need of the rest. If we don't start early, we have less time to enjoy the day. I knew we had a swimming pond to look forward to. The day started with a five mile, 1800 foot climb. Our bodies have gotten so use to this hiking that I didn't realize Matt was struggling. Matt is in great shape from running, bicycling, and kayaking. Hiking up mountains with 35 pounds on your back is another story. Matt hit a wall at around four miles. We had to change our strategy and slow way down. I also taught him an uphill technique that Gordon taught me when I hit the wall hiking with him. It did help. We made it to the tower with a view. This is the summit Benton McKaye conceived the idea of the AT. We took a long break, ate some food, and hoped Matt would get a second wind.

Because of his good shape, he did recover enough to hike the three miles to Stratton Pond where we spent several hours. We watched the loons disappear into the water popping up elsewhere. The cool water felt so good. Did some laundry, bathed, and rested. Thought about camping there but did not have enough miles in. Decided to hike 5.6 more miles to Prospect Rock for a sunset.

We arrived with just enough time to see the sun slip below the ridge. It was a stunning view. The city of Manchester below. The stars above. We sat on our thermarest pads and ate dinner while taking it all in. Then we laid in our tents and stared at the stars. We saw two shooting stars as we talked.

It's been many years since Matt and I took time to really connect and I am thankful he is sharing in this adventure with us. He is getting quite a challenge out here but hanging strong. 16 miles today. I love my brother and know these memories will be with us both. We laughed about his comments before we started. "If we get to the 100 miles early, we will just keep walking , right?". His confidence was high. Now he is wondering about maybe 75 or so. We've had fun with that.

It's going on 6 am and trying to let everyone sleep in. What will today bring? :)

Gravity.