Spared again. About two hours before we rolled out of the tent the rain stopped. It was a cold breakfast day as it was imperative we reach the Post Office before noon. We had a two hour window to pickup our box or we would have to wait until Monday to get the next seven days food. Up at 6:30AM and on the trail by 7:17AM.
800' up hill in 1.4 miles, what a way to start your day. At least the fog was thick so we didn't have to see the task before us. Phexen also needed to pick up a box and pulled out with us. Three hours and fifteen minutes later we were standing at a phone calling for the shuttle to take us to the Post office.
Our box has been here for a few days so we are in fine shape now. The first shelter is 10 miles into The Great Smoky Mtn Park. We couldn't make that today as there is also a 2,000'+ climb in that 10 miles. We opted to stay in the village for showers and clean cloths. Tomorrow is Mother's Day so I treated CC to supper and ice cream. Phexen got his box and went to a hostel that would run him the 27 miles to town and a real grocery store.
We have had a nice day relaxing and recharging our batteries. Our only concern is the clot of hikers holed up here all hitting the trail in the morning, about a dozen by my unofficial count. Seems it will be a crowded trail tomorrow.
Happy Mother's Day to all of the mother's out there.
Patrick, Deborah Mooney aka OD & CC
All Who Wander Are Not Lost
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