"Everything is blooming most recklessly; if it were voices instead of colors, there would be an unbelievable shrieking into the heart of the night."
~Rainer Maria Rilke

Hardcore was over and everyone was up early to catch some type of breakfast and coffee, pack and catch their ride back to where you left the trail. I was designated to 1-Pint (our driver) along with Jesse and Eric the Red. We left Kincora 9:00 am and was driving up the interstate towards Atkins. By 11:30 I was back on the AT looking for the white blazes north.

I crossed farmlands with green rolling hills and forest covered mountains as a back drop. I did get emotional when I recognized landmarks where I took Lady Kritter's pictures when she slackpacked with me from Atkins in '04. It was good to be back on trail and away from towns. It was also hard to get into a hiking rythmn because of the 4 zero days and getting adjusted to the new backpack.

Just as we, Eric the Red, Jesse and I reached the shelter, the rain clouds opened up and we had to find shelter in a shelter. The rain will last a few minutes just to annoy everyone then let up. During the lull I make a mad dash to setup my tent and throw everything inside before the next wave hit. Looks like summer is going to be humid, hot and rainy.

You can check up on Wayne's almost daily progress at his Trail Journal.