Heading into Tennessee

Hi all,

I have been on the trail 2 days since Hot Springs NC. Hot Springs is a REALLY SMALL town, but the hiker hotel did have cable and warm showers. Was nice to be in civilization again for a while. This area of the trail is really remote, not much between shelters. I am either ahead of the group or way behind because I haven't seen many people at the shelters. Kim asked if I see homesteads or farms like we do when we are hiking at home, not a one. The trail is not very well marked here, and there is not much to tell you where you are between shelters. So, I keep close to the shelter by shelter method. I woke up this morning to a very scenic view, and could see a large road in the distance. I now know this is I 26, caused I passed by on my way to my camping spot tonight. I have been on a steady climb, one that is constant wearing on your feet and mind. I started at Hot Springs 1326 ft and have been climbing steadily for the last three days to where I am now at Sams Gap 3800 ft. I went past the shelter to camp by a few miles to make tomorrow easier, I am going up Big Bald Mtn at 5516 ft, on my way to Erwin Tn. Erwin is about 20 miles away yet. I have a 7-8 mile climb tomorrow. UP UP and more UP. The weather has been rainy the last couple of days, but warm. Overall I am doing ok, feet are burning a bit, but I just have to rest more. The rest of me is holding up ok. It helps to be able to call out and talk to home. This area is REALLY BIG WOODS, so it is unlikely to run into many people. I have plenty of food and supplies are holding out ok. Bent my hiking pole to bits on a jagged rock yesterday, so will have to either use a big stick or get a new one as soon as I reach Erwin. Same rock that bit my heel. HA HA HA. Well a couple of pics to see where I am. Thanks for following. Night!