May 12: Jenkins Shelter
 
Miles Today : 20.9
Total Miles : 20.9

The day began bright and early for me today. I walked downstairs this morning at 5:15 to find Tony, already up and ready, brewing coffee and asking me if I am interested in some breakfast. Before long, we are downing waffles and bacon, perfect food to keep me going on my first day of hiking.

From their house, it is a two hour drive to the trailhead on route 42. Tony and Sherry really went out of their way of me and thanks just did not seem to say enough. When we arrived at the small parking lot, I was more emotional and excited that I thought I would be. A final round of thank you's to my hosts and I was off, once again heading north on the Appalachian Trail.

It wasn't too long before I was huffing and puffing up the trail, following the white blazes along the hardened footpath once again. I have no wallet, no keys and no soap - I feel at peace and at home.

In just the first couple of hours, I ran into several thru-hikers and chatted with them about the trail. The highlight of the day today was Chestnut Knob. A partial bald, this 4000-foot mountain was a pleasure to climb. The last few miles up to the summit were exposed, providing views in several directions. Unfortunately, today was not the best weather and the views were somewhat obscured. I was initially planning on spending the night at the Chestnut Knob Shelter, which is directly on top of the bald, but because of the weather, I opted to push on.

Wildflowers were fairly abundant during today's hike, including several Azaleas in full bloom. There was also some Laurel, Rhododendron and even a few Lady Slippers. Another highlight from the hike today would have to be Burke's Garden, often referred to as God's Thumbprint. Basically, it is just a large farming area surrounded in a circle by mountain ridges. The effect is artificial since without the farmland, there would be nothing particular to look at, but the look is definitely cool.

Here at the shelter I am tenting out tonight. I am having some pretty good conversations with Crazy Andy, Smiles, Fiddlestix, Phoenix, Fruit Cup and a few other hikers. It was a very good first day back on the trail, and I have met some really nice people already. I am heading to the fire for some marshmallows and then heading to bed very happy.

-Chomp

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