Day 4 Woody’s Gap to Neels Gap. 11.3 miles. Nero at Sue and Pete’s.
So what’s a Nero, you may ask. That is where you only hike part of the day then rest the rest of the day. It can be at camp or in town at a hostel or hotel, which is more typical. Sue was kind enough to pick me up and bring me to her house where I got a shower, did laundry and then we all went to town for pizza. Afterwards, they took me to Helton Creek Falls for an amazing view of the waterfall. 
Today’s hike was full of climbs and views! Preachers rock was the first this morning. And from there it was up, up, up until Blood Mountain. And it was outstanding!
I also got some more trail magic! Some beef jerky from some fellow hikers while taking a break, and donuts and bug juice as I walked in to Neels Gap!
The trees are starting to sprout new growth and it made me think and put things in to a different mindset for me as I headed north. I’d be telling a lie if I said that this trip was easy. This is definitely the hardest thing I’ve ever set out to do, and not physically – although that is tough too, but being away from her. There are so many things I see out here I want her to see and share with me, so it’s tough.
This new growth for US is, as she put it to me, “is going to be the best gift we have been given, a love that can handle anything”. Words can’t describe how amazing you are and how thankful I am to have you by my side on this journey babe.
Tonight, I sleep in a bed. Then it’s back in the woods in the morning to keep pushing north.
TakeAHike 
Oh my, we are both on a venture today, only I’m flying so my arms will be as tired as your legs. Oh no they won’t bahahaha I’m in an airplane! Love you sweetums!
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Matt, I have been filled with emotion everyday that I read your journaling. Your sharing your experience is preparing me as I am getting ready to begin my own version of a similar oddesy. That being said, guess who I ran into yesterday evening and was able to hug and discuss ya’ll’s adventure? Yep! Funny how the world works when you have an open heart. I enjoy your postings and look forward to us all catching up later in the year.
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It was SO great to see your smile Chris …we will definitely all be getting together in the coming year…keep your heart open and everything will fall right where it needs to be 💕 or as I say “BELIEVE” ..safe travels and most importantly enjoy the journey 😊
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I love your heart babe 💖…its bigger than the moon! I couldn’t be more thankful that you hold a spot in it just for me …keep on steppin..we are one day closer 🤩
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Hold a spot??? Oh baby, you hold my entire heart 💜
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Now you’re in the right mind set. Carry on friend. Each step a new adventure.
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You take good care of yourself and we’ll take good care of her for you have fun
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So glad you got a good night sleep in a comfy bed and a great shower. Very proud of you and I’m going to enjoy your journey blog! Can’t wait to see and hear your amazing path! Keep on steppin and embrace every moment. My heart is so full of your amazing love that you and Leanna share.
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Matt,
Enjoy. Enjoy. Enjoy.
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I enjoy reading your blog every evening Matt! The pictures are beautiful too, thanks for sharing with all of us! You keep stepping, I keep praying for safe travels, and I can’t wait to hear about this journey when you return home!
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