Day 5 … Neels Gap to Random Campsite. 14.5 miles. Mile marker 45.6

That seems to be one of the most asked questions. So many people ask that and are so supportive! This morning I came across Tanya and her young daughter as they were eating breakfast. Her daughter was maybe 6 or 7 and she asked me “How far are you going? All the way to Maine!” She was very excited when I told her ” yes I was” and then she said they were going to the ATC in Harpers Ferry. It was adorable and reminded me of my girls when they were younger.

I want to thank Sue and Pete for welcoming me in to their house, it was so amazing. REAL trail magic!

Speaking of which, I got some more today from a senior hiking group!!!it was exactly what I needed to get me over that mountain! And mountains there were today! SIX in total!

I met some other interesting people as well today. There was Popper, Choo-Choo and Locomotive and AV Cruiser and his son Cooper. I caught up with Dingo for a water break, but he ended up ahead of me tonight I believe.

I ended up camping with AV and Cooper and we had some amazing conversations as well as my first AT campfire! AV thru hiked in 2014 and is out for his second time through. Cooper will only be along until the first of June, as he has to return to work. The people you meet out here are truly amazing!

And speaking of AMAZING! I got my trail name today. Apparently you can take the trainer out of the gym but not the trainer out of the gym, lol. One lady told me that if I saw her slow down to tell her “Come on, 500 more feet!” And Cooper told me that he felt I had a purpose out here to help others.

So I was given the name of Coach.

I love it!

Tonight as I laid there waiting for my rice and beef to cook, I looked up and saw this amazing view and I knew you were right there with me Leanna. I’m so amazed by you and so thankful for your love and support. I wish I could have taken a clear picture of the stars, but I know we were looking at the same ones. Goodnight baby, I love you!