TAKE THAT, VIRGINIA

it’s been awhile since I last wrote and a lot has happened. I am  now in New Jersey after 1300 miles with only the sound of rushing water to keep me company. I am alone in my thoughts after being off the trail for 10 days in sunny NorthCarolina. After a week of shooting guns, boating and eating bbq with 20 of  my closest and loudest family it was time to return to the trail. I wanted to return and feared it both at the same time. I was gone so long I began to wonder if it would be the same. I expected my joints to scream out in pain despite my legs being well rested and they did not disappoint.
 I wanted so much for   my grandson to come back with me but i blew that opportunity.  today the trail was a gradual uphill terminated by a special lake. I pictured him toting a fishing pole up the trail and could see the look of wonderment when we reached water. But instead I cried aloud in my self inflicted lonliness knowing that I again had only me to blame for the missed opportunity to see a boy fish in the wilds of New Jersey. I stoppedalong the way pulled out my bible as was suggested by family and let God do the talking ie meditate. I read about Barnabas, which means encourage. beingat home I quickly realized that I really haven’t changed until I am tested. Again I  realized my short comings. Encourage. that’s it. drop the explanatios drop the excuses forget the provocatios, encourage.
 I was amazed by the views and the grandure. New Jersey? Yes, some of the very best views to date.  Take that  Virginia! I saw a number of day hikers but no familiar thru hikers so I texted some old friends and was saddened that Weatherman is off the trail.
 I slept an extra hour and now am on my way again. I love my new shoes and hope my feet and legs do better on this rocky trail. I still fill with tears but if I keep walking I will be fine. I love my family and  I will get back as soon as I can.