5/25/12 – 557 miles
I didn’t leave Atkins until 9:00 am. The owner told me he would take me to the post office yesterday but I fell asleep in the afternoon and missed the ride, so I had to wait until it opened this morning. Atkins was not a good place to stop. The motel was dirty and run down and resupply consisted of a few snacks at a Exxon convenience store. The rest was good, though, my shin splint is almost healed.
I stopped hiking early today. My knee was a little sore and stiff. It seems that first days after a rest are always like that. I met with Sampson, a young guy and fast hiker and we passed each other through the day. He likes to stop and eat every hour and that would let me catch him. We did find trail magic at a road crossing – pb&j sandwiches and sodas – and with temps in the 80’s today, tasted good.
I’m camped by myself for the night. Tomorrow I will get up early and try to get good miles in while it is cool. I’m hoping for good weather for a few days. Against Chicken Feathers advice I sent home my winter clothes. I hope summer is here to stay.