appalachian trail

Four days into my vacation and I'm finally feeling like myself again.

Today I took two different walks along the Appalachian Trail.

Yes, as indicated by the white blaze to the left, the trail 

continues through a boulder field.

The view from Bake Oven Knob.

I haven't been here since I was a teenager, it's always so busy.

Too many people for me to stick around so I headed a bit South.

On my way down a head to head encounter with a very large black snake.

We paused to consider each other then I tapped my walking stick on a rock

and he slowly left the trail, soon to be hibernating I'm sure.

The State Game Lands below Hawk Mountain.

An hour's walk up and forty-five minutes down.

Late lunch creekside.

A thousand gnat veil kept me from lingering.

Yes, I'm feeling much like myself again.

xo, j

overnight in the mountains

 

Last night I slept under the stars at the foot of the Blue Mountain.

It's been months since I've been camping and I craved the fresh air, 

sounds of the forest and woodsmoke.

The Appalachian Trail runs along the top ridge and I managed a 

quick walk before the bugs and mosquitoes sent me back to camp.

The recent heavy rains left the trail spongy and dotted with mushrooms.

Dry stone walls emerge from a sea of ferns as the familiar

white blaze leads you along the trail.

Early the next morning I sat very still by the cold campfire,

enjoying the family of Tufted Titmice that flew by so close 

I could feel the air from their wings on my cheek.

Just as quietly a first year raccoon made its way up from the creek 

and straight for where I was sitting.

Knowing it's best not to startle a wild one I gently 

moved my leg to alert if of my presence.

It's startled dark face looked up and it quickly turned, hurried back to the creek,

swam across and then continued up stream on the opposite bank.

Probably on it's way to bed after a night of foraging.

Back home I continued my quiet day and read a novel from cover to cover.

Two days of self indulgence...I'm ready for the week ahead!

xo, j

Sunday - Golden light

Despite a nasty cold I went for a ride up and over the Blue Mountain.
A hunter's cabin, view from the top and the Appalachian Trail Northbound.
The golden late day sun did not go unnoticed.