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View of the trail

November 7, 1997

So here I am again .. at the beginning of a new journey but still the continuation of an old journey. I have been off the trail for about 7 weeks. I didn't expect to be for so long, but I did what my physical therapist told me to do. However, she still doesn't think I have a chance of making it to Springer. No bother. Things have changed since I've been home, and so have I. I can't wait to start hiking, but I will miss my family and friends, especially the new friends I met this time visiting home. I'm bringing 2 new hikers out with me. First, my mom, who is so excited to start hiking, I don't think she has any clue what she's in for, I know I didn't when I started out. Second, Sky, a beautiful Lab Pointer-Dalmation mix, for Sister Smiles. We've wanted a trail dog for a long time, and now we'll have one. She met up with Scott and Lucky about a week ago. Today I spoke to her and she seemed very discouraged it has rained a lot lately and it's getting very cold. Hopefully she'll feel more enthusiastic when we're all together again.

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November 9, 1997

We drove to Virginia today and yesterday. We're staying with some relatives tonight, Collie and Jeanette, and we'll meet Scott and Sister Smiles tomorrow morning. I would really like to meet my second cousins, who aren't here right now. They have Phish bootlegs and ticket stubs from WSP shows. This house is really beautiful and they have a dog house, at least that's what they call it. It's like a guesthouse with a pool table, a loft, and a fireplace. It's awesome, I dig it! I think it would be nice to live in Virginia. Most of the trees have already changed color, but some are still in the process. It's pretty cold here, at least compared to Miami, but it's not that bad. I must include how grateful I am for my family, especially my Dad who's driven us and my dog all the way up here just so we can hike, and or everyone who has allowed me to stay at their homes, I really appreciate it.

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NOTE

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© Megan Hearn 1997