Ahh ... civilization once again. Coming into towns have been a big part of our encouragement while we are hiking. It's nice being able to shower and clean your clothes. It's also great to plop down on a bed instead of setting up a tent and blowing up a sleeping pad. I have developed an intense appreciation for civilization and all the things I can't have while I'm in the woods. For example, being able to eat raw, healthy foods that I can't carry with me. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to eat the biggest, vibrant salad ever! 

Although, I must confess that it doesn't take very long for the mountains to call me back. I never thought I would miss being out in the wilderness after spending so much time out there . . . but I do. I miss the stillness and the sounds of nature. I miss the smells of the trees and the waters. I miss the simple life of waking up with the sun and going down with the moon. 

The gang is doing well. We made a pit stop in Rangeley to dry out our gear and clothes since it has been raining the past several days. The town has been pleasantly surprising. It has everything we need and more: good pizza, a post office, a laundry mat, a motel with wifi and a decent coffee shop! We got a ride from a local named Erin, who offered to give us a ride back to the trail head tomorrow! (Amazing trail angel!)

I nervously stepped into the water after changing out of my trail runners and into my chacos. Stacey agreed to carry my pack across since the water was over my waist and the current seemed like more than I could handle. We hiked 3 miles beside the roaring river and I was praying the entire time that we wouldn't have to ford it. "Surely, we don't have to cross this" I kept thinking, "it looks like the Ocoee!" Thankfully we had to cross at a wide spot with no rapids; yet, the water was still moving fast and the current was strong. I was relieved there was a rope tied from one end to the other that I could hold on to. As I reached for the rope, I imagined myself slipping on the slimy rocks and being carried downstream- ending my thru-hike. I heard my Dad from the other end yell out "hold on to the rope and you'll be fine!" I quickly shook my nerves off and started singing a song called "no fear" from a Disney movie me and my sister, Lexi used to watch when we were younger. 

The water was so cold that it took your breath away. I moved as fast as I could while fighting against the swift current. By the time I was in the middle of the river the water was up to my chest. After I made it to the other end I felt a moment of victory. I was one more river crossing stronger, braver and more confident. I also took a minute to appreciate Stacey, who lovingly crossed 2 extra times to bring my pack over. 

As we waited for Tucker and Luke to cross, Dad and I looked up the trail and noticed that it was gone. GONE. The trail was flooded from the previous 2 days of rain and was now a creek! He just laughed and with the most positive upbeat attitude remarked, "now, this is adventure." 

We hiked the next 13 miles in ankle deep water. We did our best not to roll our ankles on the rocks below, but it was inevitable. The whole day was spent trying to keep each other laughing at the situation. Tucker made jokes about how he liked to hike in wet socks and shoes because it felt like squishy memory foam. Luke sarcastically talked about how he needed a boat. These are the perks of hiking in a group- uplifting encouragement. 

We honored the 17.9 mile day of adventure with a big campfire. 

The Appalachian Trail is full of adventure, but can easily be under appreciated and taken for granted. I'm glad we have each other to remind ourselves of this once in a lifetime experience. Life is what you make it. So next time you find yourself in a scary, uncomfortable or unenjoyable situation, live it and learn from it. 

We are returning to the trail today with rested bodies and full bellies thanks to the Stratton Diner. Our next few days look challenging but we are more than ready to get back to the woods! 

Hi family and friends! 

Amber here- writing from Lisa's organic farm in Kingfield, ME. We decided to hop off the trail for a bit to get a shower and call our family. Lisa let us work on her farm in exchange for a night stay and an organic breakfast! The day has been perfect. It's times like these that we all look forward to. The weather could not be any better (seriously ... blue skies for miles) and the scenery is like something out of a story book. My favorite part of her place is watching the 35 range-free chickens run around happily. 

Let's see, the past few days have been pretty great. While we were in Monson, we loaded up on food and bug spray. So no more growling stomachs and we have way less bugs to combat. We are starting to see more hikers which is nice. Some are cool. Some are odd. All are respected for being out here. 


We are heading back on the trail tomorrow to climb "the bigelows" and it's way past my bed time so for now I will leave you with this week's mantra: DIG DEEP


My recent thoughts: These mountains will wear you down. When everything is pushing against you it just seems so easy to give up. Waking up in a wet tent, packing up in the rain, then hiking all day after hiking all day yesterday . . with wet feet is in not 100% enjoyable. Neither is hiking up 500 ft inclines with bugs biting and then twisting your ankles when you hike down 90 degree declines. However, adventure awaits for those who persevere. Life is full of mountains we must climb. I have learned that just like in life outside the trail, one must dig deep. So whatever it is that is weighing you down, hang in there! You will reach the top of the mountain if you keep on going. 


We will be in Stratton in a few days. I should be able to post some of our photos. Thanks to everyone who has been looking out for our loved ones back home. Sending positive vibes your way!


-Amber