04.19.09
Day 9 April 19
15.4mi Beech Gap to –> Rock Gap
Woke to, wait for it, wait, you guessed it, rain, cold cold rain. Packed in tent again, I’m getting good at that, ate a cold breakfast. Headed out to Carter Gap Shelter 3mi. to have breakfast out of the rain. Legs felt good and strong lots of energy, I think it was the draw of trying to make Franklin NC to see Hometown and Black Betty.
Climed Albert Mt 5220′ first hill so far that reminds me of a real trail and home. Was a good climb into the misty mountains. No view from the top with firetower. Down hill fast. Trying everytime rain would break to make contact with Hometown and let him know I was close. Finally just above Big Spring Shelter I found a cell and let him know I was coming in fast wet and cold. He let me know that Black Betty would be in the parking lot just below the shelter in 20!!!!! Thats 20min to you and me! Now it’s not easy to run with a pack and bad ankle but I kept up a stiff pace.
There she was Black Betty calling my name, it was love at first sight. Dry warm car and good friends. Made it! got to take a great hot shower wash clothes and share a good dinner with friends. The trail really does provide. Thank You Hometown and Black Betty!