Wednesday, August 8, 2007

40 degrees, 20 mile per hour winds, and heavy rain

Spencer checked in today to report that maybe some of the most challenging miles on the trail had awaited them until Maine. It's hard for most of us to imagine, especially those in the south enduring a massive heat wave, that they could be experiencing 40 degree temps, wind, and rain. While we were speaking he said, "they were walking in clouds literally." The extremely rocky and root filled trail was slowing their pace considerably. On Monday he and Ben hiked for 14 hours straight only to travel 18 miles. Completely pooped they realized it would not be possible to arrive ontime for their next supply. Rationing their food a bit would allow them to make it the next drop on Thursday. The plan was to begin hikng at 5:00AM for 20 miles, hitch into town, re-supply, hitch back to the trail and hike another 6-8 miles. This was the first time I could hear in Spencer's voice any degree of frustration or discouragement. The sound of discouragement quickly disappeared when Spencer stated, "don't worry Dad, we're making it now! '

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

keep it up guys! you're the strongest people i know, or have yet to meet in spencers case.

colleen

Unknown said...

YOU CAN DO IT!!!!

I, along with soooo many others, am thinking of you nonstop, just trying to imagine the conditions you're facing and how you're feeling emotionally and physically. And it all boils down to this: you are strong! And in just a few short days, you will be celebrating this incredible achievement!

Auntie B

Anonymous said...

onward and upward, one foot in front of the other!! don't lose heart, you can do it!! do the best you can and get up and do it again. that's the way!! you guys are young and strong and are focused. you WILL succeed!!!

many prayers and good thoughts to you both.

robin