Today, Bo and I had a lovely morning. We walked a mile to the post office to ship a few things home–saying goodbye to my old shoes that walked 100 miles of the trail and look like they walked at least 500, haha. Then we walked up the big hill to the square to meet “Poppins” and “Optimist” for lunch. I got a bagel and a raspberry latte. We chatted for a while, and then we’re joined by Steven, who just got into town.

He was warning us about an interesting hiker to keep our eyes out for, and before you know, the said hiker comes to us and plops right down. The irony ran deep today! Later, I went back to Outdoor 76 to get an AT buff, Easter goodie bag, and print off my Smokies permit. “Poppins” and Daisy went to the dog park and “Optimist” and “Steven” and I got lunch at Gracious Plates, where I ordered a smoked trout sandwich. After lunch, I went back to the square to make some calls and chat with friends. I worked out the logistics for Bo to be shuttled and boarded past the Smokies. I also planned out the next few resupplies. I can’t believe I am already under a week out from entering the Smokies! I’ve got an early shuttle tomorrow morning back to Winding Stair Gap since I figured it may be hard to catch a hitch on Easter morning in a small town. There is some rain forecasted in the next few days, so we will see how lucky we are.

Bo and I rested in the room the rest of the day. I took a hot bath and have been icing my arches in hopes of ridding the pain in my feet. I packed up the pack and organized all the resupply food, and made a run across the street to McDonalds so I could have coffee tomorrow before my 0645 shuttle arrives to return Bo and I to the trail.

Day: 15

Date: 4/19/2025

Miles: Zero

Camp: Sapphire Inn

At Mile: 109.7