It’s always a struggle when family visits. I’m so excited they came to visit. Yet, excited to get back to the task at hand. I’ve never been good at goodbyes. Somehow Mrs. Growler and I were able to make peace and it was back to the Trail. 

Within minutes of leaving the gap, OC and I were into Shendoah National Park. We registered and started climbing. After about ninety minutes, we came to a clearing where there was a cooler labeled “Trail Magic”.  An ice cold Sprite for me and a big thank you in the journal. 

We pressed forward. Aiming for a shelter about twenty miles from Waynesboro. With less than a mile to go, we again descended down to Skyline Drive. As I began to clear the trees, the smell of “grilling & chilling” filled the air. 

Trying not to get my hopes up, I crossed the road. It was the couple who left the cooler. The were grilling hot dogs for hikers. On Memorial Day!  What a treat. They offered more than we could eat. They wanted us to take food with us. 

What a great surprise. It was very much appreciated!

The couple…they were from Crozet, VA. The small town Mrs. Growler and I stayed in. 

Seemed like a bit of good karma.