Day 37 - Double Springs to Damascus

Got up and out by 7:30, a little later than we had hoped. Eighteen miles to civilization – time to kick it up a notch. But boy, it was already hot that early in the morning.

The miles were relatively easy, but there is no such thing as completely flat. I have to remember that so I don’t get disappointed at the sight of the slightest upcoming climb. Dave started going really fast, and I had to run on the flat parts to keep up. It was getting pretty frustrating, so I asked him to slow down.

 

Anyway, we made it to Damascus, Virginia by 2:30. Six hours for 18 miles -- not bad. Called Kathy and Skip right away. It turns out Wendy was already on her way to pick us up. I bought some new shorts at the outfitter, and hopefully the pack-related rash on my back will go away now. Also got my own headlamp. 

We headed for “The Place,” a huge converted church now used by hikers and bikers for lodging. There are lots of rooms of bunkbeds, a couple showers, a kitchen, and a big yard. All for a $3 donation.

The Place

Charlie and Murph were already here. It was good to see them! We asked them to come with us to Mt. Airy, since there was room for four. Even though they had just taken a zero day, they agreed to come.

Because of traffic, Wendy didn’t pick us up til 4:30, and we didn’t get to the house until after 6. They had a German-Canadian couple already staying with them (business associates). But everyone was very friendly and seemed happy to see us.

Ate lasagna, turkey sandwiches, pasta salad, and salad for dinner. Hung out and talked til 11:30. The bed was so soft, the pillows were so nice, and there was a ceiling fan keeping the room cool but not too cold. Perfect. It did take me a while to fall asleep, but I was incredibly comfortable.