Nimblewill Nomad
Long Distance Hiker/Author
Journal 234-ODYSSEY 2021: Bama to Baxter-Hike On!
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Monday–October 11, 2021
Trail Day–234
Trail Mile–-11.4/2346.7
Remaining Miles–274.6
Location–Chateauguay Road (474.4) Primitive Campsite, to Gifford Woods State Park, Campsite #5 (485.8)
A very comfortable night’s sleep in my tent, serenaded by the soothing, melodic sound from cascading Locust Creek. Delicious hot coffee, combined effort of Kitchen Sink & Somewhere, a couple oatmeal cookies and my vitamins, and I’m fueled for this day.
And this day will, indeed, take plenty of fuel, as the trail runs us up and down pretty much nonstop, close to 6,000-feet elevation change, ascents and descents. But with the forgiving tread, the steadiness of it, once set, the needed effort does not overwhelm, and this fine-weather hiking day passes with much enjoyment.
We hike right to the campsite set by Barry at Gifford Woods State Park, as the trail goes right up the park road. What a wonderful surprise as evening descends–in comes Odie in his old church bus. He’s on his way home to Alabama, and not being far off his chosen route, has decided to spend the night with us.
A dandy fire in the camp fire ring, supper on the grill–then the most enjoyable time with dear friends, relaxing in the fireside glow.
What a rewarding day, the demanding challenge of it, the great satisfaction, the reward in succeeding against all odds–yet again…
He who believes is strong;
he who doubts is weak.
Strong convictions precede great actions.
(Louisa May Alcott)
Nimblewill Nomad 