Summary
Aug 19th
Highland Center Lodge
Zero
Somethings have changed pretty significantly for me when I find myself more comfortable in a bunkhouse than in a motel room. Well, maybe not more comfortable, but not uncomfortable! I really like getting to know the folks there. Not that there aren’t downsides, like snoring, short beds, hiker funk, etc.
After the breakfast buffet, which was huge and very decent, I went back to move my stuff out of the bunkhouse in preparation to checking in to a room in the lodge. My hiking clothes were still pretty wet (and rank), so I found some rocks out in the sun to lay stuff out to dry. I took the opportunity to noodle on the uke. I like to select a random song and see if I can work out a uke arrangement. I don’t notate the arrangement, which sometimes feels like a waste of time, but it’s more about the act of working it out than the result. I guess if I get something I really am excited about, I will try to do something to help me remember it.
Eventually I packed stuff up and carried it to the lodge entrance, then sat to hang out until I could check into my room.
A little after noon, a trio of NOBOers that I recognized from somewhere, I think it was Hikers Welcome Hostel, came in and spent the afternoon. There were no accommodations left, but one of the AMC staff offered to take them into North Conway for the night, and bring them back in the AM. Although we didn’t hang out together, it was still cool to visit for a bit.
I needed to make a decision as to whether I was going to start the presidential range tomorrow, so I asked at the desk if there was a shuttle to the trail head, and if I could reserve a spot. There was, and I could, so I did. So at least the next few days have been set in motion.
Betsy and her friend Ruben showed right on time, and we drove off for a special treat of family time, pasta, and ice cream. I’m so grateful that my family is supportive and engaged in my trek. I had a wonderful time with them, and the food was excellent. It’s the second time in the past few weeks that I have had a sundae, and it blows my mind how quickly a large sundae can disappear!
Thank you, Betsy and Ruben, for brightening my day, and providing tasty, real caloric fuel for tomorrow’s hiking challenge!!
I’m nervous that I won’t be able to sleep very well tonight; the challenges of the presidential traverse are stuff of legends.
Tom Maynard 
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