This is late. Yesterday’s post. I had no service yesterday, last night and most of today. I’ll have another post tonight. 
Bob and Judy made bacon, eggs, potatoes, biscuits and jam for breakfast this morning. Then Bob drove me back to Newfound Gap so I could pick up where I left off. 
I was grateful this morning for the simple things. It’s amazing how a full stomach and dry clean socks can make you feel on top of the world. I appreciate Bob and Judy’s hospitality so much. That stop was a huge lift.
Today was cloudy and foggy again so very few pictures today. Charlie’s Bunion was definitely the highlight today. The trail was definitely easier hiking today. Not overly rocky and not to muddy.
The shelter I’m in tonight is full. I’m glad I got here early enough to get a spot. It’s supposed to storm tonight with winds up to sixty miles per hour. It will probably get down to the low 40’s to high 30’s. We are at an altitude of about 6000 feet. If the weather wasn’t bad I’d rather stay in my tent because I like getting up before everyone else. It may be a later start tomorrow if it’s still raining.
I’m now starting to see some of the same people at the shelters in the evening although I’m still hiking in the day alone. Low Tech, Backtrack Bam Bam, Little Smart Ass and J Bell are all here. I met Bloomer, Weathergirl and Moxie tonight. I think Tasteless got ahead of me.
Tomorrow will be my last day in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. This was the area that it’s common to get snow this time of year. I guess I’m lucky in that respect.
The Smokies is also the area that the bears are the most bold. Not only do we have to hang our food, in the park they also require us to hang our whole backpack so the bears can’t get to them. I have not seen a bear yet. I have talked to people that have.
One of my friends, Ataboy was airlifted from Clingmans Dome yesterday. They weren’t sure what was wrong. It turned out to be a kidney stone.
The pictures I do have aren’t posting.
I don’t have any cell service today so I didn’t get to talk to Amy.
2017 Appalachian Hike 
It’s been gloomy & rainy here, too. Glad you’re not getting showed on! Andrew is doing a good job at the store, but I miss seeing you striding through the aisles and calling out your greetings to every one! I saw Amy for a minute today at the store. She’s just as sweet as ever!
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