Time on the Trail

I mentioned back in March that my dad was off on a journey on the Appalachian Trail.  He left from Springer Mountain, Georgia the first weekend in March and has been hiking ever since.  He made his way home (via hitchhiking) when Sam was born, so we were able to visit with him for a few days.  My mom took him back to where he stopped, and he was on his way again.

He just recently reached the 1,000 mile mark, which is right around Harpers Ferry, WV.  He's now closer to where we live, which means we've been able to go visit him for a day at a time. Sam and I have actually visited three Mondays in a row.  Three Mondays ago, he was near Charlottesville, VA on Skyline Drive in the Shenandoah National Park.  It was about a three hour drive, which included a stop to feed Sam in a winery parking lot (completely appropriate, right?!), but we made it and had a nice visit.  Two Mondays ago, he was taking a zero day (no hiking, just resting) in Front Royal, VA, so we drove out and met him at his motel.  We went to lunch and took him to a Dollar General store to stock up.  This past Monday, Sam, my mom, and I met him near Smithburg, MD.  Sam actually hiked a little bit of the Appalachian Trail that day (add that one to the baby book!).  My mom brought some "trail magic" for the hikers, which included cookies, fruit, pepperoni roll, and drinks.  To say they were appreciative is an understatement.  We then went to lunch with my dad.

Next week, he'll be to Duncanon, PA, which is the halfway point.  He's going to take a week-long break and come home to rest and attend some family events over the 4th of July.  It will be nice to have him home and for him to rest and eat!  He's lost nearly 35 pounds in the past three months!

Here are some pictures of our visits with my dad!  He's loved seeing his first grandson so much lately and I know Sam has enjoyed spending time with his Pap!

 At lunch in Crozet, Virginia

 On the trail with Pap

 Before heading back on the trail

 There he goes!

And he's off!