Almost Vermont!

Continuing on....
After staying at Upper Goosepond, Jack and Chris spent the next day hiking 21.4 miles to Dalton, Mass. They stayed at a well-known trail angel's house who for many years has provided thru-hikers like Jack and Chris with auspicious hospitality. This man opened up his home to them, offering his refrigerator to them as their own. As an outsider looking into their world, I was simply amazed at this man's Good Samaritan generosity. Here is a man whose actions speak volumes, and in an unbelievably out-of-this-world way. This host can not possibly fathom the gratitude a mother must feel that her sons were taken care of in such a way. He, as well as all those who have extended their kindness to my sons, have been part of The Way along my sons' way. So much is published of the horrendous actions of others in the media. And it is important to be cautious. Yet the number of good people and unspoken acts of charity, must outweigh the evil actions we hear reported. Yes, we don't know what lurks around the corner on such a once-in-a- lifetime adventure. But we have much more to be thankful for, just looking for it hidden behind the veil of ordinary life. So much for my reflection. Divine Providence was apparent again here and then later on yesterday morning. Jack and Chris shared their tale with two strangers along the hike and they generously helped them with their stay that night....after hiking 23.3 miles.

By the way, they climbed their first large summit since Shenandoah, VA: Mt. Greylock: elevation 3,491'. They are just a few miles from the Vermont border. The Green Mountains and sheer vertical climbs of the New Hampshire White Mountains, including Mount Washington, loom ahead in the distance. They are a long awaited challenge. States remaining: Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. They awake to begin again...day 70.