No pain, no gain. No rain, no Maine.

We have really enjoyed meeting the Sobos (southbound hikers) during the past couple of weeks. Even though they're very early on in their hike (under 400 miles) they've already climbed Katahdin and completed the most technical sections of the trail. Back in Vermont, we were glued to their stories and asked them a zillion questions about The Whites, since they had just finished New Hampshire. It was funny because they'd try to put our minds at ease and encourage us. However, despite their subdued tones, we could translate in our minds what they REALLY meant: The climbs in the whites are intense, getting caught in a storm above treeline is so scary you'll wet your pants, and you'll go broke paying for all the campsites in the touristy mountains.

Once we congratulated the Sobos for completing the hardest parts of the thru-hike, they would sometimes ask us questions about what it's like to hike over 1000 miles. Just like them, we were enthusiastic and encouraging. However, we're sure they could translate in their minds what we REALLY meant: Your feet will be so sore that you won't be able to walk in the mornings, the Pennsylvania rocks really will tear up your boots, the mosquitoes in Massachusetts will try to eat you alive, and the mud in Vermont really is up to your knees at times.

The truth is, a couple of days ago GG and I admitted to each other that we can't wait to be home. We still love the trail, and of course we signed up for the hardships when deciding to thru-hike. Truthfully, when the hike gets tough, we think of our family members and friends back home enduring the hardships of everyday life. You all inspire us and push us on. The other day, though, when it was raining again, we got a little down.

We have had some pretty soggy days in New England, and we were always putting on wet shoes. We entered The White Mountains of New Hampshire thinking, "Those rainy days in MA and VT won't matter as long as we can see these mountains." After two days of NH rain, we were a little bummed out. Mt. Garfield brought howling wind, rain, and slippery/steep rocks. South Twin Mtn. had rain and small hail.

BUT... towards the end of the day, I noticed that the wet rocks suddenly had a strange blue-gray tint. I looked up and saw that it was the reflection of a patch of blue sky. Then, snap! Just like that, more dark clouds rolled in. However, this taught me that even on a tough day, blue sky is just beyond that dark cloud. Better times are right around the bend.

And it was true because yesterday we had perfect weather to summit Mt. Webster and Mt. Jackson. Former thru-hiker, Rock Dancer, gave us fresh fruit and soda trail magic and provided a ride for re-supply.

We had that mental boost that we needed, and even though we can't wait to see our loved ones again, sleep in a warm bed, and eat hearty food... life on the trail is good.