Kentucky Cubed, Mark=Messiy, McAfee!!!

Post date: May 04, 2016 10:49:9 AM

At Johns Spring Shelter we were joined by 3 guys from Kentucky- Grand Daddy Longlegs, Just Greg, and Kentucky Rock Hopper, all retired from a coal producing plant. They were all thru hiking, but Rock Hopper was having foot issues and thought he might have to stop at least for a while. It was interesting to hear their perspective on coal vs gas. We were all happy to be in the shelter that night when it rained heavily.

On Tuesday 5/3 the plan was to hike to Daleville, 18 miles. We also knew that one of the real highlights of the trail was coming up in a few short miles- McAfee Knob. This is said to be the most photographed part of the AT and lots of locals hike to it on weekends and it can be crowded. Luckily we were there on Tuesday with possible rain in the forecast. Often something like this knob is built up so much that when you see it yourself it is a disappointment...like the Great Ponies! McAfee Knob, however, exceeded expectations. It was incredible, amazing, stupendous, and any other inadequate adjective you could throw at it. The rocky ledge jutting out into the open space and the view of the valley were simply breathtaking. And we had it all to ourselves except for a brief moment when Rock Hopper was still there which was nice because he took the pictures. We stayed 30-45 minutes marveling at the grandeur before heading on, only to be treated by a similar but less, should I use the word, awesome spectacle at Tinker Cliffs. I told Messiy he is spoiled now, having seen the best scenes of the trip on his second day! It's all downhill for him now!

We continued on to Daleville and as the trail entered the city, right in front of us was a Super 8 Hotel and a Pizza Hut- perfect as said so much these days. Now it's Wednesday morning with 5 days facing us in the trail in tents or shelters!

One more thing. Some may wonder how Mark got the name Messiy. Well, first, the guy LOVES soccer and is always watching highlights when he should be working, and frequently pulls me and others in to watch some great goal, often by the player Lionel Messi, his hero. "That's INSANE", he'll say. Second, the guy is Mr Organized, at least at work, with not a stray piece of paper or other flaw on his desk. And he never has a hair out of place, getting it cut by his buddy Roger at Great Clips every 4-5 days. So, like a heavy set guy is often called Tiny, Mark became Messy. But he protested the "y" on the end, so we compromised and he got both...therefore Messiy!

And as you may have noticed, there is now a Gallery 2, which I put a bunch of pictures on last night! I'll be needing Gallery 3 soon. Thank you Tyler!

Now at mile 728.