Trail Days

it's been a long week. (Right: Mt. Tammany, NJ from Mt. Minisi, PA)
i should update earlier than this. probably when things are most fresh in my head.



but here are some pictures from my 4 hour trail run (yes, run) on the AT outside the water gap. i jumped on the trail after 5 hours taking the combined PPST. i needed some rough rocky trails to destroy myself on. i met 6 through hikers and instantly became jealous. its been hard getting back into shape, not after losing 25 pounds (again) but really just from forced inactivity after getting my tattoo. i've really wanted this one to heal well, and it has, but keeping from sweating has proved difficult.
Above and left: Hello, Lehigh smokestacks. Right: Rhododendron sp.
Below and center: According to my compass, Mnt. Mansfield is exactly that direction. the geodetic marker also helped....

my only wish was that someone was there with me to enjoy this afternoon. listening to the olive flycatchers and red eyed vireos (not to mention the longing call of the mourning dove) was peaceful and rewarding after such a stark morning.