Here I am again… in the middle of the woods with little to no cell service, having the most peaceful day of my life. I’m currently at New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia, and this is probably the oddest national park I’ve been to so far. No entrance fee, no parking pass, no campsite reservation required—everything is first come, first served. Which, in a way, is amazing because, let’s face it, I’m spending two nights here with absolutely no dent in my wallet.
But the one thing that did get me: NO RUNNING WATER. This meant I panicked last minute and picked up three gallons of water at Walmart.
It’s safe to say I haven’t showered, but at least I doused myself in citronella to protect against the bugs, so I still smell pretty good. Technically, I’m glowing because I’m covered in oil. Also, I forgot to mention that “free” invites the crazy, and I’ve definitely seen a little crazy since I got here…
My campsite neighbors have pets. Not the normal kind. They have two parrots, and then one tiny bird that sits on the man’s shoulder… and, of course, the smallest little rat dog you’ve ever seen. Poor thing is matted to hell and smells like poo. Who doesn’t love free entertainment? It’s one of the best things about camping.
Now, onto the next topic: two days ago, I hiked Mount LeConte in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. FOURTEEN. FREAKING. MILES. And SIX THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED NINETY-THREE FEET of elevation! I almost died—and bless the poor boy who came with me, who had never hiked in his life. I don’t think I’ll ever convince him to go outside again.
But hey… I made it. And so did he. Therefore, we are better than anyone who never has. Better at absolutely torturing our bodies until we can’t walk the next day, that is. Pain is temporary, pride is forever. (Someone please laugh at that.)
Sometimes I don’t know if my jokes come through the screen the way I plan, but one can only hope.
Anyway, I’m done rambling now. TOODLES!