There were spectacular views in the Smokies from Charlie's Bunion, all along the "knife edge" where the trail drops dramatically on both sides. Since Clingman's Dome is the highest point on the trail, I was finally starting to lose some elevation. Yes, there were some climbs, but mostly downhill. I made good time and after a long day finally ended up at shelter that was below 5,000 feet. Now there was no snow on the ground and it was much warmer. I had survived one of the most difficult stretches of the trail in the South. And after three weeks of hiking, my body was beginning to get used to all the hiking and camping in the wilderness. By this time, many thru hikers drop out and quit. I wasn't going to quit! Yes, it was tough, but it was worth the effort. Finishing the Smokies gave me confidence that I could make it all the way to Maine.
On my current project, today I weighed in at 183.8 pounds. Is it still more than a few days ago? Yes. But I have to keep the big picture. I have been working on losing weight for about three weeks now. I have lost a total of three pounds. It took me 21 weeks to hike the whole Appalachian Trail. If I lose an average of one pound per week then I can reach my goal of 165 pounds. Right now I am on track. Three weeks down, three pounds lost. The small success gives me confidence that I can continue to make progress. I had pizza last night with my brother's family and my Mom. (Yes, I said pizza!) Now it's time to eat a big salad for lunch and keep making progress.
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