Jennifer called earlier this evening. They are near Bland, VA and still with their core group of fellow hikers. Their feet are feeling much better now in their new boots - especially after eliminating their DownUnders insoles. Not a good recommendation. Super Feet work much better. They are still looking forward to seeing their friend Courtney this week. They will update the blog themselves while at Courtney's.

They had some great trail magic this morning. After hiking about 5 miles from the shelter where they spent Sunday night the hikers came to a road crossing where there were 3 gentlemen waiting with their trucks to shuttle hikers to their church for a hot cooked breakfast (there was a note in the shelter saying this happened on Monday mornings - so they knew it was safe). The kind people at New Hope Union church (Bastian, VA) piled their plates full, shuttled some into town to resupply, and shuttled the rest back to the trailhead. Thanks so much to the folks of this church. Trail magic really fills the bellies and lifts the spirits of the hikers.

I just want to make a quick comment. It was so nice to read the note from Jerry & Judy. It's so neat that you are enjoying the girl's blog, and we appreciate your interest in and prayers for them. I knew that it is a whole community of hikers on the trail, but never thought about the community of parents as well!