Before Daniel and Kristina started their hike I read books about the Appalachian Trail and I read stories about "trail magic" and "trail angels." I assumed they were just that - stories, or at least events of the past, another time. I assumed that things like that would be rare if at all these days.I have been pleasantly surprised, and even overwhelmed to find out that trail magic still happens in 2011 and that trail angels abound. Early on Teen Bean started telling stories about finding cans of soda left in streams to stay cold for thirsty hikers and coolers of cold gatorade left by the trail that were little bits of heaven on a hot day. Then there was a group that camped by the trail for a week and fed passing hikers with hot dogs and baked beans and fruit. There was the trail angel that hiked up to their shelter one morning to pass out fresh fruit, then went on his way to the next shelter to cook them breakfast. Another angel even hiked up to their shelter with ice cream sandwiches! The most amazing event took place last Sunday. After a grueling 26 mile day in the rain and fog, over rough terrain, with several tumbles, bumps and bruises and getting to the shelter in the rain and finding it mostly full, the next day 5 worn out and dirty hikers were invited home by an "angel" family they met on the trail. They received food, not just any food but a steak dinner, a soft dry place to sleep, showers and much needed encouragement. To that family, whoever you are, thank you so much for the kindness you have shown my 2 kids and their friends. Thank you God that trail magic still happens in 2011!
posted by Mom
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