Day 45

04/14/12 - near US 58 - ≈473 miles

We took our time leaving Damascus, which was nice.  Said goodbye to Jeff & Nicky, breakfast at Dairy King, then coffee at Mojoe's.  Mmm.  Also ordered a new headlamp from REI with my dividend.  Somewhat of a tummy ache right now.  Giant mammoth bugs are crashing into things outside our tents.  Hoping the bear bag makes it tonight... If a bear or any other animal really wanted it, they would have a blast.  But seriously, I am very thankful for all of God's blessings throughout this trip.  I try to remind myself that He is always in control, and that seems very evident everyday on this journey.
* First night we had to defend our camp.  Some animal (maybe a raccoon or fox or smallish bear) came running towards our tents.  Couldn't see it, but we made some noise and it took off in the other direction.  See page 58 in guidebook for illustration of the defense.

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Defending the camp.

Day 44

04/13/12 - Damascus - 466.9 miles

Staying at Ruby's Rest tonight, and so glad things worked out this way.  Hiked 7ish miles into town, trying to call Ruby's to see if they had any vacancy but no answer.  No service once we got into town.  Walked to the Lazy Fox B&B and the sweet 128 year old lady answered the door and said she had no vacancy.  Walked out of our way to find Ruby's Rest but so worth it.  It's run by Jeff & Nicky and their two girls and dog and cat and chickens.  Super nice people and really cute/cozy stay.  Lunch at Dairy King.  Dinner at Quincy's Pizza.  So much food!  Jeff put two beers in the fridge for us... drinking those tomorrow.  Nice family.  Saw TickleMonster and a few others in town.  We are in Damascus.  We are in Virginia.  Wow!

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Ruby's Rest was hands down one of my favorite town stays on the Trail.

Ruby's Rest, Damascus.