Day 19 - Cold Spring Shelter to Wesser Bald Tower to the NOC (Nantahala Outdoor Center). RAINNNY!

[@lizwallace273]

I can tell from your videos that you are getting tougher by the day. 10 mile day? Done. 12 mile day? Of course. You are doing great and your videos give us such a good representation of the variety of the trail. I think all that unsolicited criticism and advice is one of the most unpleasant parts of the hiking community. As an older woman, I get it all the time. A young guy in our local state park made fun of my trekking poles! Right to my face! I laughed it off, but I wanted to say, "Let's see if you are out here when you are 65, Buddy!" Keep on keeping on, Nonnie. You are amazing!

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Hi Liz! Thanks for your feedback. Yippers. I heard someone pass me the other day, with a comment, "She's kind of old." They were probably in their early 30s. And I thought, I wonder how well you will move, hike, breathe when you're almost 65, especially since you are smoking?! Oh, well! 🙈 Thanks for sharing. I appreciate your outlook!

[@thomasharrisgathering15]

I'm a Vietnam vet with PTSD. I found this video to be very comforting. Thank you.

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Dear Thomas, First, let me say I'm sorry you suffer from this. PTSD is REAL! I hope you are doing well, and have avenues that bring you comfort and joy. I appreciate your thoughtfulness in sharing your sensitive info with me. I care about veterans. You all served our country, and I am grateful for those men and women that have and do serve. Please have a good Sunday, and a great next week!

[@missys6719]

I like Miss Nonnie!

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Thank you. You're very kind!

[@roberttrough6439]

Spring is popping out. You have a few buds on those trees. That’s old man’s beard! Enjoy your day. God bless!

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

It sure is. And what a difference from yesterday to today. The tops of the trees are loaded! Thanks for the information on the moss looking stuff. Very interesting! Take good care!

[@roberttrough6439]

@@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234 😊 cold snowy stormy weather moving in several days off. Snow Pennsylvania and above 😊 don’t give up your puffy jacket 😊

[@charleneshumard2706]

Love you Girl! We call that ground cover running cedar and use it to make Christmas wreaths. When someone makes a negative comment to you just say "Point Taken". that way they won't know if you agree or disagree with them, but they are heard, and so are you. Yeah You!!! You are doing great

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Hey there, Charlene, Wise. Wise. Wise. Excellent response. One I will begin incorporating. Thank you for the suggestion. And thank you even more for your encouragement. It lifts me up more than you know. Running cedar. I think a wreath made out of those would be positively beautiful. I've never seen one but bet they are very pretty! Have a beautiful next week!

[@stculp]

@charleneshshumard thank you for encouraging my sweetheart. 👍🏻😊

[@richardross7219]

We call that moss on the tree "old man's beard". When dry, it makes a good fire starter. Another nice video. Happy Trails. Good Luck, Rick

[@dawnseely1013]

"...not in that order...". 😂. So appreciate your thoughtfulness in communicating - about everything.

[@chainsaw1206]

I remember the Nantahala's as tough ups and downs. Appreciate you giving a nod to all the trail maintainers out there! you can do this!

[@ruthanderson7684]

Nonnie you are trekking right along, taking each step as it comes. That to me is the beauty of the trail…..you never know what will be around the bend , over the next climb or in the next shelter! I had to learn early on that there are all kinds of hikers. “Thank you for the info”became my response and then Decided what fit for me.😀 Hiking into Fontana has been one of my favorite sections so far! Enjoy! You’ve got this!

[@wildflowersadventures]

What a day! You’re getting stronger each day and starting to make this look easy! I love what you taught about asking yourself the questions before you speak. I’ve always taught my children this as well. ❤

[@charlottedunlay4397]

The vet talk was probably therapeutic for them too. I agree with your comments 100%. Tell them we thank them for their service and sacrifices.

[@johnhoadley153]

You are doing great Nonnie. It is sad that you have met up with some Know-It-Alls. Hopefully they are offset by the kind and caring folks that make the AT great. I love that you are a life long learner. Keep the plant names coming. It is very helpful.

[@LionessHiker]

You are making great progress! Getting up to 10 and 12 mile days tells me you will make it. You will figure out what you are willing to part with over time. Your pack weight will decrease. Most thru hikers get their trail legs about a month into their hike. Those who start out with 20 mile days are already long distance hikers. Some have already done various long trails or the PCT or CDT. You are doing just fine acclimating to the trail gradually. Most people who end up getting off trail due to injury were typically pushing themselves too hard too soon. You are listening to your body and progressing at a safe pace. Don’t worry. You will get your trail legs and reach Katadin in time.

[@Maureen.walkdontrun]

I like “yeah me”, Nonnie. In Newfoundland we call that furry stuff “Old Man’s Beard”. Excellent for starting a fire if one is desperate and in a bind. Pretty sure one isn’t supposed to disturb it, tho. Awesome day of views. You are doing great. At those prices for food I can see why trail magic is so appreciated.

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

😊 Old Man's Beard. Interested. It's everywhere, including laying on clumps on the trail. Also, interesting that you can start a fire with it. Good to know. Trail magic is VERY appreciated. Thanks for sharing. I appreciate it!

[@garyhog64]

@@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234 My Seek app says it is Bristly Beard Lichen, so Old Man's Beard sounds like an appropriate common name.

[@rolandpinette9946]

Clicking off the miles, one step at a time--and always with a smile! You're looking like an old pro, Nonnie. Are you sure this is your first thru-hike?!! ;-) Enjoy the beautiful sunshine the next few days! And, enjoy your zero today. You earned it!

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Hi brother! 👋 Hmmm. There have been a couple of moments where I thought, REALLY? Perhaps there wasn't a smile on my face during THOSE moments! Trees trying to take me out, blinding rain, wind, and fog. Still, it's all part of the journey, right? And ... I'm smiling about it now. And you know why? BECAUSE ... I DID IT! WHOO HOO! 😊 It's been an incredible, beautiful journey this far. I'm blessed to have the opportunity to experience this kind of rare beauty. I'm so glad you're with me. You're an incredible support system. And while communication from me is minimal, it think of you often, and know you're one of my biggest cheerleaders. Big hug to you and Cheryl. Take good care. And have a great new week!

[@stculp]

Spectacular view from Wesser tower 👍🏻

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Thank you, ❤️

[@MaryTravels53]

Nonnie, you are getting it done! Even in the mud!

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Whoo baby! That mud! It's the hardest day I've had on the trail. But thanks, Mary! You're an awesome supporter!

[@SomyLomy]

Nonnie, what a day! Sometimes I don't know what else to say/write because all your experiences are precious and have meaning for you. Enjoy it, take your time, and be in the moment!! 🤗🙋‍♀️😊

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Hi Somy Lomy! I always appreciate and love hearing from my you! I'm learning how to appreciate each day for the unique moment it is. And to remember, each day is a gift. We get so busy in our everyday lives that sometimes this is forgotten. I'm so grateful to be doing this and equally appreciative of those who are cheering me on. Thank you for your friendship. It means so much to me. Big hug!

[@jamesbonner5989]

You are doing great. Hiking in mountains all day will wear you down. enjoy and relax on the zeros.

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Hey James, Thanks so much! I have found on longer days that last two miles, I say to myself, no one quits two miles from the finish line when they're running a half or full marathon. No one! Suck it up! You'll be there in a jiffy. Sometimes a jiffy is an hour or more, especially when that last leg is a 700' ascent ... but I'm determined. Thank you for your positivity. It helps tremendously!

[@amynelson9362]

I can only imagine how much you miss your husband! It's good to hear that you will be able to see each other soon. I'm sure he is very proud of you!

[@flowerpower1980]

Oh Nonnie! I did that Jump-Off with a daypack and all I could think was….how do people with a full backpack do this?! Yay, YOU!

[@npooky2545]

You are doing great every day putting in more miles. I enjoyed your views.

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Thank you so much! Those views make my heart swell. I'm glad you are enjoying them. Take good care!

[@gollwoods3854]

hope you have a good hike as you are almost to smokies. a secret campsite with cables is a 150 ft west of Cosby shelter. Cosby has few flat spots to tent. nice little pocket just to right of trail near a tiny little run off of water.

[@stculp]

Babe, i think Charlene's advice is quite profound about knuckleheads, "Point Taken"....and move on, they don't deserve any more. You are doing a fabulous job; stay strong, persistent, dogged and tenacious. AND....I MISS YOU TREMENDOUSLY SWEETHEART! 😘

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

As soon as she shared that advice, all I could think about was you and your way of looking at things. I agree with both of you. Thank you, and I love you too.

[@karjurassic8364]

Wow. Views from Wesser were beautiful!!! 💕💕💕 Be safe out there! ✌🏻💕

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Thank you so much. I'm trying! 😊 Have a beautiful day!!

[@chasing-the-afterglow]

My tent is on the heavy side too...but I love it. It depends on what is important to you. If you really get tired of hauling the weight, you can always change some things.. Hope it stops raining soon!!

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Hi Carla, I have to say, I do LOVE my tent. I'm more inclined to keep it at this point ... but at this point, it's still early in the journey, and I may change my mind. Rain. It could rain a little less, and I would cry about it. 😊 Have a fabulous new week!!

[@fitnessfreak498]

great videos

[@BOSmith1958]

Hey Girl. You are doing great still. Dont fret the milage so much yet. It is only day 19. It takes time to get those trail legs and I see much progress. Be patient. My bet is things will pick up and your body will get stronger in the next few weeks. Most say a month or a little more for the trail legs to start really kicking in. Slow and steady increases as your body allows. Noonie Go.

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Hi Bobby! Yesterday was a 14.2 mile day. Boy. I was tired but I did it! Hopefully, it's just another week or two and 15 mi. days will be more the norm. If not, we'll just do the best we can, right?😉 Thank you so much for your encouragement. It makes all the difference in the world!

[@judithpearson3968]

Good morning Nonnie, Yay Nonnie, you are doing so well. I'm impressed 2 mph is really pretty good. I'd be lucky if I could do 2 ft/ hr. Boy those views are absolutely phenomenal. Nonnie, anytime you get 2 vets together they are going to tell war stories. Poor Carol sees that every time she takes me to VA. (I haven't been able to drive in years). You are doing great. Making good time. Taking care of yourself. Keeping your spirits up. I am so incredibly proud of you. Have a good zero. Know that I think of you and pray for you daily. Lady, I'm getting us to Katahdin. Stay safe.

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Dear Judith, You sweet woman! We're doing really well. You hiked 14.2 miles yesterday. And you never complained. Okay, well, when I told you there was no candy, you did pout for a while but impressively got over it when a trail maintainer offered me a Moonpie. You grabbed it from me before I had a chance to even thank him. Really? Let's work a bit on grabbing my junk food right out from under me! Thank you for being a phenomenal support system. You've been exceptionally, and it means the world to me. You just can't know how you often make me smile. Yes, the stories. Sad. Hard. Deeply significant. My admiration and respect for veterans increases every day. There A LOT OF THEM hiking this trail. They are unique, and special, and wonderful, and appreciated. That goes for YOU TOO!! Big hug!!

[@judithpearson3968]

@Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike 2023; Nonnie Hikes Nonnie. Couldn't help myself. I just love moon pies even when there sre candy bars are available. And when there aren't... well you saw how fast I can move. Will work on not grabbing your food from you but when there's chocolate involved. No guarantees. Love ya. Judy.

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

@Judith Pearson I'm laughing my head off. Oh lord, you make me laugh! Well, hopefully, the next person will offer gummy bears, and I'll not have to worry about you! Too funny!!🐻

[@Bohonk212]

HAHA! Yep. That's one gnarly 'mostly decent' into NOC. Especially in the wet. Saw a number complain of shin splints after that one. And 3500' foot climb right out of NOC (more if you go straight on to Jacob's Ladder). Pace will come. Give it time. Took me almost 7 weeks to get to VA but less than 5 to finish VA.

[@tj3954]

You are doing great!! Thanks for sharing your journey. 😀

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Hi TJ, First, I know you have made several comments. I apologize for not responding to them. I always appreciate what you write, even though my schedule doesn't allow appropriate time to respond. Second, thank you for your uplifting comments. They always make me happy. I appreciate you and your positivity and thoughtfulness. Thank you kindly! Have a fabulous new week!

[@tj3954]

@@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234 You do not need to respond to my comments. You are busy woman! lol I just want to encourage you to keep going and enjoy your hike. I am so excited to see so many female thru hikers in 2023. I am not able to hike the AT because of work commitments, etc. BUT, I can cheer other ladies on! I hope you have a safe and blessed day!

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

@TJ Had a moment today to respond and wanted me take advantage of it. You're awesome. Thank you. You're just the bee's knees!

[@tj3954]

@@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234 Awww ...Thank you for taking the time to respond to my comments! I really appreciate your attitude and spirit!

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

@@tj3954 Thank you! Have a sweet Sunday!!

[@angelamays8145]

You are doing great! AWOL says if you hike 12miles a day you will make it to Katahdin. I didn't lighten my pack til Erwin then only because of feet issues. I had choices to make and each choice has it's consequences. Your choice, your hike. Do what YOU want. In my opinion you are smelling the roses and doing a fine job. The jump off is breathtaking. No shame in butt scooting.😂

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Thanjs for your support. I always enjoy it when I hear from you. Big hug!

[@luckyotter623]

You're making great progress! You're getting close to the Smokies. The trail is starting to green up, how nice! You got this, Nonnie!

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Hey there! Slow and steady. But I'm getting there! Thank you for your positive energy. It makes such a difference. I appreciate it so very much!

[@Maureen.walkdontrun]

Perhaps SAS could be a good trail name. Slow and steady.

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

@@Maureen.walkdontrun That's a great suggestion! 👍 I'll ponder on that one! Thanks!

[@tamiovickery]

Hello Nonnie On! Hope ya enjoying this beautiful day on the trail!! It is 79 degrees and sunny here in Charleston SC.Are you still at theNOC or moved on? Have you met Renee from Couch to Trail? Yall seem to be on the same schedule right now. Bad at is another hiker around the NOC right now and she is a hoot!! Anyway, hope all ia well and you are healthy and Noonie On!!!

[@tamiovickery]

That should be #badbat

[@mandm6587]

I hike slow too, but ya know you have to do what suits your body not someone else's. If you go too fast for your body you may end up hurting yourself. Thank-you for all your thoughtful comments about different people on the trail and dealing with them. Take care and keep stepping.

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Hi M and M! Yep. Suh-lowwww! Most of the time, I think, you know, I'm doing the best I can, but then hikers fly past me, and I think, what's wrong with me? I don't understand how they can hike that fast. Then I think, well, they're 30 to 40 years younger than me ... and there you go!! I probably am going a little more slowly than I typically would. After that fall on Blood Mountain, I am exceedingly focused because I don't want that to happen again. Sometimes, I wonder if I should really share everything I observe on the trail because no one wants to hear less than positive information. But my nature is to be honest and do so with a balanced approach. I hope it's received well by others. So, thank you for sharing your thoughts with me. I appreciate your feedback very much. Have a great Sunday!

[@roberttrough6439]

How unfortunate it is that people don’t have filters. I know I’ve gotten dragged into some negative issues. I think they call it baiting? So I’m more alert to being baited. I can always walk away. I’m too old for that stuff. Hahaha 🤪 enjoy your day Nonnie. You Can do it!

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Me too! I agree. Aging is often unkind, but it also often pays exponential dividends when it comes to understanding people, and having some wisdom. Air. We all breathe it, right? Some air is more toxic than other air. I choose to take deeper breaths when the air is cleaner. So, when I'm surrounded by pollution, shallow breaths until the cleaner air surrounds me.

[@garyhog64]

Based on what I have seen from past hikers, there are actually tent sites on that hill above the shelter. That's what the sign is pointing to.

[@katerogers1048]

I think my response to the ‘splainers’ would be something along the lines of ‘do you think I don’t know that?(my pack is too heavy or whatever they’re telling you is wrong). But then I’m a sarcastic person at the best of times. Not nearly as nice as you are Nonnie!

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

Hi Kate, Well...sometimes I am "thinking" that. You're funny. Thank you for sharing. You made me smile. Have a fabulous Sunday!

[@kayhooper5672]

Just a fun fact...lichen is used by hummingbirds and other birds in their nest to soften it. And those dreaded spiderwebs? Yeah, those are what hummingbird nests are made of..😀. hike on.

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

What? Their nests are made from spider's webs? Really?! That's FASCINATING! That's a big win for me! So interesting! I didn't know about the lichen information either. Wowee. You sure know how to get my attention! Thanks for sharing. I loved receiving these comments. Take care and have a great next week!

[@nerakdane]

How to others know how heavy your pack is can I ask? Sweet heavens the drops, are you afraid of heights and yes a big Yay You

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

What an excellent question! No one knows how much someone else's backpack weighs. Although hikers are interesting, curious, funny, and loyal to a point with each other, there are some that ask the most ridiculous questions. Many videos have been done on this. Questions that you just look at a person, and think, what? Did you really ask me that? Lots of arrogance from some more advanced hikers that don't have tolerance for newbies. Of course, a lighter pack is easier. But no one carries your pack for you. And, honestly, I met A LOT of hikers that carried 30 lbs. Especially in the winter. I soon learned to ignore it but was always astonished that someone would be that bold and thoughtless. It's just part of the journey. It's laughable really. Hikers, for the most part, are the best people. Kind, caring. Funny. A joy. But there are always a few. And, yes, you get to run into them. All you can do is shake your head and marvel. Oh, well! ;-) I guess I'm afraid of heights in certain situations but I wasn't on the trail. I did great. That tower was incredible. I loved it. Have a beautiful day, and thank you for your interest. Again, I apologize for the delay in responding. Happy New Year to you!

[@nerakdane]

Thank you for taking the time and many happy returns @@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234

[@michaelessig6376]

I can't help thinking that Nonnie is stuck in a bubble of Jerks. If someone complains about the weight of your pack just laugh and say, "I didn't realize you were offering to carry my pack. . . No thanks I got it, its not too heavy for me."

[@appalachiantrailthru-hike2234]

😊 Michael, honestly, as much as I hate to admit it, I am becoming convinced it is a gender, age, height issue. Often others feel better about themselves, more powerful or important, when they can find a way to put another down. I can't tell you how many times I've heard I am old on this journey. And, I am older. BUT I am young at heart, and wonder how well they would do if they were almost 65, 5'3", and had a 32 lb. pack. Fortunately, what they want to transfer upon me slides off because I know who I am. I'm strong and not to sound ridiculous, but I'm brave. No one can take that from me unless I let them. And, well, that's just NOT going to happen. I appreciate your support. It's your comments, and comments like these, that assist in staying strong. I appreciate them very well.

[@laurieraulston4281]

Nonnie could say the famously direct response I used to tell my young kids when they inquired inappropriately about grown up business - “Nun yas” aka nine of your business. Geez. People need boundaries training.

[@tvtoms]

Observations over peoples gear must be bread and butter to gear-heads so don't take it as personal judgement. Someone that interested in talking about gear is interested in the gear. The only thing you have to gear is... gear itself.

[@suehancock5573]

Noonie you are doing so great!! 😊. I am so proud of you!! 👏👏👏👏👏👏. If you are comfortable with your pack and what ever you carry that’s all that matters!! I love your videos and I see you getting more confident each and every day!! 👍👍. Don’t listen to others. Hike your own hike and take one step at a time!! ❤. Now rest up and Hike On!! Go Noonie Go!! 🏕️🧗‍♀️🥾🪨🪵☔️