Projects continued at Eric and Ashley's home this morning in earnest. I was busy as soon as I got up, working first on the deck to do some wood replacement so Ashley can refinish it before the rainy season returns. Then I got busy in the garage, hanging large bicycle hooks from the joists so the bikes could be hung from the ceiling out of the way. I must have inspired Ashley to join me in further reorganization of the garage; we spent the balance of the morning moving tools to new spots on the peg board, sweeping and vacuuming, and in general opening up a lot of additional walking space in the tight two car garage.
By the time we finished sprucing the garage it was lunch time. Ashley reminded me that I only had two meals left in Portland before returning to trail life. Naturally I wanted Thai food one last time so we drove over to a great restaurant near the house and I had a great Panang curry dish which was just what I crave while on the trail.
After lunch we ran some grocery store errands. I especially like putting cans in the recyling center and getting money back...wish they would do that in North Carolina.
When we returned to the homestead, I continued the deck project then broke away to seam seal my new tarptent so it will be ready for the rainy season in Washington this fall. Dinner was another craving fulfilled, Greek food, which we brought back to the house so I could give the deck one last bit of attention before nightfall.
Tonight I've packed the backpack and it is in the car, ready to go to the airport bright and early tomorrow morning. I hope I'm doing the right thing by returning to the trail now. It feels right, but the foot could certainly use some more healing time. It feels fine to walk, I just wish the incision would be completely closed over and dried before hiking big miles again.
Eric and Ashley have been amazing hosts and have really taken great care of me. Having Maggie and Lucy around constantly has been a joy as well. I've grown attached to the three ladies of the house, and look forward to getting back to the Portland area again soon...this time on foot!
Back to the trail!! Let's take a long walk...only 1,700 and some change miles to go!
