At a Hostel in Hot Springs

Finally touched base with Ward via text messages.  The Spot is lost, but we will have another one in place next week.

Ward made it to Hot Springs on Friday as planned.  He stayed in a hostel last night, but only had the ability to send/receive text messages - no phone or internet.  He commented that he may pick up a phone signal when he's in town, which tells me the hostel may be located outside town.  I haven't heard from him as of the time of this writing, so he either forgot to call or did not get a signal.  Regardless, we know he's OK.

He and Matt will split up today, as Matt plans to take a zero.  They often hike separately during the day and meet at a shelter at night.  They probably need time apart, but they probably like knowing someone else is around, as there aren't many hikers on the AT this time of year.  That's especially true for them, as they left Springer Mountain earlier than most.

Ward is pushing on so he can meet me in Erwin, TN next week.  We have a pre-set meeting location and time, when I will pick up his backpack.  This will allow him to "slackpack" from that point to Erwin, where I'll pick him up later in the day.  Slackpacking means to hike without a pack - a savings of about 40-45 lbs depending on his food and water stock.  Ward plans to take a zero in Erwin, where he'll wash clothes, re-supply, and rest.  I can't wait to see him.  We're lucky that I have some flexibility over the next month.