3.17.16 Day 19 18 miles

I'm hurting all over. Eighteen miles of repeated ups and downs is taxing. Luckily, I met my first trail angel today who provided me with an abundance of fruit to keep me going. I was going to camp for the night but the sun was sinking rapidly and I couldn't find a spot. So I hightailed it into Fontana lodge and was fortunate enough to find two guys willing to split a room. There names are Tim and Old Fox. They are both really good guys and I hope to spend some more nights with them. I will zero here tomorrow and then head out for a big milestone. The smokies are looming just a few miles ahead and I am anxious to see what tests they have to offer. As the great John Muir once said, "The mountains are calling and I must go."