Relocation

April 5, 2002- Friday- Day 161
1:45pm- I am going to move my camp today, its just to far to walk to the store. Like that should bother me, huh! It is different when I have to carry stuff in my hands and the trip is always the same. I have to figure 3 trips to the store is something like 10 miles or more. I like to get what I need and not half to struggle to get back and enjoy it. I saw a patch of woods down by Ingles, but I don't know whats in there yet. Have to go explore it first.
This is a pretty cool way to live though, I have to agree with that kind of logic. I don't know when it will become not so thrilling, but then it will be time to re-adapt. Then I can go back to my old mantra-"Taken from here to where it came from and taken to a place and used in such a manner that it can only remain as a representation of what it was where it came from"
I like being on the lake but its no good for a foot soldier.

Phone Home!

April 4, 2002- Thursday- Day 160
3:15pm- Me and Skil's just got back from walking down to Ingles Grocery. Earlier Junior came by and we sat and talked for a while. It was nice just hanging out and having a couple beers on the lake. When I walked to Ingles I called home and the phone number belongs to someone else now. I guess Laura changed the number, so I couldn't call. Well, such is life! Across the street from where I am camped is the local fly fishing hole, I guess. I went over early this morning and watched them try and catch these little stocked rainbow trout. The ones I seen caught were on the average 7" long. We have bream in S. Florida that would eat these trophys of the north Georgia woods. I am going to walk around the lake shore and do a little exploring with my partner in a bit. Maybe we'll find some atifacts or something left over from the Civil War.

Junior Ridings, Is That You!

April 3, 2002- Wednesday- Day 157

8:00am- Me and Skil's found a old road up on a mountain that was somewhat flat, so we pitched camp for the night. We don't have much of a view here, I'm kind of looking down on a store roof. I just feel like I am heading in the wrong direction going this way. I am going down to the store and call Hank and buy a map.

8:30am- I called Hank and he is coming to pick us up, Good ole' Hanky! While I was down in the store I saw a guy who was staring at me and I stared back, because he was sure familiar. I just couldn't place him, and anyway I must have been mistaken. He was probably a pervert out trolling.

It will be good to see Hank, though!

4:00pm- Hank showed up and we went to Elijay, Hank bought lunch, then we went to Blairsville to the Home Depot, to get some stuff for the house Hanks building. We went to his house and I got to see Cynthia and the kids, damn, they have grown. A really great family and really good friends. Junior pulled up and I couldn't believe what I was seeing, he was the same guy from the store this morning. We had a good laugh over that. He thought he knew me and I thought I knew him. Neither one of us would ask "who are you"? I have known this guy so long, I have no idea why I didn't recognize him. Hank was building a huge house across the street from his other house. Now, that makes about 5 houses he owns. That one in the Redlands in Fl. is probably worth over a million by itself. This one he said was around $350,000 and he got all this with a hawk and trowel. Poor guy can't read or nothing, so he just accumulated all his wealth by hard work, and saving his money. Good for Hank!

He ask me to hang around a few days and I agreed, so he took me to 'Lake Blue Ridge' and I set up camp there. It is a great big old lake and the temps. are cool enough, I shouldn't have to much company. It would take a hard-core individual to go swimming this time of year. The walk to the store is a little uncomfortable, over a mile down the highway. I feel that I'll be alright now, I am among friends.

Blue Ridge Exit!

April 2, 2002- Tuesday- Day 158

8:30am- I almost started to walk back to Hank's, but whats the use? I don't even know if I was at the right house, but I didn't see any signs of life down the road. We just went back to Blue Ridge to contemplate the next historical move. I'll give him another call on my way out of town. Me and Skil's just hung out most of the day on Ada Road and 515 in the woods out of the sun. I'll leave when its gets a little cooler. This sudden change in the weather, sucks! I was just getting to enjoy freezing my ass off all the time. Suppose to be more rain tomorrow, that is always great news. I see a sign that says Jasper is the next town. I better think about getting a map before I leave here. I want to try and get back on US64, if at all possible. Doesn't seem like a town that is all that interesting, seems kinda boring. I better hit the road!

April Fools!

April 1, 2002- Monday- Day 157
9:00pm- We got off to a slow start this morning and we are only about 3 miles out of Murphy. I spent a little too much money there and that concerns me some. I have to practice frugality on a more serious side. My friendly weather person said this morning we should have 2 good days of weather before it turns sour again. We are going to take a short break here and hit the road, I don't see anything down the road that says civilization. So, we'll move as much as we can today. It doesn't look like its going to be a pleasant road for walking, either. The same old no-shoulder type road I have been having night-mares over the last 2 weeks. So much fun, I can't stand it.
12:00 noon- We got another lucky break today and I am placed safely in Blue Ridge Ga. A fellow by the name of Mike Shaw, a fellow member of the 'Apalachion Trail Conference' picked us up and like all the other rides asked if I was headed for the trail. I would hate to have to rely on these peoples directions, it is plain as day to me I am heading away from the A.T. I shouldn't be to hard on them though, there are signs along the trail about every hundred yards. No signs along here, so they are totally lost, I guess!
We are across the bridge from downtown Blue Ridge and I don't see any of those mountains that Hank is always talking about. I see a few rolling hills, that's about all. Maybe they only bring them out at night. I better start looking for a phone book, and see if I can locate my little buddy Hank.
2:00pm- My luck has changed a bit, I got hold of Hank, he has moved up here and left Miami behind. Great, let the Cubans have it! He gave me directions to his house and we headed that way. Odd that he lives on Galloway Rd. and he lived on Galloway Rd. in Miami. We walked about 5 miles and I found Galloway Rd. and I think I found Hank's house, but didn't see any movement or any lights. I waited out of sight for about an hour and a half, and nothing. Well, my luck ran out, so we headed back to Blue Ridge and I'll call him on my way out of town tomorrow. I love hank and his family, and would like to see them, before I go on, but I have to go on and get out of these hill-billy haunts.
6:00pm- I am half way back to Blue Ridge and its getting dark, so me and Skil's decided to look for a spot of woods to pitch camp. I know that I can't oversleep around here, because we are probably on private property. I never sleep late anyway, but will have to be quiet as a mouse. I hope this was not an April Fools joke of Hank's.

Happy Easter!!

March 31, 2002- Sunday- Day 156

Well dang it, today is Easter and I didn't get Skil's an Easter basket.What kind of daddy am I? The truth is I didn't know it was Easter, so I won't mention it to him. We decided not to leave today and try to dry everything and avoid carrying that extra 50lbs. of water. I got over to the town this morning and it is really a nice town. Real old-fashioned type, a bell ringing at the church, calling all to service. "On a Sunday morning sidewalk. I'm wishin' lord that I was stoned......Etc." I may be feeling a might melancholy this fine morning. I tried to get hold of Bill and Margret , but The phone number I have is not in service at this time. They are not listed in the book either. Oh Oh!, thats not a good sign. I regret not coming up to visit when they ask me, Lord that was 10 years ago, Damn!

I have seen a lot of trees barreling past in the river, I am guessing that storm we had yesterday, created some havoc up in the mountains. The river has risen at least 2 feet, since I got here. Great place and wish there was someway I could hang out some more, but got to move on tomorrow. We are going to head for Blue Ridge Ga. tomorrow, I think I can get pretty close in one day. I don't think its over twenty miles, but nothing I think I know, holds much water anymore. Only my clothes

Murphy's Law- Rain Even if not Needed!

March 30, 2002- Saturday- Day 155

A wicked rain fall today that has everything soaking wet. I am going to be carrying a lot of weight if I leave here before all this shit dries. I still can't get over the fact I can't buy a damn beer here. I have been through dry counties, counties that only sold 3.2 beer, but never one that sold hard-liquor only. Earlier I saw a pack of wild-dogs pass through here and they were on the hunt, for sure. Skil's stood his ground and my presence nearby convinced them to keep on moving. We ate breakfast at MacDonalds this morning between outbursts of falling water. We are going to walk over into town as soon as we can, just to look around. I'll try to see if I can locate Bill Kroll too. This rain just isn't showing no sign of easing up, though. I can't believe the campsite we have, boy, this is as good as it gets. Wish I had my fly-rod, I bet I could snatch a fish or two out of this river.

Smoky Mountain News

March 29, 2002- Friday- Day 154

8:00am- All I know now, is that we are sitting in the mountains somewhere. We could possibly be at the half-way mark to Murphy, just don't know. We started out at 6:00am this morning and have yet to pass anything that passes for civilization, so far. I mean, we have not seen anything since we left Franklin, and its time to think about feeding Skil's. I am sitting here counting up all our assets, and they add up to the minus side. No cigarettes, no food, no water, no damn sense!

I can see around the curve and up where it turns out of sight and cars keep stopping and getting out of their vehicle. From here, I can't tell what they are doing, but I'll know soon enough. My curiosity is getting the better of me, I think I'll amble on up the hill and get me some of what ever it is they are getting. I just hope there's enough to go around.

9:00am- Well, I have discovered the attraction that these folks are utilizing, a spring fed pipe coming out of the mountain. I have seen these in Pennsylvania, suppose to be really good water, I thought so, as did the baby. I searched around for an empty bottle to carry some with us. Now, I armed and ready for battle with this upward enemy of mine.

12:45pm- Me and Skil's were just getting to Shooting Creek when a car that I had seen before pulled along side of us. He offered us a ride to Hayesville. Along the way, he proceeded to tell me that he was a reporter for the 'Smoky Mountain Press' and he was headed to Murphy to cover a tennis match for school kids. Then he said, he might have a whole lot better story right here with me. Huh? He asked if he could buy me lunch and talk for a bit. What the hell, why not? I'm not busy at the moment. He took us to the 'Huddle House" in Hayesville and we talked for over an hour. He seemed like, what I am doing , that he would gladly do in a heart beat. He convinced me that this will make a great story for the paper, and he would send a copy to my house in Naples. It is a weekly paper and I would have to hang around to get a copy.But I would like to read what he thinks about me and Skil's endeavor to walk around the world. He ended up giving us a ride all the way to Murphy, I guess to see if he could still scoop his tennis match. I was kind of glad to part company with him, he kept trying to pet Skil's. I told him that animal isn't made for petting, oh he says, "I have a way with dogs" I said the last 4 people he put in the hospital said that very thing. The little guy looks so huggable, though, can't blame someone for thinking he's normal. I am the only person he won't bite, he ripped Laura's leg open as a puppy, and he loves his mommy. I unloaded one pair of jeans and am wearing cut-offs and it is better than an orgasm. But looking at my legs I kind of look like a snowbird. I have never had white legs. Wow, what 7 months of wearing long pants will do to a man, slap-out ruin him.

6:30pm- We located a great place to set up camp, it is down in a low-lying wooded area right on the banks of the 'Hiwasse River' and talk about riding the wild water. It could surely be done on this river, I sure would like to give it a try, but I would believe it is cold, very cold, right now. I ate at Mickey D's under the Golden Arches, been awhile. I seen a little Cocker Spaniel type dog in here when I came in, I guess another unwanted pet.Shame! I remember when I found Skil's and was gonna cut his throat to put the little guy out of his misery. Laura wouldn't have none of that, I told her if you want to try and save that dog, you'll get no help from. Not dime and keep the mutt away from me. David Kight was on Laura's side and he put the little thing in his truck. Broken hips, mange, worms so bad, I thought he would pop.. But she did tit on her own, she shamed the city council into paying for it. The dog took up with me and now, I can't stand it if I don't know where he's at. I am prepared to kill or be killed over this dog, odd way to be.

Skil's said it would be okay if I got a six-pack of beer and we sat on the bank of the river for a while. I said,"Skil's you always know just what to say" I came through a few dry towns, to get this far, but I wasn't ready for this turn-around. I walked to the package store and they don't sell beer in Murphy, They sell all the hard liquor a body could possibly want, but no beer. I know I've have passed through some kind of portal into another dimension. We ended up with a pint of Gordon's vodka, I started to get a bottle of Tocka vodka in memory of my mother. I'm sure that is what killed her. But I got to hang out until after Skil's passes on, then I can do what I want then. I'll be to sad to do anything, who am I kidding.

Sitting on the Appalachian Trail!

March 28, 2002- Thursday- Day 153
1:30pm-Me and Skil's are taking a break on the famous 'Appalachian Trail' I wish that I knew I would end up here, I would have got enough food for the trail down into Georgia. We left walking this morning and hadn't got far before we were picked up. A pick-up pulled over and pointed to the back, where 2 other hikers were planted. They were hiking the trail as far as D.C. and this was their first mail drop ( a mail-drop is where you send food ahead of you, and the P.O. holds it for you) Odd that I am a member of the Appalachian Trail conference and never been on the trail overnight, just odd. This couple had a dog and the little guy had his own back-pack, they made him carry his own food. I didn't say it, byt I was thinking,What a couple of ass-holes. Skil's is my best friend, if I wanted a mule I have a mule.
The sign here says that Murphy is 39 miles, that sounds like 2 days if no rides come along. I still haven't lowered myself to hitch-hike, that little sign in Ga. was as close as I got. The cold weather showed its ugly face again last night, I was hoping that these 50's would hang out for a while. I would like to see it warm up enough to don a pair of shorts, and I could trash some of these jeans. I never noticed how heavy they were until I loaded them on my back for an uphill climb. A lot of hikers heading north. I talked to another hiker doing a through hike, which is Mt. Katadin in Maine. He said there were hundreds on the trail since he started at Springer Mt. Most, he told me were thru-hikers, but he said in his opinion most won't make it. This was his second thru-hike, so I guess he would know. The crowd is what has kept me from doing a thru-hike, I kind enjoy my own company. No one has any information on what lies in front of me towards Murphy. I hope there is some thing out there, I only brought enough food to feed Skil's tonight. A can of food weighs 22oz. and every pound feels like a ton.

My Road is Worse Than Your Road!

March 27, 2002- Wednesday- Day 152
11:30am- I am moving good this morning, some days are better than others, for sure. Me and the little guy are on the other side of Highlands, due to another friendly Tarheel. Just outside of Cashiers, we were looking up at this road and the terrain just kept going higher and higher. It went on forever and the thought of this hike was already hurting and we haven't even started yet. A car pulled up and said that if I wanted to avoid the torture that lay in front of us, hop in. All the way to Highlands, I took note of what would have been the worst walk in my life. No shoulders and everything seemed to fall off the end of the earth. Up and up, when will this country flatten out? I have no idea, and was very thankful for the ride. The kind gentleman dropped us off at the town Bi-Lo, which gave me a chance to get Skil's some food for the road. I can't depend on getting a ride everytime the road gets to be a chore to climb. This part of US64 could be considered a man-killer rather than a scenic highway.
4:30pm- Leaving Highlands I kept noticing signs concerning 'Bridal Falls', now I know for a fact that 'Bridal Falls' are in Yosemite in California. So, what is going on? I passed a road directing folks to 'Dry Falls' (dry falls? how is that possible?) True to my information signs I have been seeing, we are at 'Bridal Falls' Me and Skil's took a break here and explored the falls some, we went behind the water and I was thinking what a neat place to pitch my tent. Probably not a good idea, and I for once, heeded my own advice. It was to early to even think about stopping. I have no knowledge of the road ahead, and what lies between here and Franklin, NC. Which is my target for today, whether we succeed in making it that far, I don't know. But we'll be really close.
Leaving the falls, I passed a Goverment truck with one occupant eating his lunch. We did our good-afternoons and I went my way. A half-mile down the road my G-Man friend stopped and said come on and ride to Franklin with him. He was telling me this is the worst section of US64, I am starting to believe that each town wants bragging rights for the most terrible section of road. The last ride told me the same thing about his section between Cashiers and Highlands. This is getting comical. I would never try to impress someone with a miserable stretch of road. The weather, mountains, peacefulness, anything but a trecherous uphill torture chamber. These people need to get out more!
Great!, we have arrived safely and not to tired in the booming metropolis of Franklin, NC. My Goverment guy brought us right into this Hick-Town and dropped us near the Wal-Mart. Of course, he had to get out of his truck and lead me and Skil's in prayer. I'm getting use to it now, it bothered me at first, but seems to be the rage outside of Florida. This would make at least a half-dozen times, that I have stood out in the street in broad daylight while some holey-roller prayed. I always come through like a champ though, I can throw my arms up and holler "Praise The Lord" as well as anybody. It would only seem out of place if I tried that on Bird Road. I am going over to the Wal-Mart, and then we will look for a place to set up our condo for the night. I see a sign that puts Murphy at the 55 mile mark. Should make it by the week-end. I have Bill and Margerets phone number, I'll give them a call when I arrive, maybe I can beg up a shower. I am curious if they opened another Bil-Mar up here in the Smoky Mountains. "The Smoky Mountain Bil-Mar" We serve SweetWater! This altitude change must have addled my brain.Ha Ha!

The Cashier Trail

March 26, 2002-Tuesday- Day 151

5:00pm- We arrived in Cashiers last night an hour before dark, just in time to find a place to pitch camp before the rain came. It has rained steady all day and we made one trip into town to look around. They have a trail to walk and explore the history, so Skil's wanted to go see what made this place tick, Who am I to argue with his logic? Of course the name of this trail is, The Cashier Trail, should have known! We stopped at a camping store and I priced tents, almost bought one, but I didn't want to part with $160.00 just yet. I'll stay with the Wal-Mart special I am using now. The trail just covered the tourist traps and had nothing to do with history, as far as I could tell. I don't think that the Cherokee's shopped here before they were led out on the trail of tears to Oklahoma. I guess they could have, though! The rain must be making me looney. I hope the weather shows us some love and goes away before morning. I don't want to hang out here to long.Probably a nice place, but nothing here, unless you are a tourist. I passed a lot of Golf Courses since I passed Lake Toxaway. That should have alerted me that we were entering snowbird country. I have a Bi-Lo across the street and I am going to amble on over and get us supper. It will be a cold meal tonight, due to my location. A fire or smoke may not go over well with the locals.On to Highlands in the morning, I am seeing blue patches of sky.

Over The Lesser Divide!

March 25, 2002- Monday- Day 150

7:30am- We have just passed over the Eastern Continental Divide, I didn't know there was one. Then, again, anybody thats doing what I'm doing, probably would never be accused of having any sense anyway. (elev. 2,964ft.) Thats about 11,000 less than the other Divide that we will be crossing, during the summer, I hope! We are taking a break after the hike up to the top, I am hoping that it goes down, now. I am looking over the vista and I see a Golf Course winding around the mountain, down below us. I am not a golfer, but if I was I would like to play here. It is like on a stair-case, really imaginative lay-out. I can see houses(large houses) spread out through the woods. This must be a rich-mans neighborhood. Not wealthy like Port Royal, but very well to-do folks. Its still pretty chilly, and Toxaway is the next town, I am guessing, I keep seeing signs, so many miles to Toxaway. It could be a lake or something, I just don't know.

I have to find a place to build a fire and cook this back-strap I acquired this morning. Our camp last night was in a spot near the road and I was worrying about getting out of there before daylight. Everywhere I looked I seen stands for the local hunters, and I don't think its hunting season, they might have a spring Gobbler season here too. About 4:00am me and Skil's were awakened by the screeching of brakes, oh hell! Now what? We were real quiet and soon I heard a car take off. So, it must not have been us, that caused the ruckus. Just before day-light i went for my usual Skillet walk and down by the road lay a spike, freshly killed, explains the brakes! Still warm. I drug him off the road and cut the back-strap out of him. It was getting pretty light, so I didn't get both. But, I would like to see the face of the first person who comes this way to remove this deer. Probably wonder what kind of bear carries a knife. I have 5lbs. of meat and I need to cook it somewhere, soon. No idea how far the next store is. I am in the boon-docks, for real.

10:45am- Me and Skil's are just entering Sapphire, NC. and doesn't appear to be much of anything. I am beat, this is one hard-core road for hiking on. All of it goes uphill, there is no shoulder, and it curves all over the place. Damn good place to get mowed over, by one of these moon-shiners. Toxaway turned out to be an entrance for a fishing camp on Lake Toxaway. My poor old feet hurt really bad and I can just imagine how the little boy must feel. I am going in the woods here and cook this meat, no salt, or any kind of spices, but solid protein.

2:00pm- We just spent an hour and thirty minutes climbing some of the most grueling terrain we have encountered so far. That was wicked 4 or 5 miles. From Lake Sapphire up to Holly Forrest, with hair-pin turns on a 15 degree slope. That beach in Ca. where me and Skil's pitched our tent for a month is sure sounding good now. Its at least a half a year away, I ready to be there right now. I ate some venison, which wasn't bad, if I say so myself, or maybe I am just starving. Gotta eat better. I'll be looking for a campsite early today. I am wondering, if I crossed the Divide , shouldn't I be headed down hill?

Strange place, these Smoky Mountains, when I do get a chance to go down hill, I walk from perfectly clear weather into a fog. No damn wonder nobody can find Bigfoot. I expect him at every turn, I need some directions out of here.

The Great Smokies in All Their Glory

March 24, 2002- Sunday- Day 149

10:00am- A beautiful day at 58 degrees and I feel like a ton of weight has been lifted off my shoulders. We are in Brevard NC. and I found a laundry- mat and I can't wait to put on some clean clothes. I have been through some pretty country the past few months and I think the best is yet to come. We are headed into "The Smoky Mountains" and I am expecting some really fine scenery. I have come up with a new plan, but its only a detour for a few days. Good thing about making plans, without having them notarized, is the fact you can always change them. Now, I can't be sued for changing directions, I am losing it! We are going to get off of US64 in Murphy and go down to Blue Ridge Ga. and see if I can find Hanky. After I see him or not I'll head back up to US64 and head on out to Jamala Beach Ca. I don't know why US64 isn't as famous as its counterpart, US66. Sixty-Six just goes from L.A. to Chicago and 64 goes from L.A. to Kitty Hawk NC. Thats twice as far as 66 and a more scenic trip. Hollywood, I guess!

2:00pm- Me and Skil's are sitting in Rosman now , thanks to a preacher that picked us up. He gave me $3.00 too. I have got to the point that I don't turn down money, no matter how much I have in my wallet. Which is a pretty good sum at the moment. If people offer, I won't hurt their feelings and say no. Shame on me! We are now on a stretch of road I have never traveled, so I guess that makes me a real pioneer now. Its the only part I have never been on. I drove my RV from Santa Barbara Ca. to Fayetteville Temm. down 64 and turned south to Huntsville Alabama. So, I suppose I am in for a treat. Now, I have to get us out of this town and find a campsite for the night. I am all tuckered out from doing my laundry, I had to rassle my jeans down and beat them with a stick.Good Lord! what a life!

Go West Young Man!

March 23, 2002- Saturday- Day 148

8:45- Well, I am off on another trek around the world. I haven't been keeping my journal up to date and now I have to rely on my memory. Working and getting back at dark, just didn't feel like writing. So, let see if I can get caught up. I got some shopping carts to put in the creek for a bridge, and it worked out fine until I got a flash-flood. Something I have only heard about, wicked!, the only word I have for it.

I worked mostly at the "Canton Colonial Opera House" most of the time, but Danny got a another job in Waynesville. This job was an unusual job to say the least. We had to stucco a tube for an air-tunnel, that blows people a 100 feet up into the air and holds them there. Go figure! We were offered a free ride because we worked so hard on it. In other words, what they needed was some guinea-pigs, I was all for it. But, it was not to be, I am back on the road. Too Bad!

I saw my first ghost one night when I was out in the foggy morning about 3:00am. I would like to say I didn't see it, but I seen something. A confederate soldier riding a horse up the hill, and I took special notice of the saber flapping up and down on his side. I would have thought that I must be drunk, but whatever it was Skil's seen it too. As far as I know Skillet has never lied to me. No telling, exactly what we seen and I don't even won't to think about it. Just another part of this adventure. I hope he made it back home safely. (Ha Ha)

I accumulated a lot of stuff during my stay here, I bought a couple hundred dollars worth of stuff that I am leaving behind. I hope the fellow that caught me on his property finds it before it gets wet and ruined. I'll just call it rent. One day the cops came and checked me out, because the manager of Wal-Mart thought I was staying on the store property. I wasn't causing a problem and I stayed out of everybody's way. I guess the manager alerted the folks that owned the property and they strolled over last night. The guy told me that I better be gone or he was coming back with his gun. Oh Lord! I was yes sir and no siring him to death, then the ass-hole said he was going to shoot my dog too. I just told him the dog was innocent and it would be fine if he shot me, but the dog was brought on to his property without any choice. He didn't care much for my humor, so I made it clear that if you even think about hurting my dog. I think he could see the danger he was facing in my eyes, his tune changed right then and there. He just said be gone in the morning or he would come back with the law. Fair enough, seeing how its almost dark. But I was wondering why he gave up on the idea of coming back with his gun? Unfriendly sorts around here. I have to say the cop that checked me out was understanding, I told him I was working steady and I am not a thief, pan-handler or any low-life types that you normally see.

I loaded up my brand new external frame pack and headed off down the road. I didn't even call Danny to let him know I was leaving. But the last job was finished and the next job was in Asheville and I had no idea how to get to it. I have had it with this country anyway, Pretty country, but they can have my part of it. Maybe its just that being tied to one spot doesn't satisfy me anymore. I left in September and have been moving from adventure to adventure. I am really starting to enjoy this and the 4 weeks I was anchored here, made me think of jail. Like I was hand-cuffed. I figure US64 goes all the way to the other ocean, so, I am on it and headed west. I don't want to get caught in those big mountains in the winter , though! Oh Man!, that would be the "Cat's Meow"

I left about 6:00am this morning and I found some woods that are used by the homeless brand, I guess when its not so cold. I wish I would have found this place first. Well, toobad, I'm going on down the road.

Deliverance !

March 2, 2002- Saturday- Day 127

2:30pm- I was suppose to work this morning and I went down to call Danny at 5:30am and then again at 6:30am. No answer, so, I guess we aren't going today. Suits me just fine. While I was at the phone I kept hearing a dog bark, and I kept thinking he was in a truck parked across the street. I thought to myself that sure sounds like Skillet barking. But I couldn't imagine anyone putting him in their truck without a all brawl. When I decided it was to cold for Danny to get out of bed, I heade back to the tent. What a scare I got when I saw it was Skil's standing on the side of US64, oh my God! If I had got in the truck with Danny , Skil's probably would have followed us until he got lost and a good chance I would never have found him. He followed me a half-a-mile to this phone without me knowing it. That won't happen again! It has rained solid all day and looks like it ain't going to let up any time soon. I am camped now across a little creek and I placed some stones in the water to help me cross. A lot of good that did the water is raging through here and it is deep now. I am about to confess that N.C. has the most miserable weather on earth. There is no real dirt, it is a red clay that when wet, makes an awful mess. A person cannot walk on it, its kind of like red-snot, slipping and sliding, feet seem to just fly out from under you. Everything gets mud-red, really nasty stuff, but the locals say, yeah! but you can grow anything in it. Another gripe! Doesn't anyone make a tent that doesn't leak? I have to figure out how I'm going to cross this raging river, man, it is scary, I do not want to fall in there. I'll go out by myself and see if I can get across, then I'll look for something to help me get back and forth. This is something only seen on TV. What the hell am I doing here? Instead of going north, I should have got me a sailboat and went back down in the Islands, Warm there. I feel like someone may come out of these woods and tell me there gonna make me squeal like a pig. Oh, Jesus!

Brass Balls

March 1, 2002- Friday- Day 126

I made it back to work today and riding on the back of the truck is a tough way to get to work. All the guys on the job. make noises when we arrive that sound like brass balls banging together. They consider me somewhat insane, I guess. Then again! It makes me look forward to the ride home when its a warm 25F. So much easier to deal with. (Ha Ha) I got back here and found a place farther back in the woods to put my tent, so it wasn't so out in the open. Once again the blasted weatherman says its gonna rain some more. Ain't life just wonderful?

Sleet?

February 28, 2002-Thursday- Day 125

Super cold and had some sleet, whatever that is. I got hold of Danny and he said he would pick me up at the gas station in the morning. He said he gave all those flags and stuff I found to the Historical Society in Canton. I guess it does belong in a place like that, I couldn't keep the stuff safe, being out on the road like this.This weather is getting a bit to much and I don't see any end to it.I have just laid around in my tent today and haven't traveled anywhere except to take Skil's for a walk.

Colder Than Nome, Alaska!

February 27, 2002- Wednesday- Day 124

***note***Summary of the last 24 days. I was working and keeping my journal up-to-date was the last thing on my mind.

3:00pm- Quick summary of the last 3 weeks- We stayed in Landrum over 2 weeks, until the cops came by one day and said I would have to relocate.

I started working right away and Danny had a Famous Opera House in Canton, NC that he was remodeling. That resulted in a 80 mile trip everyday with me riding on the back of the truck. Danny's 2 kids slept all the way to Canton and just wasn't comfortable, 4 in the front of a Toyota pick-up. I thought I knew what being cold felt like, but I have learned a brand new way to freeze. Seventy miles an hour on the back of a pick-up in sub-freezing temperatures.

The job as it turned out was a real plastering job, that nobody in NC knew anything about. Ha!, boy I thought that was funny. Enter Jimmy! These guys were totally lost, and I didn't offer to explain anything. I kept noticing them watching me from off to the side. It was a really interesting job, though, I tore out some walls and found 48 star flags hidden in the walls, notes and records, a lot of artifacts that were part of some history of Canton. I am guessing that they were some part of a time-capsule to opened some day. Lot of mold-work that had to be done. Really interesting, but the ride always took something out of the joy of going to work.

After the cops told me I had to move on, I called Danny and he came up and we loaded all my stuff in the truck and we went up to Saluda, NC. I got a motel room there and I knew I wouldn't stay long because I didn't like leaving Skil's locked in a room all day. I ended up staying for a week and one morning I carried all my stuff to a deserted house across the street and stashed it in the woods. Me and Skil's then parted company with Saluda.

***End Note***

We headed down US 176 towards Hendersonville, I didn't make it all the way, we found a ghost town and spent the night with the spooks and goblins. In the morning I found one of the guys that I work with and told him I was taking the day off to relocate and I would call Danny tonight. We walked up to US64 in Hendersonville to a Wal-Mart and I bought a new tent and a sleeping bag. We set up in front of Wal-Mart in a patch of woods down in a ditch.

The temperature is in the teens and they say the wind-chill is 15-below. If anyone ever asks if 15 below is cold, I'll know how to answer. It is life threatening for sure! If this wind would stop it would sure be easier to cope with. This is the coldest yet. It seems I keep saying that. I heard on the radio it is colder than Nome, Alaska today. Oh Boy! I'll call Danny tomorrow and if he don't like what I did, I'll just pack up and head on off down the road. Maybe I can locate a more gentler climate, or, maybe not! I don't Know anything anymore. I just took Skil's for a walk around the parking lot, looking over the lay-of-the-land. The record for Hendersonville is 13F and the weather dude is saying it will be broken tonight. Holy Shit!

Feed That Dog!

February 3, 2002- Sunday- Day "100"

6:00pm- Hey!, One hundred days hiking around the southeast states. I left home almost 5 months ago and this is as far as I am? Those 2 false starts back in Naples killed me. Well, next time!

Its been a light rain and its getting really cold. I can understand what those old pioneers went through now. I'll have to try crossing the Great Divide in the winter, then I can get the full effect. I don't even want to think about doing something idiotic like that. I have never considered myself completely stupid, even with some of my past actions. I remember a long time ago, that I thought I was done for in the Rockies and that was in July. So, I really have no desire to be there in the winter. I'm just bored and rambling again. I need to go for a walk.

8:00pm- Just got back from an interesting walk down to the middle of Landrum. I was stopped by that fellow that gave me the $20.00 the day I got here and he handed me another $8.00 and said make sure I feed that dog. Geez!

I passed a bank and the temperature is at 28F, Damn!, can that be right? Have I been out in the cold so long I can't tell if its cold or not? I need to get out of this camping mode for a while. My blood is getting to thick, it doesn't seem that cold to me. Maybe I can find something for me and Skil's after I get my first check

Happy Birthday Tootie!

February 2, 2002- Saturday- Day 99
7:30pm- I have just hung out around the tent today, I wanted to go to yard-sales, but I am sick as dog. I hope Skil's didn't hear that. It's suppose to go into the 20's tonight, I'm starting to believe that is normal for this part of the world.Well, bring it on, I've weathered worse. Looking for snow again, by Wednesday. I have figured out that it only snows when the temperature goes up to 30F or so. It doesn't ever seem to snow when its in the teens, which has been a lot lately. I have retired my pull-along luggage, I'm guessing they are good for about 1500 - 2000 miles. I ought to do a commercial for them. No maitenence for 2000 miles, guaranteed! My camp is on a mountain (small hill actually) overlooking a small lake.I can only fathom the money folks would pay to camp in a spot like this. I have just spent the last 4 days the same age as my older sister, now it will be a whole nother year before we are the same age again. I have always found that amusing. Oh Lord, here I am rambling, I better walk over to the Bi-Lo and get Skillet food. Try to get some blood flowing.

Having Ups and Downs!

February 1, 2002- Friday- Day 98
2:00pm- I went to Ashville with Danny today and put in 3 hours working at a YWCA. It was a start, lets hope that his promises hold up. He says he has a big job coming up in Canton. That's about 80 miles from here in the mountains. Its probably still snowing there. It better be an inside job, I can't picture doing any kind of stucco in this weather, the water in the mud would freeze. It looks like he's got me, he gave me a big cut in pay and said if it gets any better, he'll pay me what he use to. Offered me $11.00 cash, no taxes, lord, I haven't worked for that kind of money since the 70's. I guess a body down on his luck, doesn't have much choice. I agreed and figured I would work my way back up. I'm sorta down in the dumps, but relieved on the other hand. Hell, who needs money, I got a dog! We'll see how it goes. The first sign of a slow down and I'm on the road again. Not much incentive to stay longer than the job lasts, under my current situation.

Life is Good, Sometimes!

January 31, 2002- Thursday- Day 97
11:00am- I must have a Guardian Angel watching over me. Every time it appears I am going to have to struggle a might, something pops up. I don't know , just seems like the Gods of Winter are smiling down on me. I have a job starting tomorrow with Danny, probably not full time yet, but its a start. Danny said he would try to find me a place to live. People hunt me down to give me money, what else could I possibly want or need. Now, I can start making plans for the future. Got a lot of "Ifs". I do have to outlive Skillet, I can't leave him alone to fend for himself. I am hoping that problem is way down the road. Think I'll go exploring, now!

Settling In For the Long Haul !

January 30, 2002-Wednesday- Day 96
2:00am- I just got back from the TA Truck Stop and I got a hot shower. Ken showed up and said his friend down at the tire plant, didn't think it was a good idea for me to take a shower there. That was fine with me. So, he took me to the truck stop and, I can't believe this, he got on his CB and asked the truckers if any had a shower pass that they weren't going to use. I am thinking how does a person acquire the nerve to ask for something from total strangers? Man, there ain't no way I could ask anybody for anything, and it just flows out of most people, weird!
After I get back to work, if I get back to work, I'll make sure I keep in touch. I am going to have to move on out of here today, but I am going to call Danny first and see if I go north or south.
1:30pm- I spoke with Danny and he said to make my way back to Campobella, he has something that will be ready in 3 or 4 days. Alright! I packed up and was leaving and I walked past Rufus' house and he was in the yard. I wanted to say thanks and I'd keep in touch, but now I have to move up to Campobella area. Well now, ole' Rufus wasn't having none of that walking stuff, when he's got a perfectly good truck sitting in the yard. We loaded up and headed north, he took us to Campobella and we said our good-byes and parted company. I looked around and didn't see the right place to set up camp. So, we walked north to the next town, which is Landrum SC. I found a place right near I-26 and away from the population, almost an ideal place. I have to cross a wide open area to get to my tent. As I was walking through town, some guy in a big old Caddilac pulled up and gave me 20.00 and said make sire I feed that dog. I told him the truth, that my dog eats first, if I have only one meal, he gets it. Pretty warm today with a 15 MPH wind. We are in a grove of Cedar's and smells good. Now, I am going to take a walk and find a phone and tell Danny where I'm at.

Happy Birthday to Me!

January 29, 2002- Tuesday- Day 95
8:30am- When I woke up this morning I am feeling really great. Damn!, this is the life I was cut out for I guess. I haven't been saddled with this much peace since I lived in the keys. Some days I have bad days, but they all work themselves out for the better.
Ken never came back to take me to take a shower and I was relieved some, I just ain't that type that can do something like that easily. Plus, the fact I don't want to leave Skil's alone. While I am out getting cleaned up. I walked over to the dumpster a little while ago and got a couple gallons of orange juice and some cheddar cheese. Mighty fine breakfast, I am living better than those Hobo's of the Great Depression, Ha Ha! It was 40F last night and calling for 54F tomorrow. Winter must be over!

Easy To Find!

January 28, 2002- Monday- Day 94

5:00pm- Some fellow from across the street drove up to where I was camped, I don't know how he knew I was there, but he found me. His name was Rufus (I think that is a solid country name) He said he came over to see if I needed anything. (What?) Well, what was I going to say? Hell, I need everything, but I didn't say that. All I can figure is that he noticed me wandering around in the woods.

I did take a really refreshing nap today and feel at the top-of-my-game now. We will probably move on tomorrow, I shouldn't be found this easy.

7:30pm- Now, a guy named Ken rode up on a dirt-bike to see if I needed anything (not again) I told him that I was alright, but he came back in a while and brought me and Skil's some food. Then Rufus pulled up and brought me a couple of blankets and a beer. Then Ken said he would come back later and take me over to where he works to take a shower at the fitness center where he works. Michelain Tire Co. the main place for tires, I guess. I am beginning to believe that I must be on some kind of drugs or something. This kind of stuff doesn't happen where I come from.

I told Ken I had a CB radio that I found along the road and if he wanted it, he could surely have it. He said sure, and then he called a trucker going down the highway, he was happy enough to give me $15.00 for it. (*note* I found this radio laying along the road in NC, just before the snow) All I can say about today's events is "WOW"

Return to Ashville Highway

January 27, 2002- Saturday- Day 93

11:30am- We broke camp and have no idea where we are headed, we are just going. I have noticed if I stay in one place, nothing positive ever happens. Right now we are taking a break in N. Spartanburg Park on Old Furnace Road. (I still think these street names were made out of boredom) I have no idea if I am headed N,S.E or West. Totally Bumfuddled as to where I am at. I know one thing, I have to find baby food, somewhere. Thats a priority for today.

11:00pm- It is late and I am sitting in a field behind a Winn-Dixie on Ashville Hwy. We walked almost to Inman, before I figured out where I was. But, it seems my luck is a lot better when I'm moving, sorta get stagnant when I stop in one place too long. Two different people stopped to give me money today, $5.00 each and a pack of smokes, unreal!

We are in a really terrible place for a camp, I'll look around tomorrow for a different spot tomorrow. Winn-Dixie dumpsters are good for getting Skillet food. I am gonna get Skil's fed up and rested and then head for Woodruff, about 20 miles south of here. I know some of the locals down there and maybe I can pick up some work. I have to write some letters soon and let the folks I met along the road, and let them know I made it. They probably won't believe I made it and then took a side trip down to the ocean and back! Don in Fargo, Ken & Ann in Shallotte, and maybe Eric in Jacksonville, I told them I would keep in touch. I'm tired.

Boiling Springs Peaches and Yams

January 25, 2002- Friday- Day 91

12:30pm- Me and Skil's walked down to the mission today and I asked the warden about food. I was told that For food I would have to go by the church. I went over there, but I couldn't bring myself to go in. I have always had this fear that the building would cave in on me. This is the worst week I have had this whole trip. I did find 3 pair of jeans someone discarded in a dumpster and I got Skil's a pizza early this morning. Goint to have to get out of this place before we starve to death.

Someone is walking around the restaurant, right now and I better see who it is, before they discover me. Turned out to be a couple scrapping metal. I told them I was camped over in the woods and I had a dog that don't much like people. Didn't take them long to leave. Tomorrow I am going to explore to the south and if I don't find a better place I'll make plans to move on.

January 26. 2002- Saturday- Day 92

Me and Skil's went for a long walk down route 9 and found an off-road bike trail that we went down thinking it would get me back to my starting point. I ran into a guy living in his car and he had a monster of a dog with him, so I didn't bother walking near him. We spent a few hours walking around in these woods trying to get back to the tent. But, the road was washed out fom the rain and I wasn't about to try and cross that raging water. We finally worked our way back to camp and I searched the burnt out building and uncovered some gallon cans of peaches and yams. All these cans have no labels and have to be opened to find out what rewards you're gonna find. Nothing that Skil's would eat, so I have to go and work something up. If I didn't get embarrassed so damn easy, I would just go dig something out of a dumpster behind one of these restaurants. I have made up my mind now, I don't know where we are going, But we are getting the hell out of here. Tomorrow!

Hardcore Rain All Day

January 23, 2002- Wednesday- Day 89

5:00pm- We set up im the woods beside the resturant and I explored it and discovered all the food is still in there. Most of its spoiled and not fit for human or dog consumption. I cooked some cube steaks for Skil's and I found a 5lb. block of cheese. It rained all day and tomorrow its suppose to be in the 70's. I am definitely not use to 70 degree weather. I didn't bring any summer clothes!

If it quits raining me and the animal are going to go explore some.

January 24, 2002-Thursday- Day 90

Stormed all day and haven't left the tent.Just laid around and read, I found a stack of Readers Digest. I cut out one little piece and placed it in my journal-

Why Dogs Are Better Than Kids

• It doesn't take 45 minutes to get a dog ready to go outside in the winter
• Dogs cannot lie
• Dogs never resist nap-time
• You don't have to get an extra phone line for a dog
• Dogs don't pester you about getting a kid
• Dogs don't care if the peas have been touched by the mashed potatoes
• Average cost of sending a dog to school: $42.00 Average cost of sending your kid: $103,000
• Dogs are house broken by the time they are 12 weeks old
• Your dog is not embarrassed if you sing in public
• If your dog is a bad seed, your genes cannot be blamed

Mission Impossible

January 22, 2002- Tuesday- Day 88

11:00am- I am behind Ingles ( Grocery store chain) in Boiling Springs and I see no hope for this place, moving on! I am gonna leave my stuff here and go for a walk and look around.

Yesterday while checking out a dumpster behind the Dollar Store I noticed some people watching me, from across the street. I worked my way around the block and passed in front of their house and turns out it was a mission for the needy. I asked one of the people coming out if they gave out food? I was told no, but if you need a couch to carry around with you, this is the place. Just fill out a form and get some clothes and furniture. I just explained that I want to feed my dog, I am comfortable sitting on a stump. They said come back later and talk to the head person and maybe they could get me into a HUD program or something. I don't believe that I will be back.

Wandering around I found a restaraunt that had recently burned down, like in the last 2 or 3 days. It was located by I-85 and had woods abutting the property line. Looked like a good place to kill a couple days while I'm waiting for some good news. Maybe, I'll run back down to the mission and have a couch delivered! I have to walk back to Ingles and get my pull-along and back-pack then come back and set up house. I'll explore this burnt out building about dark. Might be something inside that didn't get burned up to bad.

Whooo! Whooo!

January 21, 2002- Monday- Day 87

11:00am- I am in Boiling Springs and really not in a very good spot. To hard to get food here and really nothing around here. There is a Wal-Mart across the street and a bunch of little stores spread out down the road, but not much else. It rained all night and I had an owl park himself over my tent and scream at us all night. It seems that I heard somewhere in Indian Lore that ain't a good sign, who knows, I'm glad I ain't superstitious. I can feed Skil's today, and tomorrow I'll get up at 5:30am and go out and see if I can fetch him something else. If not I'll pack up and head out. I left clothes in Woodruff last summer, I'll head down that way and get a new change of wardrobe. I have to hang around here for a week and find out what is up with Danny.

Over the Rainbow!

January 20, 2002- Sunday- Day 86

10:15am- We are packing up to move on down towards Boiling Springs. It is a very pretty day out after all the rain I've had the last 2 days. I don't ever recall seeing the sun so bright as here in SC. Skil's ate a humdinger of a meal this morning, maybe he won't be a problem on the walk. I hope to get cleaned up today, I haven't washed my hair since 12/22, that's bad!

12:30pm- We are taking a break on the old 'Rainbow Road' bridge. It sure is a nice place to rest on such a nice day. Been thinking about Laura all day, even dreamed about her last night. I must be losing my mind from being alone so much , these last couple months. I don't have any bad thoughts at all about anything, I have been at ease for while and nothing seems to bother me anymore. Far Out!

We walked by 2 cop cars sitting along the side of the road, I'm figuring its a speed trap and I hope one of these hillbillies don't come flying around that curve to fast on his mule. WHOA! Mule.

Definately Not Wise Men

January 19, 2002-Saturday- Day 85

2:00pm- We spent our first night on the banks of the Pacolet River and it was nice not drowning when the rain started at mid-night. Just about dark last night, I noticed some people back in the woods and headed my way. They said that "they lived up yonders away" They mentioned that I should be careful camping here, because I am a city boy. I wanted to tell them the dangers of the city compared to the laid back ways of ya'll tobacco chewing country bumpkins, but I have learned to hold my tongue. I just told them, so far, no problems, and that i would be leaving Monday. After they left and a hour later a truck pulled up under the bridge. I'm thinking, well here goes! But, it was the same people and they came out of the East bearing gifts. Brought me a really nice rain gear set and food for me and the"King" So I am figuring that the only problems I'll have is carrying all the stuff I accumulate. What a great bunch of people I have been running into on this adventure. Now, me and my little dog are sitting on the banks of the river, belly's full, and watching the rapids. I wonder if there are any trout in this crik. ( hope I pronounced that right) Danny said to call and, he was going to see if his brother-in-law could find something for me until Danny got something going. Good ole' Danny sure doesn't want a plasterer like me to slip out of his grasp. If I wasn't so modest I would say they threw away the mold on my ability at my trade.

The Banks of the Pacolet

January 18, 2002- Friday- Day 84

12:00noon- I followed that last rides instructions and he was on the money. We walked most of the day and finally called it a day in a township named Cliffside. That was a good name for it too. Me and Skil's had to climb down a cliff to find a place for the tent. I guess this is what the folks in these parts call a hollar'. Wasn't to cold last night, I would think in the 40's. It is hard to walk in this country due to no shoulder along the road. I kinda just use the road itself and hope I hear a car before I get flattend. I am close now and if Danny hasn't got anything going, the plan is to head to Pensacola. See my sisters, probably for the last time, and head it west, (Go West young man!) There is a whole lot of places I want to see and if walking is my mode of transportation, it'll probably take more than a few weeks.

We are in SC now on US11 which is the road that goes to Danny's. We are at a Berry Farm, not sure what kind of berries, but its a hot tourist spot. They don't have food here, except for vegetables and fruit. I'm glad I bought Skillet 2 cans of food this morning in Cliffside. No phone here either, so we'll walk some more.

4:00pm- I just talked to Danny, and he doesn't have anything yet. No Good! I don't have a plan for the next couple days, but Danny ask me to wait. He has some bids out and something will come through. He also said he would bring me some dog-food.

I am camped on the Pacolet River under the bridge, really nice place, tourist pay thousands of dollars to camp in places like this. After Danny gets here I'll head on back down there and make myself at home. I am sitting here beside Zippity's Store and 2 little girls are across the street flirting with me. I can't look to bad, if I don't scare little children, another good sign! I feel funny sitting here out in the open. Its 7 miles down to Boiling Springs and I'll probably head down there after the week-end. I am familiar with that area, some.

King's Mountain

January 17, 2002- Thursday- Day 83

1:30pm- I am on the other side of Shelby, NC. at an old abandoned house. We completely missed our turn it seems, My little dog is looking at me like "You got us lost, again!" I'll just keep heading west and go on into Asheville, unless I can figure out where I'm at.

In Kings Mountain I passed a house with a fruit stand along the road, and some old-timer called us over. He said he seen me a few days ago on down the road and I don't walk very fast. I told him the same ole' tale that I had perfected and I wasn't in a race to get anywhere. We talked a while and he said wait here while he went inside. In a few minutes he came out with a bag of grocery's, that was pretty cool, of him.

After we left and he wished us the best, we got picked up down the road about 1/4 mile from the fruit-stand. And the kid carried us down to Shelby, and he tried to explain how I could cut over to South Carolina. Skil's agreed that we should give it a try. I'm told , also its suppose to rain tonight, oh boy! The weather has been just about right today, in the high 40's, thats good for walking, just don't stop too long.

January 16, 2002- Wednesday- Day 82

7:00am-

***Wet pages and hard to read!***

We are still behind Food lion in King's mountain. Its already warmed up to 34F, have to put on my beach clothes. Got razors last night and feel much better, maybe the radio DJ's won't dis me on the radio now.

9:45am- We are at the intersection at I-85 & US74.**can't read this section**

Skil's almost got run over and the Mexican never even hit his brakes. It was very close.

*** all this must be XXX rated because I can't read it***

Welcome to Gastonia!

January 15, 2002- Tuesday- Day 81

11:00am- We are packing up now and fixing to head out, I waited until now because this mornings work traffic was really heavy. We're going to have to go slow until I get some room to walk. I have a lot of food for Skil's, so that won't be a problem. I washed all the fire smoke off of my face this morning, man, I was getting black from our campfires. The things you'll do to keep warm. I wish I had a razor. I felt like my confidence was fading the last few days, but I am starting to get that positive force back now. Just have to stay focused.

12:45pm- We are in Gastonia already, it was closer than I thought. I have a little more room to pull my trailer now, without getting splattered all over the highway. Its a really nice day

***NOTE*** These next pages in my journal are unreadable, so I'll have to rely on memory***

We are passing through Gastonia and I remember not many places to take a break. We found a copse of trees and went in for a break. No one could see us from the road, and I heard someone coming around the back way. We are tired and I ain't going to hide. So, we wait. A girl comes into the clear and says she was trying to find me, so she could give me some money. We talked and she said good luck and would she like for me to walk her back to her car. She said she was okay, her father was the sheriff. Oh Geez, again!

We made it to Bessemer City and located the old faithful campground behind Food Lion.

Cramerton Departure Tomorrow!

January 14, 2002- Monday- Day 80

1:30pm- We just got back to the camp from a little trek to the next town, Lowell. This morning I fed Skil's a whole deli-chicken. I think the shortage of food had a lot to do with his acting poorly, since Friday. I just hope he's not getting sick, I can't handle seeing him feel bad. When we leane here its going to be a tough haul down to Gastonia, there is no sidewalks or a shoulder to walk on. We'll just have to be careful, we came this far, and getting run over aren't in our plans. I feel really dirty and I need to find a place to get cleaned up. We are leaving in the morning, this afternoon when they close the deli, I am gonna stock up on Skillet food for the trip. I had to compete with a couple guys last night, when they brought out the deli stuff that didn't sell, there was two guys waiting in a car. I just walked up and said, Hey let me have one of those chickens for my dog. They gave me one, but tonight I'll be there first, and they can ask me for something. I wish I would have kept that blanket I found yesterday walking here. It was laying on the side of the road, probably blew off the back of a truck. But it was frozen stiff, stuck straight out, and I didn't want to wait for it to thaw out.

I Heard of You!

January 13, 2002- Sunday- Day 79

11:30am- It was cold last night, like North Pole cold. Brrrr! Its been somewhat of a good morning, so far. I got Skil's a little bit of food this morning in a dumpster in Belmont. I guess they had a busted bag of dog food and swept it up and trashed it. Probably could have found the rest, but I haven't steeled myself up to getting in Dumpsters yet. If it laying right on top, then I don't need it. There were also a bunch of potato chips, and other snack things like that. I surely think that stuff like that would stay good for ever. What do I Know?

We walked back out to the road and here comes the law, Shit! He gets out and comes over and says where you headed? I gave the same story that I have told everyone, always seems to get me some sympathy. He says, I heard about you, (What?) Then he says come on getin and I'll take you to the county line. Couldn't figure if he wanted me out of town or he was trying to help. I've been confused a lot lately as to the law's interference in my travels. I actually think the last two wanted to help. The FBI guy did, for sure. But now I'm born again, whatever that is.

Last night I was laying in my tent wondering if it can get any colder and I was listening to the local talk show. They were discussing the homeless situation in and around Charlotte. Nothing new here, I've heard all this before. Then he says, "Today I seen one that had a pull-along luggage and a dog. He wasn't bothering or pan-handling, just walking past. He was probably the sort, that works his gig at night" Man when I heard that I wish I had a cell-phone, I'd call and cuss his ass out!But Damn! I am getting popular in North Carolina. Oughta' think about running for some office. In Gabriel now, I think Cramerton is next, probably find a spot to set up the tent there.

9:30pm- We are in Cramerton behind a Food Lion, I'm starting to feel at home when I see a Food Lion. I am about 3 miles to Gastonia, where I should be looking for a turn to the south. My ankle is in bad shape today. Seems I always hurt my ankle in NC, it was in Greenville NC. that I crushed it into a 1000 pieces. Damn, that was 10 years ago, time sure flies when you ain't paying attention! The folks at Food Lion just threw a load in the dumpster. Well, off to work, maybe that radio guy was right about me liking night work. Ha Ha! Dammit! I like this kinda shit! I want to walk to Alaska and eat some moose!!!

City of Queens!

January 12, 2002- Saturday- Day 78

6:30pm- Me and Skil's is beat to a frazzle, we finally made it across Charlotte and what a long trip with no where to take breaks. We came straight through. As we went through the downtown section amongst the sky-scrapers, at every little patch of trees had a camp in it. Passwed a few bridges and they had cities under them. We encountered some really grundgy looking homeless folks. I sure hope I never look that bad. As far as eating we didn't even slow down long enough, but I did have a can of Spam, I gave to Skil's.

After we got passed all the big buildings, we had to stroll through the red=light district. Iwas propositioned a lot, so I must not look too bad. I could have negotiated a good deal with all tyhe competition in that 2 miles. Probably could have got a deal that would include the dog, if I had been interested. Get me out of here! Leaving the city of "Queens City" (what they call it up here) is all I have on my mind.

It was a long way across this place and I am going to throw my map from the newspaper away. No way, is it even close to the distance I walked today. We are about 2 miles passed civilization and down in a hill in the woods and going to get some much needed rest. We are still waiting for that cooler weather, can't wait until its back in the 20's again. Oh Geez!

A Call For Saturday!

January 11, 2002- Friday- Day 77

2:30pm- We didn't leave today, I have decided to wait for the week-end and hope there is less traffic. Temperature is suppose to start dropping again, that's good news. I can't take much more of this 40's and 50's, just to hot!

Me and Skil's went out exploring again today. We discovered a nice hiking trail, called "The Mallard Creek Trail" I would like to explore it, but maybe some other time. I have noticed that when I am on the move "Good Things happen to us" but while I have been here, nobody loves me anymore. Maybe I need some Depression therapy! Tomorrow we will be moving!

Makin' Plans

January 10, 2002- Thursday- Day 76

11:00am- I am still in the same place, just can't get the courage to cross this town. Maybe if I leave at around 6:00pm and walk it in the dark, I'll be alright. We explored some more today and walked back down to Winn-Dixie to look in the woods. Man!, there were a lot of camps in here. Must have been a whole city of homeless people, and not long ago, either. I am starting to use my brain a little now, they were all rounded up because of the weather we had last week, that makes sense. That is a procedure they even use in Naples. Wimps! I survived it, I think these Tar-Heels would fare better than a greenhorn from the south.

4:00pm- I am just sitting around the camp, trying to plan a route. I keep coming back to the same one, get back to Campobella, see whats up with Danny. If nothings going on there I'll slip down back into Georgia, whip through Atlanta and into Alabama. We'll work our way down to the gulf and see my sisters. Then cross that desert one more time and see that other ocean again. Sounds easy enough! Plans made, now I have to get the Charlotte NC problem behind me.

8:30pm- Just scrambled a bunch of eggs, I forgot how good eggs tasted. I have to go back out and get something to smoke. Getting chilly!

Anchored in Charlotte

January 9, 2002- Wednesday- Day 75

11:00am- We are still in the same place, and thinking about moving on tomorrow. It's suppose to be in the 60's and that is more to my liking. Spring like weather for 2 days. I'm cooking a batch of chicken for Skil's for the road. He had a 20oz. Sirloin for breakfast, after that he looked up at me as if to say " Okay. you're a keeper" Its always nice to find out that your best buddy tolerates you, made my day!

this morning we took a walk around to get the lay-of-the-land. We still can't see the town, so we must be a good ways out yet. I'm trying to make plans, but they always seem to get snagged up, somehow! What I want to do is head on down to Pensacola and then westward on into Texas, then I'll make some more plans from there.

4:00pm- We have been here since Sunday and its time to go. There is a lot of food here though, but living and dying in Charlotte ain't whats in my plans, so we'll go soon. Its probably 6-8 miles to the other side of this place, so it won't be easy bopping through here.

Sick and Tired and Cold

January 8, 2002- Tuesday- Day 74
9:00am- We haven't broke camp yet and we probably won't today, I'll probably wait til it warms up some. Started this morning at 24F and now its all the way up to 31F. Got to break out the tank-top and find some shade. I have no course and no set time to be anywhere, so why worry. I really do like seeing what's around the next bend though.

4:00pm- Well, I wondered when or if I would ever get sick, I don't have to worry about that no more. I guess we'll wait here until about Thursday when its suppose to be normal temps. again. Like in the 50's. We have been eating good, but I have spent to much money. From my vantage point up on this hill I can tell when a delivery to the dumpster is taking place. This morning they brought out shrimp rings and a big ole' Sirloin steak. I am enjoying dumpster diving for food. As long as I can get to it before something is thrown on top of it. Soon as that happens it turns into garbage to me. But out=dated and placed on top is worth a check-out.The shrimp were still frozen and it took along time for them to thaw. Wonder why? When we do decide to leave we are going to have to walk right through the middle of downtown Charlotte. Not looking forward to that!

The Dog Catcher Comes Through

January 7, 2002- Monday- Day 73
9:00am- We camped on a water treatment plant property last night and kinda in the open. I had a nice view of the neighborhood and people are starting to dig their way out. I have walked most of the day in the Freezing rain, okay now I know what it is. It is just your normal rain that has a different characteristic than Florida rain. Seems when the raindrops hit you they immediately turn to ice, all the way to the bare skin. Whoopeeee! We walked and we are in the middle of nowhere, I have to walk in the road, but there is no traffic anyway. The snow plows that cleared this road piled the snow all along the shoulder. We have passed a few cars still in the ditch and a few places where they have been pulled out. I'm guessing that the locals weren't expecting this monster storm either.
Me and Skil's are damn sure freezing to death, I have to get us out of here to shelter. We found another bridge and got under it and I got the bright idea to build a fire. For an hour I tried to get that soaked wood to light, not having much luck. We are getting big clouds of billowing smoke though. All of a sudden someone up on the bridge says come out from under there! Oh Shit! I stepped out in the open and looked up and I'm staring right at a big ole' cop. I felt like Jerry Reed.
What are you doing under there?
Trying to get warm officer.
Come up here!
Yes Sir
Bring all your stuff with you!
Yes Sir
Is that your dog?
Yes Sir
Got ID?
Yes Sir
You can't build a fire under the bridge!
Yes Sir, I know, been trying for an hour.
I heard about you.
Oh Oh.
He went to his car I suppose to run my ID and me and Skil's was standing in the snow, me not feeling the cold right now, wondering whats the verdict here? The animal control truck pulled up and I am thinking if I run into the woods, would they chase me through the snow covered hill-and-dale. Or just shoot me, I can't lose my dog! Here comes the cop and he said he really didn't want me to die in his county, so he called a guy to take us to Charlotte. We loaded Skil's in the cage and I climbed in and off we went. The dog-catcher took us all the way to Charlotte and dropped us off at a Winn-Dixie. I asked if he had a extra leash fo Skil's and he said yeah, and gave me a very expensive leather leash. I lost Skil's in Siler City, another thing I learned about snow. Don't lay nothing on the ground before it snows or you'll never ever find it again.
We looked int he woods by the Winn-Dixie and there seemed to be a lot of abandoned camps, so I'm thinking all these empty camps , the law must make a pass through here on a regular basis. We walked a mile down the road and found a Food lion next to a hill with a lot of trees on it, looked like home for a day or two. I'm feeling like the flu is coming on and Skil's has been shaking all day.
It is going to be a long cold wet night and I am hoping that I don't get sick. It is 24F in Charlotte as of this moment and its going to warm up tomorrow to 31F. I have to get Skil's to a more gentler climate. Its still raining and its very cold and I have nothing dry at all. I'm just glad that we are not back out in those woods we just left trying to stay warm. Sitting int he door of my tent, I have a nice view of the parking lot down below us. I'll have to get down there and see if The tent can be seen from there. I have to find a place to wash clothes tomorrow. This place seems safe enough to hang out for a couple days.
GOOD NEWS- Weatherman says no rain tomorrow. I found a liquor store across the street and got a pint of vodka to warm me up or at least kill the pain.

Born Again? Did I Die?

January 6, 2002- Sunday- Day 72

12:00noon-The ice melted enough for me and Skil's to attempt an escape yesterday. We are about 10 miles out of Richland siiting under a bridge soaking wet. Something like 30 miles to Charlotte NC. We got picked up just at the limits of Siler City by a fellow named Patrick. He took us to his house and cooked us lunch. First time I went into someones house to eat. I went in once to work, but that is different. He fed us and gave us a ride to Ashboro, NC. After a short little 6 mile walk I noticed this truck about 3 times in different places. Uh oh, I ain't liking this much, having a weirdo shadowing me. Finally he pulled up and asked if I would ride with him, not if I wanted a ride, but will I please get in. Then he flipped out the badge, oh shit! He asked a lot of questions and told me he was FBI and a person walking down the road pulling a suitcase deserves some scrutiny after what happened in New York. He told me that his agency stays on full alert all over the country. After running my ID and finding out that I am not a terrorist, the conversation wasn't so tense. He gave us a ride to Richfield and stopped at a Food Lion. He said there is a motel over there and a grocery store here. He handed me some money and asked me to pray with him.( Oh Boy! another one) Standing in the parking lot in broad daylight praying to be a born again Christian. What the hell next? He told me now you are born again, what?(Hey thats cool as Shit!) I am ready to scream! But then I thought of the cash he handed me, I didn't count it but I seen a $10.00 bill. So, okay G-Man I'm born again, Praise the Lord and all that shit! I was undecided about that ride until I went into Food Lion to get Skil's some food. I pulled out the money he gave me and had to count it twice. $80.00!!!! Unreal , God's alive and well in N.C. I got dog food and walked to the edge of town to pitch my tent.

*note- Stanley County - "Reed Goldmine" - first goldmine in USA. I am learning a lot on this adventure.

12 Degree Highs

January 5, 2002- Saturday- Day 71-

10:00am- I sure need to pack up my little dog and leave these woods far behind. Loop Rd. is sounding real good to me. I don't exactly know how long this temperature will stay at the high side of 12F. But its something that I have experienced and the new has wore off already. Time to move on and try something else. But just wishing my way to better times and places doesn't get me there. As of right now I can't go until I can pull my trailer along. Damn sure, can't carry it. About to go out and plead for help. (not hardly) I'll die right here before I stoop to that. I only need help if something I can't fix happens to Skil's. The weatherman is calling for freezing rain tomorrow and I don't have any idea what the hell that is. I am positive about one thing though, he ain't talking about cold rain. Whatever it is , its really bad by the information they're giving out in their alerts. They even mention possible black ice! WTF!

The Big Chill!

January 4, 2002- Friday- Day 70

4:00pm- I can't ever remember being cold like I was last night. I was really surprised that I was alive this morning. I thought it strange when I got up and my blanket didn't fold, but stuck straight out like a stick. I didn't want to get up but nature was calling. For twenty minutes I tried to get the zipper on the tent to move, but it was frozen solid. I came real close to taking my pocket knife and cutting a hole to get out. I came to my senses and didn't, but I was right there on the verge. I have never seen anything like what I was experiencing now. All I could think about was getting out of there. Find someplace warm. Me and Skil's just took off and headed for the laundry place. I am hoping that their driers are running and the hot air is blowing outside. Anything for some relief of this. It's not just cold, it is very painful, I thought ice killed the pain. What world is this? We are crossing the parking lot and Skil's is having problems with his feet, I thought they were freezing and I am really getting worried now. I had to get mad at him to make him move and I don't get mad at my dog, never! We did finally make it across the parking lot and the door to laundramat was open. We went inside and were all alone. So, that is where we stayed. Wonder why nobody is washing clothes this morning? I am siiting here and its warm and I can see the bank across the street. I am thinking now that I must be snow blind or something, because I can only read one number on the temp. sign. Then I realized it is only 3F. Holy Shit! We were warm and we'll stay here until someone throws us out. Another glance at the bank and now its 7F, well Skil's its getting hot out there now. After another hour I'm seeing double didgits on the temp. board, okay we can go now and put on our summer clothes. Walking back to the camp, I noticed all that soft snow was now hard blocks of ice, really big blocks of ice. We took a route back by the dumpster and lo-and-behold a pound of coffe was on top of all the gallons of milk that was discarded. So, we went to the camp and I made breakfast and coffee and had a good ole' time. Now that it was a warm 14 degrees. About noon, here comes Byron again, and he has his quart of beer. He just had to hang out by my fire and talk the usual nonsense that I have noticed he does quite easily. Skil's found a spot in the sun where there is no snow and enjoying the day. Maybe I am having a nightmare and this morning never happened! But I have to think about moving on, just have to wait until I can build ski's for my pull-along. It sure won't roll in the snow. Seems to me that this place will get pretty nasty when this snow does melt.