[at-l] Datto is Northbound

[KarenS62@aol.com]

Despite some issues with flights and storage areas, Datto arrived in Atlanta 
Sunday morning. He was a bit frazzled when he finally arrived. In fact, 
despite the backpack he had just unpacked and shouldered, when we got to the 
car he got upset thinking we had forgotten to go to baggage claim. I pointed 
out the pack on his back and the duffle in my hands and he said "oh, I'm lost 
because I don't have any more lists to check off."   

So, off we went to Amicalola. As a stark contrast to the freezing, wet, windy 
weather the day before, it was in the 60's, sunny, crystal clear and you 
could see for miles. After a quick pack weigh-in (37 pounds with food and 
water), Datto waved goodbye and hit the approach trail.

I cheated and drove around and met him at the top a few hours later. By last 
night there were seven thruhikers, a father/daughter out for a couple weeks 
and myself - a nice crew with a great age range. The older gentleman was also 
from Indiana - what is it about the Hoosier water that breeds AT hikers?

After a great dinner (if I say so myself), a breathtaking sunset and a bit of 
stargazing, we all settled in for a good night's sleep. The sunrise this 
morning was apparently in competition with the sunset because they were both 
show-stoppers. About 9:30 this morning, after lots of pictures, we said our 
good-byes. Datto headed towards Maine and I headed back here for a hot shower 
and a "little work from home time", which you can see is being very 
productive.

I have his maildrops, etc. if any of you want to get in touch, email me 
privately.

POG
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