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Chuck is in north Florida now, still hiking with Old Drum. They're hiking along the beautiful Suwannee River, near Lake City. I've been able to join them for two weekend hikes, and plan to meet them again next weekend with an '07 AT thru-hiker, Little Bug Shoe who lives near us in central Florida. The guys are enjoying their hike. Everything is going great. "Gatorade Gordon" is still supporting them with his Hiker Support van. Rich decided to return home to take care of some things there. Chuck had a
shin splint problem but it's fine now. The Florida Trail has lots of road walking, and that's rough on the bones and joints.
The guys have enjoyed the variety that Florida has to offer. The Keys were amazing, with the blue/green water, sea life and water birds, and interesting people. The Everglades were challenging with the snakes and gators but also very peaceful. Central Florida has gorgeous woods, creeks, rivers, and very friendly people in the small towns!
The guys were thrilled to meet a couple who had kayaked all the way around Florida, from Jacksonville around the southern tip to Pensacola in the west, and are now hiking southbound on the Florida Trail. The two groups crossed paths just a few days ago and spent part of a day off together. You can read about this couple's adventure at www.sunshineexpedition.com. Chuck and Old Drum have also had the opportunity to hike with and meet several other hikers.
Chuck has a new appreciation for hiking in Florida. We don't have the mountains that other parts of the country can boast, but the scenery here is unique and beautiful. They've been surprised at the amount of wildlife they've seen. Lots of deer, as well as armadillo, wild boar, many many birds, a large ray in the Keys, and much more. We encourage your readers to do some hiking in Florida. I think they would be pleasantly surprised.
As of now, we're thinking we'll "flip-flop" to the start of the AT at Springer Mtn. after Chuck finishes the Florida Trail. We can do the Alabama section together in November or December when it's cold in the North Country! He needs to take care of some things around the home front for 2 or 3 weeks in March, then we're off to start the AT. We still plan to skip up at some point...not sure exactly when or where...to start southbounding from the northern terminus of the IAT in Newfoundland. We are SO looking forward to hiking in Canada!!!! You and several other hikers from Maine and Nova Scotia that have contacted us are so kind to offer your help. I don't know if our "southern hospitality" can match your kindness and generosity.
Chuck Norris and Tigger
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