Our First 50: Laissez les Bons Temps Rouler

Our first week was a blast!

We’ve covered about 50 miles and are now into Massachusetts. Connecticut was absolutely gorgeous and nicer than expected. Very lush with lots of amazing views and some spectacular waterfalls with idyllic swimming holes.

Falls Village, Conn.

Due to our low daily mileage, we have been a little challenged at times to make it to the next campsite or shelter. This has led to some memorable nights, including one night we camped in town behind a restaurant called Toymakers Cafe. They allow camping for free and they made an amazing breakfast the next morning. It was right in the middle of a charming little 18th century town called Falls Village. We were able to grab a six-pack of beer and ordered a pizza for dinner. Pure heaven.

Salisbury, Conn.

The following day we hiked into Salisbury and we stayed at Maria’s house. Maria is 89 years old and has been allowing hikers to stay in her home forever. This might be her last year so we felt blessed to meet her. While staying at Maria’s we were able to meet up with some old friends who live in Connecticut. Thanks again Matt and Linda for making the drive over.
It was bittersweet saying goodbye to Sue the next morning. Thankfully Kaya will be with me for the rest of June, which has helped keep my mind occupied, but I miss Sue already.
We seem to be in a little bubble of flip-flippers, most of whom started in Harpers Ferry. We’ve had fires the last two nights and last night we ended up with eight of us hanging out sharing food, including  Jiffy Pop and pizza made over the fire.

Meals

Kaya and I grabbed a clove of garlic in our last town so last night we made pesto pasta with chicken and fresh garlic. Another night we cooked rice and made burritos with flour tortillas, rice, chicken, green pepper, and cheese.

Homeless and Happy

Tonight we’re stealth camping behind a garden center outside Great Barrington, Mass., and we’re planning on stopping in town tomorrow for a resupply.
This week coming up includes a night at the infamous Upper Goose Pond cabin. They make banana pancakes for the hikers every morning and they have canoes and fishing gear we can borrow. Plus we can go swimming. We’re hoping to arrive early in the day, otherwise we might just spend two nights.
 
Let the good times roll!
Cheers,
Mr. Maps

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Comments 3

  • Miggie Hernandez (schiele group) : Jun 11th

    What a wonderful experience you are living , and how beautiful the places you have gone, meeting new and old friends thats a blessing for you all. Take care looking forward to many more pictures and stories of the place and people you have me along the way. take care

    Miggie Hernandez 🙂

    Reply
  • Sue Monsen : Jun 13th

    So none of my pics made the blog?!? Did I miss the editors deadline? In case you can’t tell, this is Sue…the other half; back home, working, taking care of Monty (loveable family member with four legs) and rehabbing the house while Paul is away! Seriously though…looking forward to reading your next blog and seeing more pictures! Have fun!!!

    Reply
  • Jackie parker : Jun 17th

    So cool to meet you and Kaya, you make a great team! Take it easy and enjoy all the beauty the trail shows you! Hike on!!!
    Jackie and Bob

    Reply

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