Q21

My last post was about 20 questions I’ve been asked.  

I was asked a 21st question today, one that I hadn’t been asked previously. It was from my accountant. He is not an outdoors guy. Here it is:

Q: So, this hike you are doing – is it some sort of organized tour?

A. No. 

In fact, the way today went, it’s more like the height of UNorganized.  My ride to Springer Mountain has a family emergency, and won’t be able to get away for a road trip to Georgia.  So I’ve spent the day figuring out how I will get to Georgia.  With a dog.  That’s the monkey wrench. If I traded him for a Chihuahua, then I could bring my new mini-dog on a plane in a pet carrier.  I could even trade for a short haired Chihuahua and eliminate a lot of fur and mud.  Heck, I might as well order up a light colored dog so the ticks would show up more easily.  

But I guess I’m stuck transporting a 45 lb, longish furred, mostly black, border collie.  Luckily some friends and acquaintances have volunteered to assist with the task.  

I could have – still can – rent a car. But the logistics are tougher than it looks. I’d still need a ride to Syracuse early in the morning. And if I leave as planned on a Friday there’s no dawdling permitted en route. Because all the car rental places near Dahlonega have short hours on Saturday and none hours on Sunday. I just don’t think I could drive 14 hours nonstop solo.  So I’d have to arrive on Saturday. Then I’d have to find a hotel.  The first place I called required 3 calls just to get a yes or no reply to the question: “Do you allow dogs?” No one knew. The answer was no. 

Then I’d need a cab from the car rental place to the hotel. Followed by a shuttle the next day to the AT.  

So hats off to JB and AG for their transportation offers!

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Comments 1

  • Karla : Mar 1st

    Hope to see you on the trail! It sounds like we’ll be leaving about the same time…I’m getting excited! Glad you were able to work out your transportation.

    Reply

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