Slow And Steady
Gerry and her good friend, Jane Lee, embarked on their journey on April 23, 2013, and have not looked back since. It is usual for hikers to have a trail name, and Gerry gave herself the moniker “Inchworm” in honor of her leisurely pace on the trail. She brought a journal with her to keep track of everything she saw and experienced on the journey; before departing, she wrote, “This has been a long time in the making, and we are both excited and a little scared to begin this adventure!” The two nature enthusiasts began their journey in the middle of the path and worked their way up north to Mount Katahdin, where they ended up. A long walk through nature allowed them to take in all of the stunning sights in their full glory, and Gerry made notes about the vibrantly flowering flowers, the peaceful sounds of nature, and the exciting experience of walking for hours on end. “Squirrel corn, bluets, spring beauties, Jack in the Pulpits, and a plenty of May apples!” she exclaimed in her letter.
A Plan That Wasn’t Expected
Jane and Gerry made an excellent hiking team. He and his friend covered a lot of territories together and assisted each other across the path. Each time one of them needed to go to the bathroom, they would hide behind a tree while the other stood to watch. Jane, on the other hand, was compelled to abandon their journey after a family situation caused her to do so two months into it. Jane was concerned about leaving Gerry on her own and attempted to persuade Gerry to accompany her back home, but Gerry was adamant about continuing on the route. Jane was relieved when Gerry agreed to accompany her. She got by pretty nicely for the first three weeks. Despite the fact that George was still traveling to her at least twice a week to bring her fresh food and supplies, on July 21 she finally arrived at the Poplar Ridge Shelter, a traditional Adirondack style lean-to less than 200 miles from the trail’s conclusion.
