Hiking for Habitat Day 8, March 30

March 30 (28 miles)

28ish miles to a Food Lion in Havelock. Today I remembered why I decided to hike across the state. Nothing makes me feel more alive than waking up in the middle of the woods, eating a big bowl of instant coffee-infused oatmeal and walking to get warm. My allergies are attacking in full force. With puffy eyes and runny nostrils, I pushed forward. Every moment through the cypress swamps and shrubby bogs was a true joy. White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, gray squirrels, ospreys and woodpeckers were abundant. I kept my eyes peeled for other wildlife, thinking I might get lucky and see a black bear, snake, or even an alligator, but not today. No worries, I hike on. The trail passed over a bunch of long rickety boardwalks and even opened up to a wide view of the Neuse River. Needless to say, it was a good day along a beautifully quiet and scenic stretch of trail. The trail spit me out of the woods and back onto the road, but I felt recharged and motivated once again. To top off a great day, my uncle picked me up as I was eating pie at a food lion and took me back to his house in New Bern. My Uncle Tim and Aunt Kim provided a loving home fit with a shower, laundry, and pizza. What else could someone ask for?