4/24

Today is a rest day, otherwise known in hiker lingo as taking a zero. Knowing I don't have to do anything feels good. I get up early and got breakfast in town with a few of the the guys. Damascus is so small but has quite the allure about the simplicity of the town. Everything one could want is located within a mile walking distance. And bike rentals are located all over the place for any who would wanna ride the Virginia creeper trail. After breakfast I sit around with some friends who organize their packs in a picnic area located just outside the hostel we had stayed in. Sunny and clear I read and then fall asleep in the grass. I wake after a bit and split a pizza and some snacks with a friend. There is a carefree nature to every zero hiker that I pass. Knowing our bodies won't be pummeled by repetitive beating and heat is enough to make anyone a little lax I infinitely. I love moving and seeing the trail one a day to day basis, but towns like this make it hard to go back to my gypsy like pack life. 

Later in the afternoon everyone kinda does their own thing. I split off and read and write in a quiet restaurant for a few hours finishing one book and beginning another. Around 4 toast and big spoon walk in. They had been playing on the street and the owner of the restaurant asked them if they wanted to play a gig in the very place where I was reading that evening. They said yes and after spreading the word to friends we have made we all gather into the tiny hole in the wall place enjoying good live music from me duo and great food. Seeing is little place packed is an idea of what the whole town will look like when trail days hits in mid may. I am excited at the thought of returning and just enjoying a weekend dedicated to the trail. 

After the set finishes the entire group rallies to visit a local brewery and the remainder of the evening is spent sitting enjoying craft beer. I fade out to my hostel later than I have stayed up this entire trip. I wasn't particularly tired. Just kinda blah. The day was fun but there still was a part of me that felt as though I let the day go to waste somewhat. I could have hiked out of town a few miles but of well. Tomorrow for sure.