On Saturday morning,May 10th, Jim left me a message saying that he had decided to come home.  I had very mixed feelings about this and wanted to be with him, to talk it over with him and understand what was contributing to this decision.  I remembered that sparkle in his eyes...just talking about his dream.  He was picked up from the trail on Saturday afternoon and spent the night with his brother, Stuart, and Stuart's partner, David, at David's beautiful mountain place. 

I can't tell you how good it was to see him on Sunday afternoon of Mother's day--to hug him and know that he was safe and sound!  He looked so good.  He hiked 360 miles in those 6 weeks!!!

We've talked lots about our varied feelings and needs, and Jim will share more about what this is all like for him.  I am disappointed for him but also know that it is REALLY good to have him home with me again.

We went up to Trail Days this past weekend in Damascus, Virginia.  Jim was able to connect with most of the really neat people he connected with on the trail, and I was able to meet them.  What fun!  It was obvious that they really cared for him and would miss him.  I wish all of them safety, fun, awe of the beauty, and fortitude for the journey!  And guess what, Jim may go back for parts of the trail....and I hope to do some of it with him.

Thanks to you all for your support, love, and prayers during this time.
 

I posted a new photo to PeoplemetalongtheTrail.