Grasonville to Denton; Distance = 20.5 Miles; People Met = 13+
As we get near the end more people appear to be familiar with the American Discovery Trail. That was true for Mike and Josh who, up until last year, ran a B&B in Queenstown that ADT hikers starting out often stayed at. Debbie McNeil of Tuckahoe State Park was aware as well, and enthused about us coming by near the end of the journey. The next morning at the State Park we were just about to head out when Gus came running over to meet us because he assumed we were doing the trail.
Josh and Mike used to host ADT travelers at their former B&B
Ranger Debbie McNeil at Tuckahoe State Park
CJ, Gus and Trey
We entered the town of Ridgely later that Sunday morning. Just as we were going by the Ridgely United Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m. we noticed people entering for a church service. We decided on the spur of the moment to drop in.
Jake Thomas greeted us enthusiastically and steered us towards a large room at the back of the sanctuary where we left our packs. The room was where the kids gathered during the church service. Soon after Pastor Joe Smith came up to us to give us a big welcome, as did his wife, Dolly.
Dolly and Pastor Joe Smith in front of the Ridgely UMC
I know what some of you might be thinking: churches always greet strangers enthusiastically because they want new members. First, that’s not always true. Second, it’s pretty clear early on, particularly when we have our full packs, that we are not staying around. One thing that added to the Smith’s enthusiasm is there own passion for hiking. Jake has been working hard at overcoming shyness and being an enthusiastic greeter, something we learned when Pastor Joe and Dolly took us out to lunch after the service.
The theme of the service was to care; my announcement to the congregation about our mission went well with that theme. Afterwards, the head of the Sunday School came up to us offering all sorts of goodies, but we already had full packs. We also talked to yet one more couple during the trip that had met or hosted Jerry and Karen, the couple near our age who started the American Discovery Trail in 2010 and, after a couple of winter’s off, should be finishing this year.
Other Photos
Nikki and Laura give us a cheerful send-off from Best Western
Tony Giaimo wanted to know our story
Jeff on the far left would like to do something similar to our journey someday
Just wanted to say hi, and let you know how much i enjoyed talking with you in Ridgely.
Tony
Thanks for checking in, Tony. I always appreciate that. We enjoyed meeting you as well.
Kirk