The last state

Well, we've made it to Maine, the last state. I say we because I have joined Peeps for the final 2 weeks of her journey. I came out last weekend and we got on the trail Monday morning in NH, but after 16.5 miles we came across the state border in the middle of nowhere. We finished off with about 5 more miles for a huge 21.5 mile day. 20+ mile days have been hard to come by since she has hit the White Mountains. They are tougher than she imagined and she is getting pretty worn down. It was tough for me as well since my body isn't used to being on my feet that long and I'm not used to carrying 30+ pounds on my back. The hills are insane out here too. They don't believe in switchbacks so 1000 vertical feet in a mile is a common occurance. Following the path of least resistance is pretty rare too so any mountain between here and there and we'll climb it. There are been some great views when you're not surrounded by miles of trees in every direction.
Unfortunately due to my poor planning we've had to set an unreasonable schedule in order to catch our flight back to Colorado and after 3 days of this torture we couldn't take it any longer. We hitched a ride into Andover, ME (Good luck finding it on a map) and spent the night at the Andover Guest House. Kasey has left with no pack and minimal supplies and I have stayed back to try and find transportation. I may rent a car or I'll get the innkeeper to drive me half way to the next town then call a place in the next town to pick up our gear so that I can finish the day with Kasey. I'm off to get some breakfast then start making some calls. Wish us luck because we'll need it.

Mike