Mile 208. Forgiveness.

Okay, Great Smoky Natl Park: I forgive you.

The rain cleared up to deliver a stunning day with GORGEOUS views! Twelve cruisey miles shared with super fun trail pals - thank you, I needed that!

Everyone was in good spirits today - especially with the trail magic offered at the NC / TN border. Check out how dirty our hands are - ewwww!!!

Gratefully, my longtime Team Z IRONMAN friend Nicolas Nouvel came out to Newfound Gap with a warm change of clothes. He and his sweet wife are hosting me this evening for a hot meal, long shower, and overdue laundry in their new Asheville, NC home.

Mark Stevenson also was able to complete the Asheville Team Z mini reunion. So much fun to catch up with these crazy endurance-everything pals! I now have a longer bucket list thanks to their inspiration!