White Mountains Lodge and Hostel, NH — When I arrived on the hostel’s doorstep, I knew I was near the end of my rope. I just didn’t know how close to the end I actually was. Not only were my knees screaming, but I also had a full blown head cold. I also couldn’t stand the taste of food and had not eaten anything significant in 24 hours. In short, I was a mess. I just didn’t realize it.
The first night and morning I consumed only water and cola in preparation for sleeping all day. On the second night I still could only sample my dinner. I theorized that my aversion to food might be the result of having encountered a dirty dish somewhere in the hut system.
In short, I need a space and time for respite and recuperation.
As I’ve noted before, it’s impossible to compare hostels one to another. There are too many independent variables. It is fair to say that this time, I was at the right place when I needed it.
There is a slight comparison. White Mountains Lodge is simIlar to Vermont’s Green Mountain House in so far as each is a converted house with similar amenities and a home style feel. Each host is a wonderful person.
I couldn’t have found a better place. White Mountains is a welcoming and accommodating home away from home. Marni, the owner, is a wonderfully attentive and cheerful host who understands long distance hikers and their unique predicament. She should know. Her son hiked the trail two years ago. She and her assistant Eric helped in every way.
In all it’s taken six days to recover. The trip down to see my friend Katie was also a significant part of that process. Tomorrow we head north again. I’m fit and looking forward to it.
About now I’m sure glad I was willing to say uncle.
The next set of blogs should come in a few days.
Looks like a good place to recuperate for a few weeks… 🙂
I agree … 🙂
Walk on with hope in your heart and you’ll never walk alone …
Viel Glück!
Danke meine freund!
Gosh, you poor thing! I can’t imagine how bad it would be to be sick on the trail! Yikes. You are one tough cookie. I’d have packed it in (no pun intended) the second day of my cold. Actually, come to think of it, I’d have probably packed it in the second day, period. As in the second day of the beginning of the hike a year ago! You are a fighter, Jim. Must be your military training. Hang tough! Those of us living in the land of bug-free a.c. and Comcast definitely respect you!!!
No pain, no rain, no Maine is how the mantra goes. It’s all part of the journey.