When my parents came to visit during my 1973 thru-hike, my dad took this photo of my mom saying goodbye at a road crossing south of Port Clinton. (Note the plastic milk jug, true high-tech). I walked away with tears streaming down my face feeling very alone. If you read THRU: An Appalachian Trail Love Story, pay attention to how Linda’s mom treats her. Trail mom’s are the best trail angels. Stay vertical, y’all. Keep walkin’. (Photo by Dick Judy, all rights reserved).