Thanks to the hospitality of Uncle Tim and Aunt Melba, we were able to include a thrilling hike on Grandfather Mountain to an already-thrilling trip to North Carolina for Matthew & Amanda Wilkes’ wedding.

Robert & Kendalyn had hiked this way before. They gave the rest of us an idea of what to expect. James served as a fantastic guide, estimating distances and travel times while staying in contact with Brigade B on the other end of the rugged ridge. The six of us all coached each other with tidbits of hiking knowledge, took shifts carrying the backpack and spurred one another on with encouraging words.

Thankfully, creek water was available near the half-way point which James made drinkable with the steripen. Another reason to give thanks was the protection with which God shielded us at every step. With His blessing, a strenuous hike becomes … a walk in the park.