The Buzz… From Beeman…

“Quentin” (Beeman) would like to thank everyone who has helped him in his endeavor to hike the Appalachian Trial.

He would like in particular to thank 3 (three) groups of people who have greatly assisted him since his arrival in the USA.

Trail Angel # 1 – Belinda Atkins.  Belinda is a good friend of Dr. Pat Swift one of the lectures at the MUA Bricklin, Nevis.  I had never met her before but at Pat Swifts request Belinda met me at the Atlanta airport, late, took me to her home, arranged and helped me to visit REI (outfitters); buy my Verizon cell phone/camera/P.S. and also the bank where she was known so a cheque could be cashed.  She then drove me to the start of the AT.   Round trip from the Atlanta home of about 120 miles.   All this out of the kindness of her heart.

Trail Angels # 2 – Wayne and Diane Nelson.  Parents of Chris Nelson a Peace Corps Volunteer in ST. Kitts.  Again, I’d never met Wayne & Diane but at their Son’s insistence contacted them on arrival in Hiawassee Ga. There was nothing the Nelson’s couldn’t do for me and I greatly appreciated the comfort of their lovely home.  It took me four days to hike from Neels Gap to Hiawassee, and just ½ an hour for Wayne to run me back to the specialist outfitter at Neels Gap where I could buy a much smaller more efficient down sleeping bag which saved much space and weight over the one I had.  Thank you so much Wayne and Diane.

Trail Angels # 3 – I was determined to attend Patrick Johnson’s Graduations from Clemson, especially as I was quite near at the time.  By near I mean about 150 miles from the AT down to Clemson.  This would never have been possible without the kind & thoughtful help of Jim and Faith Grieger who collected me from the AT, took me to their Ashville home, and later down to Clemson…. And much, much more besides.  I stayed with the Griegers for 4 days.  Some readers will know Jim’s daughter Danielle on Nevis her partner Jazzique, and their daughters Jazzell and Skyla.

To Belinda, Wayne, Diane, Jim and Faith:  Very, Very Many Thanks indeed.  And Patrick… CONGRATULATIONS, your Father would be immensely proud of you!!!!