We had a fun afternoon exploring the State Park in Manchester. The path went along two rivers along old stone walls. We enjoyed the many views of the rivers’ waterfalls.

Falls at Old Stone Fort State Park

We had a fun couple of days with our new friend Mark in Sewanee before moving on to Manchester. Manchester KOA was one of our favorites for hospitality. The host family along with Carol and Bill made us feel right at home. Jack enjoyed play time with our new dog friend, Max while dog Reuben watched alongside. Thank you Carol for all of your friendly help and support!

Downtown Manchester

After finding Jack, everything changed – for the better. We have met more people and made more connections through Jack than we could have imagined. Our new friends, Mickey and Bill gave us the warmest hospitality in Jasper at their Shellmound Campground. We camped along the water and enjoyed some sunny fun.

Shellmound Campground with Mickey and Jack

We found this little guy about a week ago.  Without any indication of where he might have come from, we have decided to keep him.  It has been a very rewarding experience.

We survived Ruby Falls and had a blast!

We enjoyed the sights of Lookout Mountain on Friday May 4 including picturesque views and the breathtaking 145 ft. waterfall, Ruby Falls located 1120 feet under Lookout Mountain.   Pyar walked along the foothills of the mountain the day before, it was fun to see the mountain from another vantage point.    After our awesome hour long underground tour, we got to go up the tower of the castle entrance to the falls and got this great shot of Pyar enjoying his day off.

Pyar atop Lookout Mountain

Pyar Crosses First State Line

Pyar walked across his first state line Thursday, May 3rd to a cheering audience member.  “It feels good, we are making progress and now crossing a stateline is one of our milestones, I’m happy” stated an elated Pyar Anderson.  Later that day, Pyar walked back into Georgia around Lookout Mountain for camping that evening.

Jack and Pyar at Talking Rock Park

I met Jack Fussell acrosstheland2013.wordpress.com our first day at Amicalola State Park.  In fact, we met three times along the 600 steps at the majestic falls.  Jack spoke to me each time with a spark that you see in folks who know a little something.  It didn’t take me long into our third encounter that I realized what that was – making a difference in people’s lives.  He wanted to connect and our timing was perfect.   Jack is preparing to run across America in February of 2013 along a similar path as the one we are on currently.  Jack’s days consists of training for this adventure by running up and down Amicalola falls 604 steps most days alternating with running along trails in the same park and to and from the park and in his neighborhood, to his daughter’s house – you name it!  Jack is that affirming breath of fresh air that speaks of doing and being – being in this world for a cause.  He is an incredible inspiration and now a dear friend.  In February he will run from Skidaway State Park in Georgia to Monterey California raising awareness and money for Alzheimer’s “one step at a time”.   We plan to be there in Monterey and in spirit through all those many steps.