As first days go I doubt I could have expected anything better than yesterday. I was joined by my father, my stepmother, my friends Scott and Sue, as well as Sue's parents and aunt at the starting line.
The expedition began in an ominous fashion, with dark clouds and a bumbling trip around Henlopen trying to find the famed bunker at the starting line. I then managed to "lose" my camera in one of my many pockets.
Fortunately, we eventually found the beginning of the trail, the weather cleared by late morning, and my camera showed up in the pocket it had been residing in the whole time I was freaking myself out needlessly about its absence. Scott and Dad both joined me on the trail for the day, a simple traipse through flat land from Cape Henlopen to Milton.
We enjoyed a fabulous lunch at Taste of Italy in the picturesque seaside community of Lewes along the way. The kind of fresh, delicious ingredients they serve are unparalleled in Greenville - my sandwich was perhaps the best I have ever eaten. I also got called pal about eight times by the guy at the register, so I think I made my first friend.
The remaining thirteen miles between Lewes and Milton were fairly uneventful. I know how much I already miss the company of Scott and Dad, having them with me for company and conversation made the distance melt away. My stepmother will be joining me today for my Easter walk.
We were rewarded by our arrival in Milton with the sight of Irish Eyes, a lovely pub where we congratulated each other on a great day with a tasty pint. The rest of the crew met up with us there and after a shower at the hotel we headed to Rehoboth Beach and enjoyed a flight of brews and a fabulous dinner at the Dogfish Head restaurant there. I want to thank everyone who joined me for Day One on the American Discovery Trail, your presence eased my apprehension and made the first miles very memorable ones.
16 miles/16 total miles
