We hiked our butts off yesterday to make it to Dicks Creek Gap in time to hitch to a nearby hostel: The Blueberry Patch.  Along with unmatched hospitality (the owner did our laundry for free himself) they also are known for having the best breakfast on the Trail (says Backpacker Magazine). Indeed, we were treated to pancakes with blueberry syrup, sausage, eggs, hashbrowns, biscuits with gravy, plus juice and coffee. Everything, including a shower and bunk for the night, was free of charge, but they accept donations and of course everyone gives some.  It was a wonderful place.
After breakfast the owner drove us into town where I had reservations at the Hiawassee Inn.  Stew and I just got done resupplying and packing our food for the next 4 days (enough to get us to Franklin, NC) and now we're relaxing and just wasting time until we head to the all-you-can-eat buffet.  I KNOW I'll need a nap after that!  If we feel up to it we might walk down to the Holiday Inn where our friends Shortcut, Iron Will, and BC are staying and sit in the hot tub awhile.  Tomorrow we get back to the trail about 9:30 and should make it across the NC state line before we make camp.  
The pictures included are from the Blueberry Patch and Hiawassee. 

Thinking of you all!  Till next time...

Stew says:   Blueberry patch was amazing!  Great shower there and awesome bunk house.  Best nights rest I've had so far.  Glad we caught up to some friendly faces.  Taking it easy on the knee right now and just medicated myself with a little Sam Adams.  Thank you to everyone for the comments!