It's been a tough hike so far. I picked up some evil upper respiratory infection. I could walk okay downhill but had zero stamina on uphills. Took a few rest days in Hiawassee, but it didn't help. Finally got too bad to hike at all and got off the trail at Deep Gap and came down to Ron haven's Budget Inn in Franklin. Went to a clinic yesaterday and got more anti-biotics. Stronger stuff this time. Still prety sick, but feeling a bit better. have eaten alomst nothing for three-four days, so maybe my weight will be down somewhat when I get back on the trail.

Doctor said not to get back on the trail for a "few days." His concern is that if I start hiking too soon, I will jsut catch something else because my body is a too weak.

So I will stay here at Haven's until Friday. Hopefully I will feel better and can continue my hike then.