Maineiacs cross through Vermont, but New Hampshire looms ahead

Uno and Dewey continue their trek northward, today crossing the Connecticut River into Hanover, New Hampshire; crossing off yet another state, with only two left to go. (But over 400 miles!) Vermont was a great state for the AT, and it was wonderful to be home at last. After spending a zero day with our friends the Shafers' in Williamsville, we resumed the trail in Danby.
The weather dried out and so did the trail, as the mud puddles became smaller and less threatening. The climb up Killington felt like climbing a real mountain again. We had a perfectly clear day with great views into Vermont and New Hampshire. We found it especially rewarding, as we found the summit snack bar open on top... so much for powdered hummus. The prospect of cheeseburgers, french fries, and ice cream bars proved too alluring for us. We continued the hike to Sherburne Pass, and stayed the night at the Inn on the Long Trail. This spot is legendary with the thru-hiking crowd, and offered comfortable accommodations as well as great food and a bar. The place was built in 1939 as one of Vermont's first ski lodges.
Departing back on the trail from there we quickly reached 'Maine Junction', the true juncture of the Long Trail, which continues north to the Canadian border, and the AT which turns east to Hanover. So, here one has to decide if they want to go to Maine, or Canada; not much of a choice in my opinion as Maine wins hands down! We had no further sojourns into civilization for the rest of the hike through Vermont, spending the next three nights on the trail. Going east-west, we crossed many ridges with a lot of climb, but found the trail easier than in the Green Mountains. We did a little swimming in the White River as we crossed yesterday in West Hartford.
Today we take a bus southward to Concord to visit family for two days, then resume the trail on Saturday with Uncle Jay, who's not a Maine-iac at all... We'll have to solve that problem later. Let's hope for continued good weather through the Whites. More updates to come.