I hope that thing growing on my face becomes sentient, because there aren't many people on the trail to talk to anymore. I'm in a bubble where I'm days ahead of a few thru-hikers and a few days behind several. I seem to be catching up to some, though, based on when they signed various shelter logs. I still have a long way to go, so I'm sure I'll see them eventually.
(To Thumper and Sixgun: If you're curious, I think I'm gaining on Bobwhite and the British couple. I expect to see them on the trail someday.)