Buckeye Trail Hiking

I've recently gotten back into hiking (mainly for my health).  I went along Ohio's Buckeye Trail for a little while today and took some pictures.  Enjoy!

 

If anyone has any information, I'm curious as to the source of mysterious blue wood that I always find along the Buckeye Trail.  Thanks for any help!  The second to last picture here is of the blue blaze that signifies the Buckeye Trail.  I'm looking for information on the third to the last picture, and the piece in my hand at the end of the third row.