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June 13, 2003. Friday.

Gotta Finish these Journal Entries

Stopped at: Ridgetop vista point, mile 412.8   Miles today: 19.4

Today started late as I tried to get out of camp by 9:00 am when Jared and Glenn cruised down the trail. They decided this water source was a good place to stop and have tea or gatorade. Having them around only slowed my packing because we were chatting and joking around. By 9:50 am, I was finally ready to leave with a granola bar in had ready to eat for breakfast. Good thing I filtered all the water I needed last night; otherwise, I would have left camp further tardy.

I passed a few groups of day hikers while heading to Cooper Canyon campground. Even with a late start, I wanted to stop for a couple of hours at the campground to finish journal entries before I forgot important thoughts on those particular days. I may have finished one entry before Glenn and Jared stopped by. They stayed for an hour and we joked around. After they left I stayed for another hour slowly writing.

These 2 guys absolutely amazed me at how well they got along even after hiking together for days. If I had to hike with someone for an extended period of time, I'd probably pay a bear to kidnap my hiking partner. Even though I didn't accept the food they offered, I was humbled by their charitable act of offering their drink and food. They admit at times, they had their differences, but true friends learn to overcome adversities. Their company was very enjoyable, but I feared I would pass them and never see them again. They were examples of hikers who make the trail enjoyable.

to be written...