Slow start this morning. I woke up with a lot of chest congestion. I'm guessing it's from the night hiking and profuse sweating in cold temperatures. Only a short hike to the road today so that I can get a hitch into town.
I descended down the mountain listening to Radiohead's Moon Shaped Pool. It helped pass the time. All I can think about is not hiking, having a beer, and seeing my partner. Our group sort of scattered and left camp at different times this morning, and I think I'm one of the last in the pack.
About 4 hours later, I got to the highway and saw Big Daddy standing on the side of the highway. He had been there for 30 minutes before I arrived and couldn't get a hitch. I told him the trick to getting a hitch is smiling and not looking like a murderer. I stuck my thumb out and got us the first car that past. Our hitch was two college professors from UCR that were on their way to the Kern River for some day rafting. They looked like experts. It was a long 40 mile ride to town. It's extremely hot in this valley.
Sunburnt and at a scummy bar
Foreging for food
We got to the RV park where everyone would be and showered, did laundry, and headed to the bar, and then Taco Bell. Tomorrow Jessica is going to drive up and see me. I'm excited for that.
Never again