Whoa! THAT was a REPORT!
I thought I'd read it in several sittings, but it was so much fun reading, that I read the whole thing. ...only when I got to the part about the Cliff bars, I got hungry, had to go and get a snack.
I laughed out loud when I read about the "third girl".
Your "hitting the wall" reminds me of my first Langley day hike: I took a tiny PB&J sandwich and an apple -- for the entire day! My buddy was hiking just a bit faster than my comfort level, and when we neared the summit, I totally flared out. After half an hour, I was able to summit, and then we made it back to the parking lot. Bob R's method of resting and eating/drinking something at least once an hour is a very good plan.
I share your dislike of Cliff bars. Haven't had one in years! Instead, I eat Fiber One and Nature Valley granola bars. Way more enjoyable.
A question: I assume you took the jacket off. How about the thermal long johns? Weren't you too warm?
Also, I made your pictures clickable, so people can see the full-size view if they like.
Best picture / caption:
(Uh, this would be your hero again)
OR
(Hide the women! Hide the children!)
Love the hi-tech hiking pole.
Great report, Uncle Bob!
