50 2597.6 8/3/2021 misty, foggy, breezy, intermittent sun. Today was tough. It was either climb or descend. The first two climbs and descents were ok, but I was starting to tire. Also my pace was slower so I wasn’t making much progress. The third climb did me in and I sent a message to Justin saying today was tough. I was listening to The Nightingale book to help pass the time. The trail was boring. Nothing to see. Tree, trail and not much else. I had loaded myself with water and that wasn’t helping. About an hour later Justin appears. What!? I lost it and cried. He was such a welcome sight. He said we had about 4 miles to go. It also included two smaller climbs. It took forever, but we finally made it. A tough tough day. Mentally I was down. Physically I was drained. We sat under the shade of the Jeep’s awning for a while. I asked that we take a zero day in Helena to get my head straight. But first I would slack pack tomorrow then take this much needed break. In time I got up and prepared for tomorrow’s slack pack, put up my tent, and did other daily hiking chores. Dinner was Carnitas Tacos, tortilla chips and bean dip. Justin was my savior today appearing unexpectedly and helping through a difficult day. Thank you dear son!
