August 28
Distance: zero
Lunch: just snacks (A+)
Dinner: J – crispy chicken sandwich (A+), A – chicken tenders and corn dog (A)
Jason discovered something important today: the distance to the next stop is not as far as he had planned. This is wonderful news and much better than learning the opposite. It also means that the four day carry at ~21 mi/day will be three day carry at ~19 mi/day. Why not take another day in Etna and finish all our chores? We still hadn’t sorted our resupply box or repaired the tent. And, we could sure use another day of rest. Hopefully, we don’t forget how to hike.
Throughout the day, we unpacked and reshuffled our packs, cleaned more gear, did more laundry, and grazed on snack food. It was a productive but laid back day. We sent home some gear and clothing we didn’t need. Jason sewed the tent, his glove, and Alex’s gaiter. Alex played with her pack straps and solar charging system. And, we sorted through the resupply box to Jodi’s amusement.
We’ll go back tomorrow, we promise!