Day 87- A Heavenly Scent (definitely not from us)

The morning started off a little shakily because I decided to test my issue and not wear the compression brace or apply KT tape or take ibuprofen.  I made it 3 miles before deciding that I do indeed need all those things, which is good to know - I wanted to be sure that what I’ve been doing is necessary.

Nick and I again met every 5 miles or so just to be sure I was doing ok.  During one of our breaks, when I was looking at the map and feeling like we should be putting in more miles, he reminded me, for the hundredth time, that we need to go slow so I have a chance to heal, that we planned for this, and that we should enjoy these easy days while we can.

With Nick’s words in mind, I did my best to not worry about how slow I’m hiking or how behind we’re getting and simply marveled at the scenery as I carefully made my way along the trail.  

We walked on the spine a lot, which was wonderful despite the steep inclines and declines that went along with it.  The weather was absolutely beautiful, too - no rain at all, not even the threat of it.  I loved the views and just being on the trail.  There was also a heavenly scent in the air that I didn’t want to stop breathing in - it was akin to lilacs.  There is nothing like walking up a mountain and being rewarded with beautiful views AND a wonderful scent.  

Nick is in the picture - look to the right

including this picture only because this is where the most beautiful scent was carried on the breeze, like lilacs (undoubtedly the white flowers on the hillsides) - it was heavenly

Towards the end of the day, I heard a crashing sound in the forest - it sounded like a rockslide but could also have been a tree (or two or twenty) crashing down.  The sound was far away and yet still impressive.  I wonder what it was.  

At the end of the day, our biggest dilemma was whether to camp by the water we had planned to camp by or go on another 1.5 miles.  Staying by the water meant camping right next to the trail (which I hate doing and feel is bad form); going another 1.5 miles meant a good campsite but dry camping, which meant carrying 3 liters of water up a steep incline.  It was a tough call for me, but ultimately I chose to stay with the water and not-so-great campsite.  I figure why put any more strain on my body than I need to.  Plus, this way I’ll be in bed early (before 7), which can only help with the healing process.  

Along the trail:

Nick saw a juvenile moose on the trail this morning, but it ran off before I got there

looking back at Parkview Mountain and where we camped last night - it seems so far away

crazy flowers

I loved seeing all the purple flowers blanketing the mountainside - it doesn’t look as impressive in the picture but trust me, it was

I enjoyed the wildflowers and Nick walking by in the distance

Nick had a little friend on his hat and I was dismayed when he brushed it away. Poor thing, it just wanted a rest

Camp:

Nick repaired a tear in the netting and he was impressed with how he perfectly lined up both sides of the tape and didn’t get any bubbles in it. I figured I’d take a picture so we can always remember how awesome he is. :)

we are right next to the trail, which is poor etiquette, but that’s ok- only Thighclops and Steelhead walked by and I don’t think they minded