Today was one of highs and lows. Temperature was pushing 90; went up hill 2329 ft (according to my app. Gaia); only had some trail mix to eat since the store I was counting on was closed; and when I reached my destination and I saw the sign: CLOSED, I panicked inside (no food, no stores, no energy, but I did have another quart of water or so). So after regaining my wits, googling, etc. it turned out that the Nacimiento Resort was indeed not closed for the season and was ahead another mile (half of it uphill). HOWEVER, a lady at their store told me on the phone that they closed at 4:30! Needless to say, I didn't make it! Frantic calls at their gate caught someone who agreed work late and to give me a lodge (a real spoiler) and by now, the store and restaurant were closed. But as good fortune would have it, the manager of the restaurant was coming through the gate--not only did he ferry me around, but he and his lady friend fixed me a huge meal and delivered it a half hour later along with 3 quarts of Gatorade and water and power bars and coffee for tomorrow morning. It all nearly overwhelmed me! I'm counting my blessings. Part of the meal will be tomorrow's breakfast and I'll be in good shape for the 90 deg day 18 miles and the 11th mission. These are some favorite pics starting with a wakeup from the campground deer and ending with a shot from my lodge overlooking Lake Nacimiento.
